French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese Recipe
Introduction
French onion soup mac & cheese is a comforting twist on two classic favorites. This dish features rich caramelized onions and a creamy cheese sauce with hints of thyme and garlic, all mixed with tender elbow macaroni. The optional toasted baguette topping adds a perfect crispy finish.
Ingredients
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- Optional: French bread or baguette slices for toasting
- Extra grated cheese for topping (about ½ cup)
Instructions
- Step 1: Slowly cook the thinly sliced yellow onions in butter over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and develop a rich, sweet flavor.
- Step 2: Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat them evenly.
- Step 3: Gradually whisk in the beef or vegetable broth and half-and-half or heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Step 4: Add the minced garlic and dried thyme, then melt in the Gruyère and sharp white cheddar cheeses until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
- Step 6: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Step 7: Transfer the mac & cheese to an oven-safe dish. Top with extra grated cheese and toasted baguette slices if desired.
- Step 8: Broil briefly until the top is bubbly and golden brown, resembling the classic French onion soup crouton finish. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth without sacrificing flavor.
- Adding a splash of white wine to the caramelized onions enhances the depth of flavor.
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a fresh finish.
- Use a mix of cheeses such as fontina or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
Storage
Store leftover French onion soup mac & cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain a creamy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and caramelize the onions ahead of time. Store them separately from the pasta and assemble just before baking or serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese?
If Gruyère is unavailable, Swiss cheese, Emmental, or a mild fontina can be good substitutes that melt well and provide a similar nutty flavor.
PrintFrench Onion Soup Mac & Cheese Recipe
This French onion soup mac & cheese combines the rich, caramelized flavors of traditional French onion soup with creamy, cheesy macaroni. Caramelized onions create a deep, savory base that is blended with Gruyère and sharp white cheddar cheeses to form a luscious sauce. The macaroni is then mixed in and optionally topped with toasted baguette slices and extra cheese, broiled to golden perfection for a comforting, flavorful twist on classic mac & cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Onion and Base
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
Pasta and Topping
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- Optional: French bread or baguette slices for toasting
- Extra grated cheese for topping (about ½ cup)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Slowly cook the thinly sliced yellow onions in butter over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process allows the onions to turn golden brown and develop a rich, sweet flavor essential for the dish.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat. Gradually whisk in the beef or vegetable broth and half-and-half or heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and thickened. Add minced garlic and dried thyme, then melt in Gruyère and sharp white cheddar cheeses, stirring until creamy and fully combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case it is needed to loosen the cheese sauce later.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce thoroughly, ensuring every macaroni piece is coated evenly with the luscious, velvety cheese and onion sauce.
- Bake or Broil Optional Topping: Transfer the mac & cheese mixture into an oven-safe dish. Top with extra grated cheese and toasted baguette slices if desired. Broil briefly until the top is bubbly and golden brown, mimicking the classic French onion soup’s crouton finish. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Be sure to stir onions frequently while caramelizing to avoid burning and ensure even browning.
- Using freshly grated cheese yields a better melt and texture than pre-shredded options.
- The reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick when combining with pasta.
- Broiling the topping is optional but adds a delightful crispy, golden contrast to the creamy mac & cheese.
Keywords: French onion soup, mac and cheese, Gruyère cheese, caramelized onions, comfort food, cheesy pasta, baked mac and cheese, French cuisine inspired
