Description
This Best French Onion Soup recipe combines caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and toasted bread topped with melty Gruyère cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food for cozy nights, with rich, sweet, and savory flavors. Simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying, this French Onion Soup is a must-try classic that will warm your soul. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 bay leaf
1 baguette, sliced and toasted
2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions:
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for 25-30 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning. - Deglaze the Pot:
Stir in the butter and let it melt into the onions. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes. - Simmer the Soup:
Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove the bay leaf. - Prepare the Bread and Cheese:
Preheat the broiler. Place the toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet and top with grated Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Assemble and Serve:
Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with the cheesy bread, and broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
Cheese Variations: If Gruyère is unavailable, you can use Swiss cheese or a blend of Gruyère and Parmesan for added flavor.
Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop and top with fresh cheese-covered bread when serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop, Broiling
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 300 kcal