Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 190  C
Servings: 6
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

Creamy, rich, and packed with deep savory flavor, this Caramelized Onion Mac & Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Sweet, slow-cooked onions add a gourmet twist, while the golden, buttery topping brings crunch to every bite. A delicious baked pasta dish perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients
    For the Caramelized Onions:
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)
    • For the Pasta Base:
  • 400 g elbow macaroni
  • Salt for boiling water
    • For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (warm)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • For the Crispy Breadcrumb Topping:
  • 1.5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
    Caramelize the Onions
  1. 1
    Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and sprinkle with salt and sugar. Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and deeply caramelized. If desired, add balsamic vinegar during the last 5 minutes. Set aside.
    2. Cook the Pasta
  2. 2
    Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
    3. Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux Base)
  3. 3
    In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in warm milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    4. Add the Cheese
  4. 4
    Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
    5. Combine Everything
  5. 5
    Add the cooked pasta and caramelized onions into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Transfer mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
    6. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
  6. 6
    In a small pan, melt 1.5 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast until golden. Stir in smoked paprika and Parmesan. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pasta.
    7. Bake
  7. 7
    Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown on top.
    8. Rest and Serve
  8. 8
    Let the mac & cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the sauce. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Note

Cheese Swap: Try Fontina, Havarti, or White Cheddar for variations in flavor.

Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Bake when ready to serve.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Breadcrumb Alternatives: Use crushed Ritz crackers or sourdough breadcrumbs for different texture and flavor.

Add-Ins: Mix in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted garlic for extra depth.

Keywords: mac and cheese, caramelized onion, baked pasta, comfort food, cheesy casserole
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/caramelized-onion-mac-cheese-with-crispy-breadcrumbs-recipe/