French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese

Name: French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting fusion of classic French onion soup and creamy mac and cheese in this delectable recipe. With tender pasta enveloped in a savory onion and cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy, caramelized layer of Gruyère and breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, it offers a gourmet twist on a beloved comfort food.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2025-12-02T12:12:18.152Z

This French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is a delightful take on two classic dishes, combining the rich flavors of caramelized onions and gooey cheese.

A Comfort Food Classic

French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings. This dish seamlessly blends the rich flavors of classic French onion soup with the beloved creaminess of mac and cheese, offering a unique dining experience that warms both body and spirit. The indulgent combination of caramelized onions and melted cheese creates a savory depth that elevates traditional mac and cheese into a gourmet delight.

Imagine digging into a hearty bowl where tender elbow macaroni meets a luscious sauce made from sautéed onions and creamy Gruyère cheese. The distinctive taste of onion, paired with the savory umami of beef broth, elevates this dish beyond the standard pasta fare. With every mouthful, you’ll enjoy a complex flavor profile that celebrates and honors French culinary traditions while catering to comfort food lovers everywhere.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese is not just another weeknight meal; it’s versatile enough to impress at special gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply want to treat your family to something extraordinary, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Its unique spin on both French onion soup and mac and cheese makes it a standout option that guests will remember long after the dinner plates are cleared.

Moreover, this dish’s straightforward preparation process makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a gourmet-level meal in your own kitchen. Plus, the combination of flavors allows you to get creative—feel free to add ingredients like crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for an even richer experience!

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When it comes to making a dish like French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese, the quality of your ingredients truly matters. Using fresh, high-quality onions and Gruyère cheese will elevate the flavor profile significantly, leading to a dish that bursts with taste. Gruyère is not only creamy but also has a unique nuttiness that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions beautifully, making for a well-balanced dish.

Additionally, opting for homemade beef broth instead of store-bought can enhance the depth of flavor in your sauce. While convenience is key, investing a little more time into crafting your broth brings a richness and authenticity that packaged alternatives simply can’t match. Your effort will be well worth it when your family and friends savor each bite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Mix until well combined and set aside.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and caramelized, about 20 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Add garlic to the onions and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, then stir in Gruyère cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to coat in the cheese sauce.

Prepare the Topping

In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Gruyère cheese, and chopped parsley.

Bake

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with the breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbling and golden.

Serve hot and enjoy your French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese!

Tips for Success

To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, patience is key. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and have released their natural sugars. This process usually takes about 20 minutes, but the depth of flavor gained from this step is invaluable trust us, it’s worth the wait!

When baking the mac and cheese, make sure the breadcrumb topping is evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite has the perfect amount of crunch to contrast with the creamy pasta beneath. Additionally, you can customize your topping by adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese hot from the oven, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple side salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. A light, crisp salad complements this hearty dish wonderfully, making for a satisfying meal.

For drink pairings, consider a medium-bodied white wine or a light lager. The acidity in the wine or the effervescence of the beer balances the creamy richness of the mac and cheese, improving the overall dining experience. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness that goes into crafting the perfect meal with complementary flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What if I don't have Gruyère cheese?

You can substitute it with Swiss cheese or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan.