French Onion Soup

Looking for a delicious, hearty, and classic French Onion Soup recipe? This homemade version features sweet caramelized onions simmered in a rich beef broth, topped with a cheesy baguette slice of melted Gruyère. Perfect for chilly evenings, this French onion soup recipe is easy to make and bursting with flavor. With ingredients like butter, wine, and thyme, it’s an indulgent comfort food ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for dinner or serving it as an appetizer, this French Onion Soup will impress family and guests alike.

Ingredients

• 4 large yellow onions (see notes for pound conversion)
• 2 large sweet Vidalia onions
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• ¾ cup dry white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
• 3 tablespoons flour (optional)
• 4 cups beef broth (high quality is key)
• 1 beef bouillon cube or 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
• 6 slices Gruyere cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions:
   • Slice the onions into ¼-inch thick slices. Avoid slicing thinner to ensure they don’t become too stringy after cooking. Use a mandoline slicer for ease.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
   • Melt the butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat until it begins to foam. This step allows the water in the butter to evaporate, leaving it clarified.
   • Add the sliced onions and toss to coat evenly in butter. Cook uncovered, stirring every 10-15 minutes, for up to 2 hours or longer, until deeply caramelized. If brown residue forms at the bottom of the pot, deglaze with a splash of wine and scrape with a silicone spatula as needed.
3. Incorporate the Flour and Wine:
   • Once the onions are richly brown and sweet, sprinkle with flour (if using) and cook for 2 minutes. Add any remaining wine and increase the heat to medium-high, tossing the onions frequently.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Add the beef broth, bouillon, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine. Simmer uncovered over medium heat for 45 minutes, leaving the lid slightly cracked.
5. Prepare the Baguette:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Slice the baguette into ½-inch thick slices. Brush each slice with olive oil and bake for about 5 minutes.
   • Increase the oven temperature to 450°F. Top each slice with Gruyere cheese and bake until the cheese melts, bubbles, and turns golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems from the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the cheesy baguettes, and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food: Warm, savory, and rich in flavor, perfect for cold days.
• Elegant and Versatile: Ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.
• Deep Flavor: Slow-caramelized onions provide unmatched depth and sweetness.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe with your preferred ingredients and toppings.

Tips

• Caramelizing Onions: Patience is key! Slow cooking ensures maximum sweetness and flavor.
• High-Quality Broth: Use the best beef broth you can find for a richer soup base.
• Wine Substitute: If avoiding alcohol, replace wine with additional chicken broth.
• Cheese Options: While Gruyere is traditional, you can use Swiss or Fontina as alternatives.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and bread for a celiac-friendly recipe.
• Herbs: Add a sprig of rosemary for an earthy twist.
• Bread Substitute: Use sourdough or ciabatta if a baguette isn’t available.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, the soup can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Q: Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
A: Yes, but freeze the soup without the bread and cheese. Add fresh baguettes and cheese when reheating.

Q: How do I achieve the perfect caramelized onions?
A: Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally, and deglaze with wine or broth as needed to prevent burning.

Serving

• Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
• Garnish with extra thyme or freshly cracked black pepper for a sophisticated touch.

Suggestions

• Make extra cheesy baguettes for dipping.
• Double the batch and freeze portions for easy reheating.
• Use the soup as a base for French Onion Chicken or as a rich gravy for beef dishes.

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SEO Description:
Master the art of French Onion Soup with this foolproof recipe featuring deeply caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and cheesy baguette toasts. Perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings, this classic soup is packed with bold, comforting flavors and easy-to-follow tips!