French Onion Mac and Cheese Creamy Comfort Dish

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes, until the onions are a deep golden brown and caramelized. Stir in sugar halfway through to enhance the caramelization process.
3. Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef or vegetable broth along with the thyme. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the caramelized onion mixture, Gruyère cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the cheese and onion mixture.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese on top followed by a layer of panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.