Description
This Decadent French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese Comfort Bowl combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese with creamy macaroni, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
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 1/2 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 1/2 cup)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until onions are caramelized, about 20–25 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, whisk flour into melted butter to create a roux. Gradually add beef broth and half-and-half, stirring until smooth and thickened.
- Add Gruyère and cheddar cheeses to the sauce, stirring until fully melted.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and caramelized onions. Mix well.
- Optional: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top. Serve with toasted French bread slices if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Gruyère cheese adds authentic French onion flavor; substitute with Swiss cheese if needed.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven for a quick comfort meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet & Baked (optional)
- Cuisine: French-American