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Chicken

French Onion Mac and Cheese

French onion mac and cheese is surprisingly complex and rich in flavor thanks to all the cheese, the onions and more.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 pound uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2-1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded swiss cheese
  • 1-1/2 cups shredded gruyere cheese
  • 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup french-fried onions, optional

Directions:

  • Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions; cook until tender, 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in vinegar, salt and pepper; continue cooking until onions are golden brown and very soft, 10-15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain; set aside.
  • In a large sauce pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisk until smooth. Gradually add in milk and broth; bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, 3-4 minutes, whisking occasionally. Stir in Gruyere, Swiss, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, garlic powder and thyme; mix until cheeses have melted. Stir in cooked macaroni.
  • Transfer mixture to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Place dollops of caramelized onions on top of mac and cheese; use a knife to swirl around. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden brown, 20-25 minutes. If desired, top with french-fried onions; bake an additional 2-3 minutes.