Name: French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 12 ounces elbow macaroni; 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

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Introduction

French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese blends the comforting creaminess of traditional mac and cheese with the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup. This casserole-style dish is indulgent and perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.

A close-up view of creamy macaroni and cheese in a black skillet, showing the top layer of golden-brown broiled cheese with spots of dark caramelized crust. The macaroni noodles beneath are covered in melted, stretchy cheese with a smooth, glossy texture, with small black pepper and herb specks scattered throughout. The cheese pulls up in gooey strands from the macaroni as if a woman's hand is lifting a portion. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface, adding a clean contrast to the warm dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces elbow macaroni
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a baking dish.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until caramelized, about 25–30 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and thyme.
Step 3: Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Stir in flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in vegetable broth, then milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in Gruyère, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Cook macaroni just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss the pasta with the cheese sauce and caramelized onions.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 8: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Caramelize onions slowly for the best depth of sweetness and flavor.
Use a blend of Gruyère, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses for a rich, complex taste and creamy texture.
Cook pasta slightly underdone to prevent mushiness after baking.
Try substituting penne, rigatoni, or shells for different pasta shapes.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the onions for an extra layer of flavor.
Mix sautéed mushrooms into the onions for a mushroom lover’s twist.
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy topping. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; bake directly from frozen, adding extra bake time as needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a cheesy baked macaroni dish in a black skillet. The macaroni pasta is coated thickly with melted cheese that stretches smoothly as it is lifted, showing gooey, creamy layers. The surface is golden brown with charred spots and small green herbs scattered on top. The pasta pieces are large and curved, with a creamy sauce binding them together, giving a rich texture. The background is softly blurred, making the food look warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, just make sure to use vegetable broth to keep it fully vegetarian.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to shred your own cheese for smoother melting and a creamier sauce.