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Classic French Onion Soup

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop & Broiling
  • Cuisine: French

Description

This French Onion Soup features caramelized onions simmered in a flavorful broth, topped with a toasted baguette slice and melted Gruyère cheese. It’s a comforting and elegant dish that’s perfect for a chilly day!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Soup:

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 6 cups beef broth (or a mix of beef & chicken broth)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf

For the Topping:

  • 1 small baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)

Instructions

  • Caramelize the Onions:
    • In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
    • Add sliced onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
    • Stir in garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Deglaze the Pot:
    • Pour in white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Simmer the Soup:
    • Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes.
    • Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Prepare the Bread Topping:
    • While the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Brush baguette slices with melted butter and toast on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes, until golden and crispy.
  • Assemble & Broil:
    • Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls.
    • Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
    • Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
    • Let cool slightly and serve hot, garnished with extra thyme if desired. Enjoy your classic French Onion Soup!

Notes

  • For extra depth, use homemade beef broth or add a splash of cognac before serving.
  • Swap Gruyère for Swiss, Provolone, or Mozzarella if needed.
  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~350
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg