Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs and Broth
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Sear the ribs on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the quartered onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add the seared short ribs back into the pot along with the beef broth, water, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer covered for 2–3 hours, until the short ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the short ribs and strain the broth. Set aside 2 cups of broth for the soup and shred the short rib meat into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the French Onion Base
- In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions caramelize to a deep golden brown, about 30–40 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with the white wine (if using) and cook until the liquid evaporates. Stir in the balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Step 3: Combine the Soup
- Add the caramelized onions to the reserved short rib broth and shredded meat.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Gruyère Toast
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each bowl with a cheesy Gruyère toast.
- For extra cheesiness, place the soup bowls under a broiler for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese further.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Hearty: The short ribs add depth and meaty flavor to the classic French onion soup.
- Golden Cheesy Toast: Gruyère cheese is melty, nutty, and pairs perfectly with the caramelized onions.
- Perfect Comfort Food: A satisfying bowl of soup for chilly nights or special occasions.
Pro Tips for Success
- Caramelizing Onions: Patience is key! Cook the onions low and slow for the best flavor.
- Short Rib Alternative: Use chuck roast if short ribs are unavailable.
- Extra Toast: Serve additional cheesy toast on the side for dipping!
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup (without the toast) for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
This French Onion Short Rib Soup with Cheesy Gruyère Toast takes the classic to a whole new level with its rich, beefy broth and irresistible cheesy topping. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner at home. 🧅🍲🧀✨