Elevate your macaroni and cheese game with this decadent recipe for French Onion Macaroni & Cheese. Combining the rich flavors of caramelized onions, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese, this dish offers a luxurious twist on a beloved comfort food favorite. With layers of savory goodness and a hint of sweetness from the onions, this mac and cheese recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Photo bypinterest

French Onion Macaroni & Cheese

Ingredients:

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

- 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, minced

- 1 bay leaf

- 1/4 cup dry sherry or white wine

- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon paste

- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

- 12 oz uncooked pasta shells

- 2 cups whole milk

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

- Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic, thyme leaves, bay leaf, dry sherry or white wine, beef bouillon paste, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove the bay leaf and set the mixture aside.

3. In a large pot, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

5. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Add the cooked pasta shells to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.

8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 

9. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by the caramelized onion mixture, and then the remaining pasta mixture. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.

10. Bake the French Onion Macaroni & Cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

11. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.

Photo bypinterest

Serving Your French Onion Macaroni & Cheese:

Serve this indulgent French Onion Macaroni & Cheese as a show-stopping main dish for a special occasion or as a comforting meal to warm your soul on a chilly evening. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for a delicious encore.

Embrace the luxurious flavors of French Onion Macaroni & Cheese and treat yourself to a culinary experience that marries the classic comfort of mac and cheese with the sophisticated allure of French onion soup. With its layers of savory goodness and melty cheese, this dish is a true indulgence that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of culinary bliss with this delectable mac and cheese creation.