Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Slowly cook thinly sliced yellow onions in butter over low heat for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and develop a rich, sweet flavor.
- 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 smooth and thickened. Add minced garlic and dried thyme, then melt in Gruyère and sharp white cheddar cheeses until creamy and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the luscious, velvety sauce.
- Transfer the mac & cheese to 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 crouton finish. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
Use a wide sauté pan for even caramelization of onions. Grate your own cheese for better melt and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg