French Onion Soup Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Comforting Fusion of Flavors

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  Imagine the rich, savory taste of French onion soup combined with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese.  This French Onion Soup Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending two beloved dishes into one delightful meal.  

Whether you're a fan of French cuisine or a mac and cheese aficionada, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and become a new favorite in your household.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Ultimate Comfort Food:  Combining the best of French onion soup and mac and cheese, this dish is a cozy, hearty meal perfect for any occasion.  
• Rich, Savory Flavors:  The caramelized onions add a depth of flavor the elevates traditional mac and cheese to gourmet status.  
• Easy to Make:  Despite its gourmet taste, this recipe is straightforward and can be made in under an hour.  
• Perfect for Entertaining:  Impress your guests with this unique and delicious fusion dish at your next dinner party. 

INGREDIENTS:

For this French Onion Soup Mac and Cheese Recipe you will need to gather a few simple ingredients:  

• 1 lb of Pasta
• 4 Tbsp of Butter
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 4 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 3 cups Milk
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese (or white cheddar)
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves of Garlic, minced
• 2 Onions, caramelized
• 2 slices of Bacon, crumbled
• Crush croutons to top
• Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven:  Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C.
2. Cook the Pasta:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the pasta and cook according the package instruction until al dente.  Drain and set aside. 
3. Cook the Bacon:  While your pasta is cooking, you will place the two slices of bacon in a COLD pan. Cook the bacon until the fat is rendered and the bacon is crisp. Remove from the pan, place on a paper towel, and set to the side. 
4. Caramelize the Onions:  In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted.  Add the sliced onions, 2 tsp sugar, and salt.  Stir occasionally, allowing the onions to caramelize slowly.  This process will take about 25-30 minutes.  The onions should become golden brown and very soft.  Finish the onions with the Worcestershire Sauce.
5. Make the Cheese Sauce:  In a large saucepan, melt in butter over medium heat.  Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and golden.  Gradually whisk in the milk and beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.  Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes until thickened.  Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted smooth.  Season with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble the Dish:  In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, caramelized onions, bacon and cheese sauce.  Mix well to ensure the onions are evenly distributed.
7. Bake:  Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.  If using, sprinkle the crushed croutons on top for a crispy finish.  Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.  
8. Serve:  Let the French Onion Soup Mac and Cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.  Garnish with additional thyme if desired. 

STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:



TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Caramelizing Onions:  Be patient when caramelizing the onions.  Low and slow is the key to developing their deep, rich flavor.
• Cheese Variety:  While Gruyère is traditional in French Onion Soup, you can experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar or swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Ahead:  You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it.  When ready to serve, simply bake until heated through.  

FAQs:

Can I use different type of pasta?  

Yes!  While elbow macaroni is classic, any pasta that holds sauce well, like cavatappi or shells, will work perfectly.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely!  Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use anchovy-free Worcestershire sauce for a delicious vegetarian person.  

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.  Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

This French Onion Soup Mac and Cheese Recipe is the perfect fusion of two comfort food classics.  The rich caramelized onions paired with creamy, cheesy pasta create a dish that's cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.  I know you're gonna love this one, so give it a try tonight!

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen War~