French Onion Soup Mac & Cheese Recipe – Cozy Comfort Food Dinner Idea
French onion soup meets mac & cheese in this cozy comfort food recipe! Creamy pasta shells are tossed with caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you crave something indulgent and satisfying.
Equipment
- Large skillet (for onions)
- Saucepan (for cheese sauce)
- Pasta pot
- Baking dish (9x13 recommended)
- Wooden spoon & whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (cavatappi or elbow macaroni)
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- ½ cup sherry or beef broth (for deglazing)
- 3 tbsp flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in skillet. Add onions, thyme, and salt. Cook slowly over medium-low heat until golden brown (30–40 minutes). Deglaze with sherry or broth.
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in saucepan, whisk in flour to form roux. Gradually add milk and broth, whisking until smooth. Stir in Gruyère, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Mix pasta with onions and cheese sauce. Transfer to baking dish.
- Top & Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over pasta. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Patience with onions is key—don’t rush caramelization.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting.
- Add rotisserie chicken for protein.
- Gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute.
- Mini skillets or ramekins make elegant individual servings.