Name: Classic French Onion Soup: 7 Steps to Comforting Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried); 1 bay leaf; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 8 slices baguette or sourdough; 2 cups Gruyère cheese, freshly grated

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French Onion Soup is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its rich layers of caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and gooey melted Gruyère cheese, this soup is the epitome of cozy dining. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or a quiet dinner at home, this homemade French Onion Soup recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this French staple!

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup

This French Onion Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Rich, complex flavors that develop from slow-cooked onions.
Perfectly cheesy with a generous topping of Gruyère cheese.
Easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners.
Can be customized with various toppings like croutons or herbs.
Suitable for vegetarians when using vegetable broth.
A comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.

This homemade French onion soup captures the essence of traditional French cuisine, showcasing the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

Ingredients for French Onion Soup

Gather these items:

6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups beef broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)

1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 slices baguette or sourdough
2 cups Gruyère cheese, freshly grated

How to Make French Onion Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Melt butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until deeply caramelized, about 40–45 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer until the wine reduces slightly.
Step 4: Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
Step 5: While the soup simmers, toast the baguette slices until golden and firm.
Step 6: Preheat broiler. Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with toasted bread, and cover generously with Gruyère cheese.
Step 7: Place bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Classic French Onion Soup: 7 Steps to Comforting Perfection - French Onion Soup - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best French Onion Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of onions for a more complex flavor profile.
Don’t rush the caramelization process; it’s key to the soup’s depth.
For a vegetarian version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
Fresh herbs like thyme enhance the flavor significantly.

Best Ways to Serve French Onion Soup

Enjoy this classic dish with:

Crusty bread or homemade croutons for added texture.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
A side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat French Onion Soup

To store, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a bowl. You can also prepare it ahead of time for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Soup

What is French Onion Soup?

French Onion Soup is a classic French dish made with caramelized onions and beef broth, topped with melted cheese and toasted bread.

Can I make French Onion Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the soup and refrigerate it. Just reheat and add cheese before serving for a delicious meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Onion Soup?

To avoid mistakes, ensure onions are caramelized properly and don’t rush the cooking process. Use quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Variations of French Onion Soup You Can Try

For those looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

Try a vegetarian French onion soup using vegetable broth.

Make a cheesy French onion soup by adding different types of cheese.
Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cayenne for a kick.

Classic French Onion Soup: 7 Steps to Comforting Perfection - French Onion Soup - additional detail

For more information about the ingredients used in this recipe, check out our about page. If you’re interested in the nutritional aspects, you can refer to our privacy policy. For tips on cooking techniques, visit our terms of use. You can also learn more about the benefits of onions on Healthline. Lastly, for any inquiries, feel free to check our contact page.