Description
French Onion Soup is a rich, savory, and comforting dish made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese over a crispy baguette. This classic French recipe is perfect for cozy nights and special occasions. With its deep, umami flavor and gooey cheese topping, it’s a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
the Soup:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps with caramelization)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for a slightly thicker soup)
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
the Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced into thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
Instructions
1: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30–40 minutes, until onions are deep golden brown.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
2: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
- Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes, until the liquid reduces slightly.
3: Simmer the Soup
- Stir in flour (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving.
4: Prepare the Topping
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush baguette slices with melted butter and bake for 5 minutes until crisp.
- Remove from oven and top each slice with shredded Gruyère cheese.
5: Assemble and Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
- Place cheese-topped baguette slices on top of each bowl.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 5 MIN
- Cook Time: 15 MIN