If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent, look no further than French Onion Mac & Cheese Casserole. This delightful dish combines the gooey richness of macaroni and cheese with the sweet depth of caramelized onions, creating a symphony of flavors that’s sure to leave your taste buds dancing. Picture this: al dente elbow macaroni coated in a creamy cheese sauce that’s peppered with hints of beef broth and thyme, all layered under a bubbling, golden-brown crust. Not only is it a feast for the senses, but it also packs a hearty dose of comfort, making it the perfect family dinner or potluck centerpiece.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. Though it may seem like a gourmet offering, the preparation involves straightforward steps that anyone can master. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a dish that boasts a depth of flavor worthy of a five-star restaurant. The allure of caramelized onions adds a sophisticated twist that elevates this classic comfort food into something truly special. Serve it up on chilly evenings or at gatherings with friends; either way, you’re sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Mac & Cheese Casserole
- Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and cheese creates a deep, savory taste that’s utterly irresistible.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate comfort food with a unique twist that takes it beyond regular mac and cheese.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a perfect recipe for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this casserole fits perfectly.
- Hearty and Filling: This casserole is satisfying enough to be a standalone meal, filled with flavors that please everyone.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into creating this French Onion Mac & Cheese Casserole, it’s important to prep your kitchen and gather all your tools. Start by ensuring you have a large pot for boiling the macaroni and a skillet for caramelizing the onions. A spacious baking dish will be needed for the final casserole assembly. Make sure to have measuring cups and spoons handy, and a spatula for stirring. You will need a sharp knife to slice the onions; the thinner the slices, the better they will caramelize. Having a wooden spoon to stir the mixture will also make the process smoother. It’s recommended to have your oven preheated to 375°F. This allows for an even cooking process once you transfer your dish into the oven.
Ingredients
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. This step is essential to ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and reaches that beautiful bubbling stage.
Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
While the oven heats, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until it’s just al dente—meaning it should have a slight firmness to the bite. Drain the macaroni and set it aside. A subtle undercook here is crucial as the pasta will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions to the pan. Allow the onions to cook slowly, stirring often. This process takes about 25 minutes, during which the onions will transform from a sharp taste to a sweet, golden-brown delight. The key to great caramelized onions is patience; don’t rush or raise the heat too high, or they will burn instead of caramelizing.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions once they have reached that rich color. Stir this in to create a roux, cooking for about a minute more. Gradually pour in the milk and beef broth while continuing to stir tirelessly. This combination not only thickens the sauce but also brings additional depth to the flavor. Simmer the mixture until it thickens—this will take a few minutes. After achieving your desired consistency, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the melted Gruyere and cheddar cheeses, salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme until it all melds beautifully into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Transfer
Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese and onion mixture, ensuring that all pasta pieces are well-coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This layering will grant you that satisfying golden top layer.
Step 6: Bake
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the top becomes irresistibly bubbly and golden brown. This final step will create that beautiful crust that everyone loves about a good casserole.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This aids in setting the dish slightly, allowing for easier servings and enhancing the overall experience.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or even ground beef for extra protein.
- Vegetables: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Cooking Notes
- Caramelize the onions slowly for the most robust flavor—don’t rush the process.
- Always undercook your pasta slightly, as it will absorb some of the sauce during baking.
- For an added touch of flavor, consider toasting breadcrumbs with parmesan for a crispy topping.
- Let the casserole set for a touch before serving to help keep it structured.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled in vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Serve alongside crusty, warm bread for extra comfort.
Tips
- Use fresh thyme for the best flavor.
- Mix in a variety of cheeses to customize taste; gouda or mozzarella can be delightful substitutes.
- Prepare the casserole a day in advance and bake when ready to serve for easy entertaining.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat for a delicious meal any day.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 580 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
Can I substitute another type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyere and sharp cheddar provide a wonderful flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or fontina.
How do I store leftover casserole?
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap beef broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
What type of pasta can I use aside from elbow macaroni?
Shells or cavatappi work beautifully in this recipe, holding onto the rich cheese sauce.
Conclusion
There you have it! French Onion Mac & Cheese Casserole is an impressive yet simple dish that embodies comfort and flavor. Every mouthful delivers a creamy texture intertwined with the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, creating a dish that not only warms your belly but also warms your soul. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or entertaining friends, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your experiences or variations. And, above all, enjoy every cheesy bite!
Print
French Onion Mac & Cheese Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
French Onion Mac & Cheese Casserole combines the richness of macaroni and cheese with sweet caramelized onions for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Caramelize the onions in butter and olive oil over medium heat for about 25 minutes.
- Create a cheese sauce by adding flour to the onions, then whisk in milk and beef broth, simmering until thickened.
- Combine macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, caramelize onions slowly. Under cook your pasta slightly before mixing with sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Protein: 28 g