Introduction
You’re in for a real treat with this delightful French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese! Combining the rich, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, this dish is perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends and family. Picture a bubbling, cheesy casserole topped with melty Gruyère and mozzarella, all infused with aromatic herbs and the sweetness of caramelized onions. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir gently to coat them in that luxurious, melting butter.
- Sprinkle the onions with salt and sugar, allowing them to cook slowly. Stir occasionally until they caramelize and turn a beautiful golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme to the pot, cooking for an additional minute until you can smell that fragrant, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen.
- Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and mix well to combine. Let it cook for another minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the beef and chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare for the next steps.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the luscious cheese sauce. Add half of the shredded Gruyère and mozzarella, stirring until everything is delightfully coated.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes or Tips
- For an added depth of flavor, consider using a splash of white wine along with the broths.
- If you prefer a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions.
- This dish can easily be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the ingredients and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven!
Cooking Techniques
Caramelizing onions is key to achieving that sweet, rich flavor in this dish. Take your time during this step, as it transforms the onions into a wonderfully flavorful base for your mac and cheese. Also, when adding the flour, make sure to combine it well to prevent lumps from forming in your cheese sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad or some crusty bread makes for a wonderful pairing with this rich mac and cheese.
Conclusion
This French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is a glorious fusion of two beloved comfort dishes. With its layers of flavor and creamy texture, it’s bound to be a hit in your home. So grab your loved ones, serve up a warm, cheesy portion, and enjoy the delightful conversations that come with this heartwarming meal!