Print

French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup
Print Recipe

French Onion Soup is a heartwarming classic that combines slowly caramelized yellow onions, rich beef or vegetable broth, and a golden, bubbly gruyère cheese crust atop toasted baguette slices. This easy recipe delivers deep, robust flavors with simple ingredients and comforting textures perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 2 sprigs thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings

  • 1 baguette, sliced
  • 2 cups shredded gruyère cheese (or Swiss, mozzarella, or aged cheddar as alternatives)

Optional Variations

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy twist
  • Fresh rosemary or parsley for extra herbal flavor
  • Gluten-free bread or crackers instead of baguette for gluten-free option

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Thinly slice the yellow onions and cook slowly in butter over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Allow the onions to develop a deep amber color without burning, which takes about 40 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, thyme, and bay leaf: Stir in minced garlic, fresh thyme sprigs, and a bay leaf; cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Deglaze with white wine: Pour in the dry white wine and scrape up the browned bits stuck to the pot bottom. Let the wine reduce by half to concentrate the flavor.
  4. Add broth and simmer: Pour in beef or vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 30 minutes to meld all flavors.
  5. Prepare toasted baguette slices: Slice the baguette and toast until golden and crisp, perfect for layering on top of the soup.
  6. Assemble and broil: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place toasted baguette slices on top, and generously cover with shredded gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese melts and bubbles into a golden crust.

Notes

  • Be patient when caramelizing onions to develop rich sweetness without burning.
  • Use homemade broth if possible for deeper flavor.
  • Fresh thyme and bay leaf are key for authentic aroma.
  • Watch cheese carefully under the broiler to prevent burning.
  • Serve the soup hot and fresh for best taste.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; freeze broth and onions separately without toppings for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on stove; add fresh toasted bread and cheese before broiling.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Onion Soup, caramelized onions, gruyère cheese soup, classic French soup, cozy soup recipe

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/french-onion-soup/