Name: The Most Famous French Onion Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version); 1/2 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bay leaf; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 8 slices French baguette; 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh ground black pepper to taste

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The Most Famous French Onion Soup is a timeless classic that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of caramelized onions, a rich broth, and melted cheese over a crusty baguette creates a heartwarming dish that’s full of flavor and comfort. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or a starter for a special meal, this French Onion Soup will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

The Most Famous French Onion Soup

Ingredients

4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

½ cup dry white wine

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bay leaf

2 sprigs fresh thyme

8 slices French baguette

1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh ground black pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 40 minutes. This slow caramelization is key to the soup’s rich flavor.

Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Pour in the white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to slightly reduce.

Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the soup to a simmer, and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and top each with a slice of toasted baguette. Generously sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese over the bread.

Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth to make it a vegetarian-friendly option.

Cheese Variety: While Gruyère is traditional, you can also try using Swiss cheese or even a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a different twist on the classic.

Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage for an added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. If you want to crisp up the bread and cheese again, place the soup under the broiler for a few minutes after reheating.

FAQs

How do I caramelize onions properly?

Caramelizing onions takes time and patience. You want to cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn golden brown. It should take about 40 minutes. Be patient, as this slow process creates the rich, sweet flavor you’re looking for.

Can I make French Onion Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. You can prepare the soup in advance, store it in the fridge, and then simply reheat it when ready to serve. Just toast the baguette and cheese fresh to keep the texture perfect.

Can I freeze French Onion Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the bread and cheese. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat on the stove, and top with fresh toasted bread and cheese.

What other types of cheese can I use besides Gruyère?

Gruyère is the classic choice, but you can also use Swiss cheese, Emmental, or even mozzarella for a different flavor. Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty touch, but you can mix and match according to your taste.

Can I make this recipe with a slow cooker?

Yes! You can make French Onion Soup in a slow cooker by sautéing the onions in a pan first, then transferring them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. The slow cooking method can enhance the flavors even more!

Conclusion

French Onion Soup is the epitome of comfort food. With its deep, savory flavors from the caramelized onions, rich broth, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that warms both body and soul. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to be a hit. The slow-cooked onions and perfectly melted cheese will have everyone coming back for more!

Recipe:

The Most Famous French Onion Soup

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

French Onion Soup is a timeless classic with rich, savory flavors from caramelized onions, a flavorful broth, and melted cheese over crispy baguette slices. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter for any meal.

Instructions

In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 40 minutes.
Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to slightly reduce.
Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the soup to a simmer, and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and top each with a slice of toasted baguette. Generously sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese over the bread.
Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!