French Onion Soup

Name: French Onion Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slices of crusty bread; 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

French Onion Soup is a classic dish known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This hearty soup features caramelized onions, a savory broth, and is topped with melted cheese and crusty bread.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-01T20:34:43.932Z

French Onion Soup is a traditional French dish that dates back to Roman times. It has evolved over the centuries into the beloved comfort food we know today. The secret to its rich flavor lies in the slow caramelization of onions, which brings out their natural sweetness. Perfect for a chilly evening, this soup is a delightful balance of savory broth and gooey cheese.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, caramelized onion flavor with a hint of sweetness
Topped with gooey melted cheese for the ultimate comfort
Perfectly paired with crusty bread for dipping

      

The Art of Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is a crucial step in crafting the perfect French Onion Soup. The process transforms the natural sugars in the onions, creating a deep, rich flavor that is the hallmark of this dish. To achieve this, it’s important to cook the onions slowly over medium heat, allowing them to soften and develop a beautiful golden-brown color. This patience pays off, as the sweet, complex flavors will elevate your soup to new heights.

To ensure even caramelization, be sure to stir the onions regularly. This prevents them from sticking to the pot and burning, which can create an unpleasant bitter taste. If you find that the onions are browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat. Remember, good things take time, and the result will be worth the effort!

Choosing the Right Cheese

The cheese you choose can make or break your French Onion Soup. Gruyère cheese is the traditional choice, renowned for its excellent melting properties and nutty flavor. Its creamy texture creates that iconic gooey topping that pairs perfectly with the savory broth. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider mixing in a bit of Emmental cheese for added depth.

Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty contrast to the rich Gruyère. Sprinkling it on top not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a beautifully browned crust when broiled. Experimenting with different cheese combinations can lead to delightful variations of this classic dish, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serving French Onion Soup is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Use oven-safe bowls or crocks to ladle the soup, allowing guests to enjoy the bubbling cheese and warm broth right at the table. Pairing the soup with a simple side salad can balance the richness of the dish, adding freshness to your meal.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving a light, crisp white wine alongside the soup. The acidity of the wine complements the savory flavors beautifully, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the dish. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, French Onion Soup is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Soup

4 large onions, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cups beef broth
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

4 slices of crusty bread
1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar, stirring to coat. Cook the onions for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown.

Add Broth and Wine

Pour in the beef broth and white wine. Add the fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Prepare the Bread and Cheese

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Assemble and Serve

To serve, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl and sprinkle generously with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve hot!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the soup and cheese separately. The soup can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the flavor and texture.

For the bread and cheese, store them in separate containers. Toasted bread can become soggy if left in the soup. You can re-toast the bread before serving to achieve that crispy texture again. When ready to enjoy, simply reassemble the soup with the toppings and broil until bubbly.

Variations to Try

While the classic French Onion Soup recipe is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations. You can add sautéed mushrooms or garlic to the onions for an extra layer of flavor. A splash of sherry or brandy can elevate the depth of the broth, making it even more luxurious.

For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based cheeses. This allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the warm, comforting qualities of French Onion Soup without compromising on taste. The key is to adapt the recipe to your preferences while maintaining the essence of this beloved dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make French Onion Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the cheese or use a vegetarian cheese alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze French Onion Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the bread and cheese. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

→ What type of bread works best for topping?

A crusty baguette or sourdough works best for topping the soup, as it holds up well when toasted and soaked in the broth.