Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Soup is a timeless comfort dish known for its rich, savory flavor and deep caramelized onion base. Topped with toasted bread and melted cheese, it’s both elegant and hearty. Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup offers a satisfying balance of sweet onions, robust broth, and creamy, bubbly cheese.

ingredients

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

yellow onionsunsalted buttersaltolive oilbeef stock (or broth)dry white winebay leaffresh thymegarlicclovesblack pepperbaguette or crusty breadgruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)

directions

Slice the onions thinly.

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

Add the sliced onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, until deeply caramelized—about 30-40 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pour in the wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.

Add beef stock, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes to blend flavors.

Preheat your oven broiler.

Toast baguette slices until golden on both sides.

Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with toasted bread and a generous layer of grated cheese.

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

Remove carefully and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 1 hourTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Add a splash of brandy or cognac for a deeper flavor.

Try different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella if gruyère is unavailable.

Top with extra thyme or parsley before serving for a fresh touch.

Use gluten-free bread and broth for a gluten-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Keep the toasted bread and cheese separate for best results.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.To re-melt the cheese topping, reassemble and broil just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken stock instead of beef?

Yes, but the flavor will be lighter. Beef stock gives the traditional depth.

Why do the onions take so long to cook?

Slow cooking draws out their natural sugars, creating the rich caramelization that defines the soup.

What’s the best cheese for French Onion Soup?

Gruyère is classic, but Swiss, Emmental, or even sharp provolone work well.

Do I need to use wine?

Wine adds depth, but you can omit it or use extra broth as a substitute.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, it’s even better the next day as flavors continue to develop.

What kind of onions should I use?

Yellow onions are ideal for their balance of sweetness and flavor.

Can I freeze French Onion Soup?

Yes, but freeze without the bread and cheese. Add those fresh when reheating.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup is a classic that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Its rich broth, sweet onions, and cheesy bread topping make it a soul-warming favorite. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this soup delivers comfort and elegance in every spoonful.