This French Onion Soup is a timeless classic, known for its deeply caramelized onions, rich broth, and gooey cheese-topped bread. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or when you're craving a hearty, flavorful meal. Follow this step-by-step guide to make an authentic bowl of this delicious soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 6 cups beef broth (or a mix of beef and chicken broth)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyรจre cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Stir to coat the onions in the fat.
- Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30–40 minutes, or until they are deeply golden and caramelized. Reduce the heat if they start to burn.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Add the beef broth, thyme sprigs, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Preheat your oven's broiler.
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden.
- Top each slice with a generous amount of Gruyรจre and Parmesan cheese. Broil again for 1–2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
- Float a cheesy baguette slice on top of each bowl of soup.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2–4 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect French Onion Soup
- Patience with Caramelizing: Take your time with the onions—the deeper the caramelization, the richer the flavor.
- Use Quality Broth: A good beef broth adds depth and makes the soup more flavorful.
- Cheese Choice: Gruyรจre is traditional, but you can use Swiss, mozzarella, or a mix for variety.
- Make Ahead: The soup base can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving. Add the bread and cheese topping just before serving.
Why You’ll Love It
This French Onion Soup is:
- Rich and Savory: Caramelized onions and broth create an irresistible depth of flavor.
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for cold days or when you need a hearty meal.
- Indulgent: The cheesy, crusty bread topping takes it to the next level.
- Elegant Yet Simple: Great for casual meals or special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad for a light, balanced meal.
- Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine or red wine to complement the flavors.
- Serve as an appetizer before a main course like roasted chicken or steak.