Classic French Onion Soup

Warm, rich, and deeply flavorful, Classic French Onion Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Made with caramelized onions, a savory beef broth, and topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, this soup is a timeless dish that’s perfect for chilly days or a cozy dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Classic French Onion Soup

• Rich and Flavorful: Caramelized onions bring a deep sweetness, perfectly balanced by the savory broth.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Topped with toasted bread and melted cheese, this soup is as hearty as it is delicious.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can make an impressive, restaurant-quality dish at home.

Ingredients for Classic French Onion Soup

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth (or a mix of beef and chicken broth)
• ½ cup dry white wine (or extra broth)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese (or a mix of both)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Broiler-safe soup bowls

How to Make Classic French Onion Soup

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Sprinkle the onions with sugar and continue cooking for another 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Lower the heat if needed to prevent burning.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Deglaze the Pot

1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Pour in the white wine (or extra broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, and simmer until the wine has mostly evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

1. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
2. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Toast the Baguette Slices

1. While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until crisp and golden. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil the Soup

1. Preheat your broiler.
2. Ladle the hot soup into broiler-safe bowls, leaving room for the bread and cheese.
3. Place 1-2 toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl of soup, then sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
4. Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Carefully remove the bowls from the broiler (they will be very hot!) and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this classic French Onion Soup.

Tips for the Best French Onion Soup

• Take Your Time with the Onions: Caramelizing the onions is key to the flavor of this soup. Be patient, as it can take up to 40 minutes for the onions to reach a deep, golden-brown color.
• Choose the Right Cheese: Gruyère cheese is traditional for this soup, but Swiss or even mozzarella can be used if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Make It Ahead: You can make the soup base ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat and add the bread and cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
A: Yes! While beef broth adds a deep, savory flavor, you can use vegetable or chicken broth for a lighter version.

Q2: What’s the best bread for French Onion Soup?
A: A sturdy baguette works best because it holds up well to the broth. Toast it to ensure it doesn’t get soggy in the soup.

Q3: Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the soup (without the bread and cheese) for up to 3 months. Reheat and add the toppings when ready to serve.

Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor!

Classic French Onion Soup is the perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a dish that feels both fancy and comforting, making it a great choice for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this timeless soup.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g

Enjoy a warm, cheesy bowl of French Onion Soup, and savor every spoonful!