What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This French onion soup is a cozy classic that’s easy to make and packed with rich, savory flavor. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something so delicious.
- Deep, caramelized sweetness from slowly cooked onions that melt in your mouth.
- Cheesy, golden perfection with a bubbly layer of gruyère on toasted bread.
- Comfort in every spoonful, perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a warm hug.
Recipe
French onion soup is a classic dish known for its rich, savory broth and caramelized onions topped with melted cheese and crusty bread. This comforting soup is perfect for cold weather and makes a delicious starter or main course.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
- 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized (about 40 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in white wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Add beef broth, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
- Place bowls under the broiler until cheese is bubbly and golden (about 3-5 minutes). Serve immediately.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, use homemade beef broth.
- If Gruyère is unavailable, Swiss or provolone cheese can be substituted.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Oven-safe soup bowls
- Broiler
Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cuisine
French
Serving
4-6 servings
Nutrition
French onion soup is a hearty and flavorful dish. Here’s its nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Protein | 14 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing French onion soup with a crusty baguette or sourdough for that perfect crunch, but you can’t go wrong with a slice of toasted rye either. For cheese, I’m a sucker for Gruyère or Swiss melted on top, though a sharp cheddar adds a fun twist if you’re feeling adventurous. Trust me, the right bread and cheese combo can take this soup from great to unforgettable.
Bread Selection
When it comes to French onion soup, the bread you choose isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a star player. I always go for a crusty baguette or a rustic sourdough because they hold up well under the broth and cheese. Stale bread works surprisingly well, too, since it soaks up the soup without turning mushy. I like to slice it thick, toast it lightly, and let it float on top like a cozy raft. Trust me, the right bread makes all the difference—it’s the crispy, chewy foundation that turns a simple bowl into something unforgettable. Don’t skip this step!
Cheese Pairings
While the bread sets the stage, the cheese is what steals the show in French onion soup—it’s the gooey, golden crown that ties everything together. I always reach for Gruyère, its nutty, melty perfection clinging to every spoonful. If you’re feeling fancy, a mix of Gruyère and Emmental adds depth, while Swiss keeps things classic. For a bolder twist, try Comté or even a sharp aged cheddar. Just avoid anything too soft—it’ll disappear into the broth. And don’t skimp! Pile it high, broil until bubbly, and watch as that cheesy magic turns soup into a masterpiece.
