There’s something truly magical about a steaming bowl of French Onion Soup. Its rich, savory broth paired with perfectly caramelized onions and topped with a crispy, melted cheese crouton is the ultimate comfort food. This classic dish reminds us of cozy evenings spent with family, laughter filling the air, and the warmth of the kitchen creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re gathering for a special occasion or just craving something soul-soothing, this French Onion Soup will transport you to a charming French bistro right in your own home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Baguette slices
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine.
- Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth and white wine. Stir to combine.
- Add the bay leaves and fresh thyme leaves. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, until they are lightly browned and crispy.
- Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl.
- Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese generously over the top of each baguette slice.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the bread and cheese when ready to serve.
- Crockpot option: Combine caramelized onions and other ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. The toasted baguette and cheese topping is best prepared fresh when serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Substitute Gruyère cheese with Emmental or Swiss cheese for a similar melted texture.
- Replace white wine with apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.
Suggested Pairings
This delightful French Onion Soup pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a Cabernet Sauvignon. For dessert, consider a light and airy fruit tart to complete your cozy French-inspired meal.
We can’t wait to see your delicious French Onion Soup creations! Share your photos with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram @Zynahz. We love hearing from our community, so please leave your feedback and comments on our website www.zynahz.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and updates, and follow us on social media for more cooking inspiration. Bon appétit!
