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French Onion Soup

A warm, cozy dish made with caramelized onions, rich broth, melty cheese, and crusty bread, perfect for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Soup
Cuisine: French
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 3 pounds yellow onions, thinly sliced About 75% yellow onions and 25% sweet onions for a balanced flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons butter Generous knob for caramelizing.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil To prevent butter from burning.
  • 1 pinch salt To draw moisture from onions.
  • 4 cups beef broth Classic for rich flavor; can sub with chicken or vegetable broth.
  • 1 splash dry white wine Optional for adding depth.
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme For flavor.
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf For flavor.
  • 1 baguette sturdy bread, sliced For topping.
  • 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded Classic melty cheese.

Method
 

Caramelizing Onions
  1. In a wide pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally.
  3. Cook the onions slowly for 35 to 50 minutes until they are deep golden brown and caramelized.
  4. If the onions browning too quickly, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze.
Making the Soup
  1. Once the onions are caramelized, add the broth, wine, thyme, and bay leaf.
  2. Bring to a simmer and let cook for at least 20 minutes to meld flavors.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving
  1. Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
  2. Top with slices of toasted baguette and a generous amount of cheese.
  3. Broil until bubbly and golden brown.
  4. Garnish with fresh thyme or chives before serving.

Notes

Store the soup without toppings for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze without bread/cheese for up to 3 months. Adjust seasoning as needed when reheating.