When Trader Joe's promises a French Onion Mac & Cheese, you're probably expecting something dramatic. Something that says, "I've been slowly caramelized for hours and I've got the layers of flavor to prove it." But spoiler alert, this one is more like mac in a French onion costume. Still comforting. Still cheesy. Just not quite what the name suggests.
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Review
This frozen entrée comes in a plastic tray and features elbow macaroni in a rich blend of Swiss and cheddar cheeses. On top, you'll find roasted onions and croutons that are supposed to mimic the crunchy layer you'd find on a baked bowl of French onion soup. You pop it in the oven or microwave, and in about 30 to 45 minutes, you've got dinner or at least a cheesy side dish.
I went into this with big expectations. I mean, French onion and mac and cheese? Sounds like comfort food royalty. But from the very first bite, it was clear this wasn't going to be a bold flavor bomb. The mac and cheese part? Delicious. Creamy, rich, and just the right kind of gooey. The Swiss adds that mellow nuttiness, the cheddar brings body, and it all works together really well.
The problem? The "French onion" part barely showed up. If you blink, you might miss the roasted onions altogether. They're there, but they aren't bringing the caramelized punch you'd hope for. It's like they got nervous and decided to hang out in the background.
Now let's talk texture. The crouton topping is actually a win. It gives this nice crispy contrast to the creamy pasta underneath, which makes it feel a little fancier than your average boxed mac. Just make sure you bake it-microwaving won't do those croutons any favors.
It's also a pretty hefty dish. If you eat the whole tray (which, let's be honest, is easy to do), you're getting a full-on carb bomb. Great for a cozy night in. Not ideal for those tracking every bite.
Overall? It's cheesy, it's filling, and it scratches a comfort food itch. Just don't go in expecting a bowl of French onion soup in mac form, or you might end up disappointed.
How to Serve
- Serve as a side with roast chicken, steak, or even a burger
- Bake in the oven for the best texture
- Top with extra caramelized onions or chives for more flavor
Creative Uses
- Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a full meal
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an umami boost
- Scoop into a ramekin, sprinkle with Gruyère, and broil for a faux fancy appetizer
FAQs about Trader Joe's French Onion Mac and Cheese
The following are commonly asked question about this product:
Not really. It has a hint of onion, but mostly tastes like mac and cheese with a suggestion of something more.
Technically two and a half. Realistically, it depends on how hangry you are. But let's be real, we are closer to one if you are really hungry.
Yes, but if you want that crispy topping, the oven is the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe's French Onion Mac & Cheese walks the line between comfort classic and culinary tease. It delivers big-time on creamy, cheesy satisfaction, but the French onion promise feels like a whisper in a room full of cheddar. If you're in it for the cheese, you'll be happy. If you're craving deep, oniony drama, you might want to add your own flair. Either way, it's worth a try for mac and cheese fans who want something just a little extra.
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Trader Joe's French Onion Mac and Cheese
Product Name: Trader Joe's French Onion Mac and Cheese
Product Description: Trader Joe's French Onion Mac and Cheese is a new but limited run dinner.
Price: $4.99
Currency: USD
Availability: LimitedAvailability
Summary
Trader Joe's French Onion Mac and Cheese is new but a limited time offering.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Cheesy Goodness The Swiss and cheddar combo delivers rich, creamy flavor
- Crunchy Topping Those croutons actually hold up and give great texture
- Easy to Make Straight from freezer to fork with minimal effort
Cons
- Where’s the Onion? It’s in the name, but barely on your tongue
- Heavy on Calories Not a light bite, but hey, it’s mac and cheese
- Limited Edition This one’s seasonal, so if you love it, stock up
herthoughts says
Interesting
Alek says
Trader Joe's should sell caramelized onions. Either in jar or the freezer section.
TJ's should done bacon mac & cheese!! Italian style mac cheese with ground beef on top.
Welcome back!
becomebetty says
Thank you! And I totally agree!
Andrea says
So glad to hear that you are back and that all is well! I was worried. And, of course, I missed your great reviews. Here’s to a 5-star 2021!
Beth H says
So glad you are back and all is well! I am enjoying the new reviews.
becomebetty says
Hey Beth! Thanks again! All is well. Just trying to adapt to working full time, blogging, and baby. Thanks so much for your kind words!
Dagmar says
Oh my gosh! I so loved this but also wished for more caramelized onions. I sprinkled it a with granulated roasted garlic also as well as some grated parm! Very decadent tasting. Thought about adding some spinach to add a health factor to it LOL. I will definitely be buying this again!
Lisa Lazansky-Roach says
I loved this and hated that it is seasonal....I did add some crunchy friend onions on top and it was delish!
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing!