If you’re craving comfort food? Dive into creamy, cheesy French onion soup mac & cheese that’s bursting with rich, savory goodness. This dish takes the classic French onion soup flavors you love—caramelized onions, melted Gruyère, and hearty broth—and transforms them into a luscious, velvety mac and cheese bowl that satisfies every craving. Perfectly gooey with that deep, onion-packed flavor, this recipe makes cozy mealtime feel effortless and indulgent.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines the nostalgic warmth of French onion soup with the creamy indulgence of mac & cheese for a truly satisfying meal.
- Rich, Savory Flavor: Caramelized onions and a blend of cheeses create a deep, layered taste that feels gourmet yet homey.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients with straightforward steps that come together quickly on weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Customizable: Perfect for adapting to your taste or dietary preferences by swapping cheeses or adding extras.
- One-Bowl Wonder: Hearty and filling, this dish stands alone as a dinner or makes an impressive, crowd-pleasing side.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Despite its indulgent flavor, this French onion soup mac & cheese recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients. Each one plays a key role—in color, texture, or that iconic savory onion taste—to create a beautiful balance.
- Yellow onions: Thinly sliced and caramelized to develop sweet, rich flavor and deep color.
- Butter: Adds creaminess and helps soften the onions perfectly during sautéing.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce into a smooth, velvety texture.
- Beef or vegetable broth: Incorporates the signature soup base flavor and adds moisture without heaviness.
- Half-and-half or heavy cream: Elevates the sauce’s richness and silky smooth finish.
- Gruyère cheese: Melts beautifully with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that’s classic to French onion soup.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: Brings a tangy contrast and boosts cheesiness.
- Elbow macaroni: The ideal pasta shape for capturing and holding the creamy sauce with every bite.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic depth alongside onions for a robust flavor profile.
- Dried thyme: Brings an herby note that brightens the dish perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste and enhance all the savory layers.
- French bread or baguette: Optional for toasting with melted cheese on top to mimic classic soup croutons.
Variations for French onion soup mac & cheese
Feel free to customize this French onion soup mac & cheese to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s easy to swap in different ingredients or tweak the recipe without losing its soul-warming essence.
- Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef to keep it rich but meat-free.
- Gluten-free option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta.
- Extra protein: Add cooked shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.
- Different cheeses: Swap Gruyère for Swiss, mozzarella, or even Fontina for varied melty textures and tastes.
- Herb twist: Incorporate fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a new aromatic angle.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a gentle heat contrast.
How to Make French onion soup mac & cheese
Step 1: Caramelize the onions
Start by slowly cooking your thinly sliced yellow onions in butter over low heat until they turn golden brown and deeply sweet, about 30-40 minutes. This step builds the hearty base flavor crucial for this dish.
Step 2: Make the cheese sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and stir well to coat. Slowly whisk in broth and cream to form a smooth sauce. Then, melt in Gruyère and cheddar until creamy and perfectly combined.
Step 3: Cook the macaroni
Meanwhile, boil elbow macaroni until al dente according to package directions. Drain well but reserve a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce
Mix the cooked macaroni into your rich onion and cheese sauce, making sure every piece is coated with that luscious, velvety goodness.
Step 5: Bake or broil optional topping
Transfer the mac & cheese to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese and toasted baguette slices if desired, then broil briefly until bubbly and golden on top for that classic French onion soup flair.
Pro Tips for Making French onion soup mac & cheese
- Low and slow: Take your time caramelizing onions for that perfect sweet, rich base flavor.
- Cheese blend: Combining Gruyère with sharp cheddar balances nutty sweetness and sharp tang.
- Reserve pasta water: Keep a splash to adjust sauce consistency if it thickens too much.
- Broil carefully: Watch the top closely to avoid burning when finishing under the broiler.
- Fresh herbs: Adding thyme near the end preserves its freshness and aroma.
How to Serve French onion soup mac & cheese
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens each bite. A light drizzle of truffle oil can elevate the dish for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the richness. A glass of dry white wine or light red complements the melty cheese and savory onions beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve in individual ramekins topped with toasted baguette slices for an elegant touch or pile on extra caramelized onions and cheese for that extra ooey-gooey factor. Or turn it into a casserole-style dish perfect for potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover French onion soup mac & cheese covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, but be sure to reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
Freezing
This dish freezes well when placed in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to avoid texture changes.
Reheating
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil, or gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works best for holding onto the cheese sauce, penne, shells, or cavatappi can be great alternatives depending on your preference.
Is it possible to make a vegan French onion soup mac & cheese?
Yes, swap out butter and cheese for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy taste, and cashew cream can provide richness.
How long does it take to caramelize onions properly?
For the best flavor, plan on about 30 to 40 minutes cooking low and slow, stirring occasionally until the onions are deeply golden and sweet.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Definitely. You can make the sauce and caramelized onions ahead, store separately, then combine with pasta and bake just before serving.
What if my cheese sauce is too thick?
Simply whisk in a splash of broth, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This French onion soup mac & cheese is pure comfort in a bowl, blending the best of classic flavors with cozy, cheesy warmth. Once you try it, it becomes one of those dishes you’ll turn to whenever you want something satisfying and utterly delicious. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself to this soul-hugging meal that brings all the good vibes at every spoonful.
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French onion soup mac & cheese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth)
Description
Creamy, cheesy French onion soup mac & cheese that combines caramelized onions, melted Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and a savory broth-infused cheese sauce with elbow macaroni for the ultimate comforting and indulgent meal. This recipe delivers rich, layered flavors inspired by classic French onion soup in an easy-to-make, cozy mac and cheese dish.
Ingredients
Onion Base
- 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
Cheese Sauce
- 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
Pasta & Topping
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- Optional: French bread or baguette slices for toasting
- Extra grated cheese for topping (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: Slowly cook thinly sliced yellow onions in butter over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and develop a rich, sweet flavor.
- Make the cheese sauce: Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat. Gradually whisk in the beef or vegetable broth and half-and-half or heavy cream until smooth and thickened. Add minced garlic and dried thyme, then melt in Gruyère and sharp white cheddar cheeses until creamy and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the macaroni: Boil elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the luscious, velvety sauce.
- Bake or broil optional topping: Transfer the mac & cheese to an oven-safe dish. Top with extra grated cheese and toasted baguette slices if desired. Broil briefly until the top is bubbly and golden brown, mimicking the classic French onion soup crouton finish. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- Take your time caramelizing the onions low and slow for the best deep, sweet flavor.
- Combine Gruyère and sharp cheddar cheeses for a perfect balance of nutty sweetness and tangy sharpness.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Broil toppings carefully since they can burn quickly.
- Add fresh thyme near the end of sauce preparation to preserve its brightness and aroma.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg