French Onion Soup
This classic French Onion Soup is rich and hearty, featuring deeply caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and a layer of melted Gruyère cheese on toasted baguette slices. Perfect for a comforting meal.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Ladle
- Oven-safe bowls or crocks
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 large yellow onions Thinly sliced.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar Helps with caramelizing the onions.
- 1 tsp salt More to taste.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced (optional).
- ½ cup dry white wine Optional, for deglazing.
- 8 cups beef broth Or use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ tsp dried thyme
For the Topping
- 4 slices baguette Sliced, preferably a day-old baguette.
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese Or Swiss cheese as an alternative.
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a teaspoon of sugar, and cook slowly for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- If using garlic, add it during the last 5 minutes of caramelizing the onions.
- Pour in the dry white wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Let it reduce slightly.
- Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your broiler. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks. Top each bowl with a slice of baguette and generously sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over the top.
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Carefully remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with additional thyme or parsley if desired.
Notes
This soup is best served immediately. It can be made ahead and reheated, but the toasted baguette topping should be added just before serving for the best texture. Enjoy with a crisp green salad or a crusty baguette on the side!