Introduction
Are you ready to indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors that marries the classic comfort of mac and cheese with the rich, savory goodness of French onion soup? This French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is a treasure trove of melted cheeses, caramelized onions, and aromatic herbs, all baked to bubbly perfection. Imagine diving into a creamy, cheesy dish that captures the essence of both beloved recipes, creating a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes until the onions are beautifully caramelized and golden brown.
- Add the thyme to the onions and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the fragrant herb to release its aromatic oils.
- Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly to create a rich roux.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth and white wine, bringing this flavorful mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the balsamic vinegar, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for an additional 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole milk, Dijon mustard, Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy cheese mixture.
- Slowly pour the onion soup mixture into the cheese mixture, stirring well to combine all the delicious flavors.
- Add the cooked macaroni to your cheesy onion mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the luscious sauce.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of beef and chicken broth.
- If you like a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can be added to the cheese mixture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
Cooking Techniques
The magic of this recipe lies in the caramelization of the onions. This process not only brings out their natural sweetness but also adds a beautiful depth of flavor to the final dish. Be sure to stir the onions consistently as they cook to ensure even caramelization.
Creating a roux is essential for achieving a creamy base. This technique involves cooking flour with fat (in this case, butter) to form a paste that will thicken your sauce beautifully.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the white wine or use a non-alcoholic white wine alternative. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
This French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a dish to share with family and friends, and a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this creamy, cheesy delight is sure to please hearts and palates alike. Enjoy every delicious bite!