French Onion Soup Macaroni & Cheese

Meld the comforting warmth of classic French onion soup with the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese, and what do you get? A harmonious dish that’s both deeply flavorful and satisfyingly filling. This French Onion Soup Macaroni and Cheese recipe is perfect for those who crave a unique twist on two beloved classics. Prepare yourself for a culinary journey to the heart of France, without leaving the comfort of your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups of grated Gruyère cheese
• 2 cups of grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (preferably whole)
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Instructions:

1. Caramelizing the Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions, stirring occasionally until they become soft and golden brown. This could take about 25-30 minutes. Once caramelized, set aside.
2. Pasta Preparation: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Slowly add the milk, continuing to whisk. Add the bay leaf and thyme. Once the mixture thickens and starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Gradually add in 3 cups of Gruyère and 1.5 cups of Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is completely melted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf.
4. Combining the Elements: Add the caramelized onions and beef broth to the cheese sauce, stirring well. Now, fold in the cooked macaroni until everything is well combined and coated in the sauce.
5. Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serving: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy your French culinary fusion!