Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French Onion Soup is a timeless, comforting dish with rich caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and a crispy, cheesy topping. Perfect for chilly days, this elegant yet simple soup brings warmth and depth of flavor with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, rich flavor: Slow-cooked onions create a deeply caramelized and sweet taste.
• Comforting & hearty: Warm broth and cheesy toast make it a perfect meal or appetizer.
• Easy to make: Uses simple pantry staples and requires minimal hands-on cooking.
• Impressive dish: A restaurant-quality recipe you can easily make at home.
• Versatile serving options: Serve as an appetizer or a full meal with a side salad.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Yellow onions, thinly sliced
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Sugar (optional, for caramelization)
• Dry white wine (optional)
• Beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• Bay leaves
• Fresh thyme
• Salt and black pepper
• Baguette, sliced
• Gruyère cheese, shredded (or Swiss cheese as a substitute)

Directions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized (about 30-40 minutes). If needed, add a pinch of sugar to enhance caramelization.
2. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in dry white wine, scraping the bottom to release browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add beef broth, bay leaves, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
4. Prepare the Toast: While the soup simmers, toast baguette slices until golden brown.
5. Assemble & Broil: Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven carefully and let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Extra Cheesy: Add Parmesan or cheddar for a different twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add rosemary or bay leaves for additional depth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread instead of a baguette.
• Bolder Flavor: Use red wine instead of white wine for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat. Toast fresh baguette slices for serving.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop even more if made a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.

What’s the best cheese for French onion soup?

Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss or provolone also work well.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, you can omit the wine or replace it with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

What type of onions should I use?

Yellow onions work best for their balance of sweetness and flavor.

How do I prevent my onions from burning?

Cook them low and slow, stirring often. If they start to burn, lower the heat.

Can I use store-bought croutons instead of baguette slices?

Yes, but toasted baguette slices provide a better texture and flavor.

Is French onion soup healthy?

It’s relatively healthy but can be high in sodium. Use low-sodium broth if needed.

What can I serve with French onion soup?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or a light protein like grilled chicken.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Caramelize the onions on the stovetop first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Can I use mozzarella instead of Gruyère?

Yes, but Gruyère melts better and has a richer flavor.

Conclusion

Classic French Onion Soup is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether serving as an appetizer or main course, this soup is sure to impress. Try it today and savor every spoonful of cheesy, caramelized goodness!

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