French Onion Soup is a warm and tasty dish made from caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with melted cheese on crusty bread. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
Every spoonful is filled with rich flavors, and I love the cheesy goodness that pulls away as you take a bite. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little comfort! 🧅🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are the star of the show! Their sweetness deepens when they caramelize. If you have red onions, they work too, but the flavor will be a bit sharper.
Butter and Olive Oil: Using both gives a nice richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use more olive oil or even vegetable oil instead.
Beef Broth: For a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is perfect! If you have homemade broth, even better. Chicken broth can work too, but it’ll change the flavor a bit.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but Swiss cheese or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can also do the job. They won’t have the same flavor, but they’ll still taste great!
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions might seem tricky, but it’s all about patience! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. Keep stirring every few minutes.
- Add a pinch of sugar to help with caramelization.
- Cook them for about 40-50 minutes until they are a deep golden brown.
This slow cooking really enhances the flavors, making your soup flavorful and rich!
What’s the Best Way to Broil the Cheese?
Broiling gives your soup that delicious, bubbly cheese crust! Here’s my tip:
- Set the oven rack close to the broiler.
- Keep a close eye, as cheese can burn quickly. It usually takes just 2-4 minutes.
- Consider using oven-safe bowls to avoid mess.
Enjoy the golden, melty goodness right out of the oven!
How to Make French Onion Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 8 cups beef broth (substitute with vegetable or chicken broth if preferred)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Bread and Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1.5 hours total—30 minutes for prep and 40-50 minutes for caramelizing the onions. After that, it’s just a quick broiling time to cover everything with cheese. The soup is perfect for cozy dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a teaspoon of sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become caramelized and golden brown; this will take about 40-50 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on them and stir often to avoid burning.
2. Add the Garlic:
Once the onions are nicely caramelized, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and melds nicely with the onions.
3. Deglaze with Wine:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pot now! Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift any tasty browned bits. Let it cook until most of the wine has evaporated—about 5 minutes.
4. Simmer the Broth:
Add the beef broth, thyme, and the bay leaf to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then let it cook for about 30 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Toast the Bread:
While the soup is simmering, turn on your oven’s broiler. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them until they are crispy and golden brown—about 2 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Assemble the Soup:
Once the soup is done simmering, remove the bay leaf scoot over to ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, and generously sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese on top.
7. Broil for Perfection:
Slide the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown—this usually takes about 2-4 minutes. Be sure to watch it closely!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley, if you like, and then serve immediately. Dive into the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade French Onion Soup!
This classic recipe is a delicious meal that captures the heart of French cooking with its sweet caramelized onions and melty cheese. Enjoy every cozy spoonful!
Can I Use Sweet Onions Instead of Yellow Onions?
Yes, you can! Sweet onions, like Vidalia, will add a different flavor profile to the soup, giving it a nice sweetness. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can caramelize faster than yellow onions.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and skip the white wine if you prefer. The caramelized onions will still provide a rich flavor, making the soup hearty and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. For the best texture, re-prepare the toasted bread and cheese topping fresh when you serve the leftovers.
Can I Freeze French Onion Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. However, it’s best to add the bread and cheese fresh after reheating for the best texture!
