Caramelized Onion Macaroni and Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) package large elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 large onions, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 (16-ounce) block white Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 32 saltine crackers, finely crushed and divided
• 6 large eggs
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare macaroni according to package directions; set aside.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and 1 teaspoon sugar. Cook, stirring often, 15 to 20 minutes or until onions are caramel colored.
3. Layer half each of cooked macaroni, onions, cheeses, and cracker crumbs in a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Layer with remaining macaroni, onions, and cheeses.
4. Whisk together eggs and next 3 ingredients; pour over macaroni mixture.
5. Stir together remaining half of cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and, if desired, pecans. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni mixture.
6. Bake at 350° for 1 hour or until golden brown and set. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.