From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
1/4
Caramelized Onion Mac & Cheese
Instructions
1
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions and season with salt and pepper.
3
Cook onions slowly for 35–40 minutes, stirring frequently, until deeply caramelized. Remove onions and set aside.
4
In the same pan, add remaining 2 tbsp butter. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6
Add cheddar and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Stir until melted and smooth.
7
Return caramelized onions to the sauce. Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water as needed.
8
Stir to combine until creamy. Add more mozzarella if extra cheesiness is desired.
9
Serve hot and enjoy!
My Calorie Intake
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Tips & Tricks (5)
- Low and Slow Caramelization 🧅Cook onions on medium-low heat for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop deep golden color and natural sweetness without burning. Patience here transforms the dish from good to extraordinary.
- Pasta Water is Liquid Gold 💧Reserve at least 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining and use it to adjust sauce consistency, creating a silkier texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Cheese Melting Technique 🧀Remove the sauce from heat before adding cheese, then stir gently and continuously to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency instead of a grainy texture.
- Layered Flavor Building 🌟Season the caramelized onions with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika before mixing into the cream sauce to maximize flavor distribution and prevent flat-tasting final dish.
- Temperature Control for Emulsion 🌡️Keep the heavy cream at room temperature and add it slowly to the warm sauce base to prevent breaking; maintaining 160-180°F ensures the cheese and cream emulsify properly without separating.
Recipe Facts
Diet at a Glance
Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Low Sugar
Low Carb
My Calorie Intake
Smart Nutrition 
Nutrition Per Serving
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Glycemic Analysis
Glycemic Index
Glycemic Load
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