Caramelized Onion Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 Ib pasta (small shape)

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 1/2 teaspoons red pepper powder

• 1/3 cup of flour

• 4 cups of milk

• 2 cups caramelized onions (link to recipe here)

• 3 cups shredded gruyere

• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar

• 1 1/2 cups panko bread crumbs

• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350 ºF (180 ºC). Butter a 3 quart baking dish.

2. Bring a large pot filled 2/3 full of water to a boil. Salt heavily and add the Ib of pasta. Cook until al dente (following the instructions on your pasta). Strain and set aside to cool.

3. Meanwhile, in another large pot, melt 6 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1/2 a teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon red pepper powder. Stir until well combined. Then add 1/2 cup of flour and whisk vigorously for 2 minutes until the mixture is fully combined and has become liquidy again.

4. Slowly add in 4 cups of milk to the flour mixture. Pour a small amount and then whisk vigorously to combine it. After all the milk has been incorporated, add the 2 cups of caramelized onions, 3 cups of gruyere, and 3 cups sharp cheddar. Stir everything together over medium heat until it thickens and all the cheese melts.

5. Pour the cooled pasta into the sauce and stir well to combine everything. Then pour it into your buttered 3 quart baking dish.

6. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper powder, 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs, and 1 cup freshly grated parmesan. Then add this topping in an even layer to the top of the mac and cheese.

7. Bake your mac and cheese until the top is golden brown (for about 30 minutes). Remove it from the oven and serve immediately or reheat it before serving.

Notes

• Servings: ~ 8 people