French Onion Mac and Cheese

This French Onion Mac and Cheese recipe is a show stopping side dish. It’s creamy, delicious and perfect for all onion fans!

Ingredients:

• 5 tbsp. butter divided, plus more room temperature for brushing
• 1 Peri & Sons Farms®Premium White Onion thinly sliced
• Kosher salt
• 8 oz. cavatappi or other short curly pasta
• 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 c. whole milk
• 1 c. grated fontina cheese
• 2 1/2 c. grated Gruyère
• 1 c. shredded sharp white cheddar
• 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves plus more for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter.
2. Once the butter has fully melted, add in your sliced onion and pinch of salt. Allow to cook over medium-low heat until caramelized, about 30 minutes.
3. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
4. While the pasta and onions are cooking, place 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, add in the flour and stir until combined. Allow the flour to cook off for about 1 minute.
5. While using a whisk, slowly pour in the milk. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to medium heat. Simmer and stir until the sauce has thickened, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Stir in the fontina, cheddar and 1 cup of gruyere cheese until the cheese has melted.
7. Remove from the heat and add in the pasta, caramelized onions, cayenne, dijon, and thyme.
8. Divide the mixture into 8 ramekins or baking dish that have been pre-greased. Top with the remaining gruyere. Bake for about 20 minutes until the sauce is bubbly around the edges.
9. To get the cheese golden brown, place under the boiler for about 2 minutes. Feel free to serve with fresh thyme!

Recipe from: French Onion Mac and Cheese – The Produce Moms