French Onion White Mac N Cheese is a rich, creamy twist on classic comfort food, packed with deep caramelized onion flavor and velvety white cheddar sauce. Inspired by the savory goodness of French onion soup, this dish combines slow-cooked onions, tender pasta, and gooey cheese into something I crave again and again. It’s indulgent, cozy, and perfect for weeknights or when I want something extra special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it brings two comfort food favorites together in the best way. The slow-cooked onions add a sweet, savory depth that makes the white cheese sauce feel even more luxurious. The pasta is coated in creamy goodness, and I usually finish it with more cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust. Whether I serve it as a main or a side, it’s always the first thing gone.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
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Yellow onions, thinly sliced
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Butter
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Olive oil
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Fresh thyme or dried thyme
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Garlic, minced
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All-purpose flour
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Milk
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Heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
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White cheddar cheese, shredded
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Gruyère or mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra meltiness)
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Salt and black pepper
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Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
Directions
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I start by cooking the pasta according to package directions, then drain and set it aside.
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In a large skillet, I heat butter and a little olive oil over medium-low heat and slowly caramelize the onions with thyme and a pinch of salt. This takes 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until they’re golden and jammy.
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I add garlic and cook for another minute.
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I sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
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I slowly whisk in milk (and cream if using) until the mixture is smooth, then let it simmer until thickened.
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I reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheeses until melted and creamy.
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I fold in the cooked pasta and stir to coat evenly.
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For extra texture, I transfer it to a baking dish, top with more cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 generous servings (or 6 smaller ones) and takes 45–50 minutes total—about 30 minutes for the onions and 15–20 minutes for the rest of the steps.
Variations
Sometimes I add shredded rotisserie chicken to make it more filling. I’ve also made it with different cheeses like fontina, Swiss, or parmesan for added complexity. If I want it gluten-free, I use gluten-free pasta and a flour substitute like rice flour or cornstarch for the roux.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess. It’s best eaten fresh, but it holds up well for lunches or next-day dinners.
FAQs
What makes this “French onion” style?
The caramelized onions and thyme give it that deep, sweet-savory flavor you find in classic French onion soup. It’s that extra step that makes the dish stand out.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. I assemble everything and store it in the fridge before baking. When ready, I heat it up in the oven until bubbly.
What’s the best cheese to use?
I use sharp white cheddar for bold flavor and often add a little Gruyère or mozzarella for meltiness. Freshly shredded cheese works best.
Do I have to caramelize the onions fully?
Yes, for the best flavor. It takes some time, but the sweetness and richness are worth it. I don’t rush it.
Can I skip the baking step?
Absolutely. It’s delicious straight from the stovetop, but baking adds a golden, cheesy crust that I really love.
Conclusion
French Onion White Mac N Cheese is a warm, cheesy, and comforting dish with a gourmet twist. The caramelized onions bring a depth of flavor that transforms simple mac and cheese into something unforgettable. Whether I serve it as a main dish or a side, it always brings that cozy, homemade feel to the table.
