Caramelized Onion Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep Time: 1 hr
Cook Time: 35 mins
Yield: 8 servings
Published
Last Updated
This rich and creamy mac and cheese features a homemade white sauce, gooey melted cheese, and tender pasta, all elevated by sweet, caramelized onions. Baked to golden perfection, it's topped with extra cheese and onions for a deliciously comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
caramelized onions
- 1⁄4 cup oil
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 pound dried pasta
- 1⁄2 cup butter
- 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups Gruyere Cheese
Directions
Caramelized Onions:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil over low heat. Add the onions and salt, and cook slowly, stirring regularly, until the onions are deep brown and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. Be sure to keep a close eye on them as they can burn easily.
- Once caramelized, stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, then remove from heat.
Mac and Cheese:
- Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. Drain and set aside.
- In a Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk and half-and-half, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the cheese, reserving some for topping, and half of the caramelized onions. Stir until the cheese is fully melted.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well. Pour the mixture into a buttered 9x13-inch casserole dish. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and cheese.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.