Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French Onion Soup is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich and flavorful caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and the irresistible topping of melted Gruyère cheese, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings. The toasted baguette adds texture, making each bite a delightful combination of soft, cheesy goodness and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or indulging in a comforting dish, this French Onion Soup will never disappoint.

Ingredients

• 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
• 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

Directions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized, about 40 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the dry white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate the flavor.
4. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Preheat the oven broiler.
7. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and generously sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese.
8. Broil the soup until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning the cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Add Herbs: For extra depth of flavor, you can add fresh thyme or a sprig of rosemary in addition to the dried thyme.
• Cheese Options: While Gruyère is the classic choice, you can substitute with Swiss cheese, Comté, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist.
• Wine Alternatives: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can store the soup and the toasted baguette separately for optimal texture.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. For the cheesy topping, you can broil it again for a few minutes to re-crisp the bread and melt the cheese.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make French Onion Soup in advance? Yes, you can make the soup a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the bread and cheese before broiling when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze French Onion Soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen without the bread and cheese. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat and add fresh toasted bread and cheese before broiling.
3. Do I have to caramelize the onions for 40 minutes? Caramelizing the onions slowly over medium heat is essential to developing their deep, sweet flavor. You can reduce the cooking time slightly, but the longer you cook them, the better the flavor.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese? Gruyère is the traditional choice, but you can substitute with Swiss, Emmental, or even mozzarella for a different taste. However, Gruyère gives the best melt and flavor.
5. Can I use a different type of bread for the topping? While a baguette is classic, you can use any crusty bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, for the toasted topping.
6. Is French Onion Soup gluten-free? Traditional French Onion Soup is not gluten-free due to the bread. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure your broth is also gluten-free.
7. What can I serve with French Onion Soup? French Onion Soup pairs beautifully with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve with a sandwich or a plate of charcuterie.
8. Can I make this recipe without wine? Yes, you can omit the wine and use extra beef broth, though the wine adds a layer of depth to the flavor. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also provide some acidity in place of the wine.
9. What if I don’t have oven-safe bowls? If you don’t have oven-safe bowls, you can melt the cheese in a separate baking dish and then ladle it over the soup when serving.
10. Can I use pre-sliced onions to save time? While pre-sliced onions can save time, they may not offer the same flavor as freshly sliced onions that you caramelize yourself. For the best taste, slicing the onions yourself is recommended.

Conclusion

Classic French Onion Soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and gooey Gruyère cheese creates a soul-satisfying experience that’s perfect for chilly days. With its simple ingredients and slow-cooked flavors, this French Onion Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, it’s a dish that will impress every time.

Print