Easy French Onion Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Soup offers a rich and hearty flavor with the sweet depth of caramelized onions. It’s made with pantry staples, making it easy to prepare, and can be customized with different types of bread and cheese. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)

• 2 cups water

• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth (additional)

• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4–6 slices of baguette, toasted

• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Swiss)

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

Directions

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.

2. Make the Soup Base: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add an extra 1/2 cup of beef broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add the remaining broth, water, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

3. Prepare the Topping: Toast slices of baguette until golden. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted bread, and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère cheese.

4. Broil: Place the bowls under a broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and add a splash of soy sauce for depth.

• Cheese Options: Try using mozzarella, fontina, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free bread and check the broth for gluten content.

• Add Protein: Add shredded chicken or sausage for a heartier soup.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup (without the bread and cheese) for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm on the stovetop and add fresh bread and cheese before serving.

FAQs

What’s the best onion for this soup?

Yellow onions are traditional, but sweet onions can give a milder flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

What if I don’t have oven-safe bowls?

You can broil the cheese on a baking sheet and then place it on the soup before serving.

How do I avoid burning the onions?

Cook over medium-low heat, stir often, and be patient—caramelizing takes time.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and has a smoother texture.

What’s the difference between French Onion Soup and regular onion soup?

French Onion Soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and a cheese-topped bread crust, while regular onion soup may vary in preparation.

Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, though the flavor will be lighter with chicken broth.

How do I make the soup thicker?

You can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water or use less broth for a thicker soup.

Can I add mushrooms or other veggies?

Yes, mushrooms or leeks can add extra flavor to the soup.

Conclusion

Easy French Onion Soup is a comforting and flavorful classic that is both simple to make and impressive to serve. With its rich broth, caramelized onions, and cheesy topping, it’s a dish everyone will love. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire!