Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Soup is a rich, comforting classic featuring caramelized onions simmered in a savory beef broth, topped with toasted bread and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect blend of deep flavor, hearty texture, and rustic elegance. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this soup warms the soul and impresses with every spoonful.

ingredients

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

yellow onionsbutterolive oilbeef brothdry white winethymebay leavesalt and pepperbaguette or crusty breadgruyère cheese (or Swiss, as a substitute)garlic (optional)

directions

Peel and thinly slice the onions.

In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add the onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until deeply caramelized and golden brown (about 30-40 minutes).

Add the garlic (if using) and cook for another minute.

Pour in the wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.

Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes.

Preheat the broiler.

Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and top each with a slice of toasted bread and a generous handful of grated cheese.

Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Carefully remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCaramelizing time: 40 minutesSimmering time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Add a splash of brandy or sherry for extra depth.

Swap gruyère with provolone or mozzarella for a different cheesy topping.

Top with a blend of cheeses for more flavor complexity.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup (without the bread and cheese) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.Add fresh bread and cheese when serving leftovers.To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What onions are best for French Onion Soup?

Yellow onions are ideal due to their balanced sweetness and flavor.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, substitute with extra broth or a splash of vinegar for acidity.

Do I need oven-safe bowls?

Yes, to broil the cheese topping properly. Alternatively, broil the bread with cheese separately and add it to the soup before serving.

Why does it take so long to caramelize onions?

Slow cooking brings out the natural sugars and deep flavor—rushing this step can result in burnt or uneven onions.

Can I use pre-made broth?

Yes, but choose a high-quality one for best results.

What’s the best bread for topping?

A crusty baguette or country loaf holds up well and complements the soup perfectly.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight. Just reheat and add fresh toppings when ready to serve.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup is a timeless dish that turns simple ingredients into a gourmet experience. With its deeply caramelized onions, flavorful broth, and cheesy, crusty topping, it’s a meal that brings both warmth and sophistication to the table. Ideal for cozy nights or elegant dinners, it’s a recipe worth mastering and enjoying again and again.