French Onion Soup Recipe – A Timeless Classic

French Onion Soup is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that has stood the test of time. Originating from France, this soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, white wine, and topped with a cheesy, crispy baguette. It is a perfect combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors with a heartwarming aroma. This dish is an excellent choice for cold winter nights, special occasions, or when you simply crave something indulgent and delicious.

Making a French Onion Soup Recipe from scratch is easier than you might think. With patience and a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this bistro classic right at home. Below, we provide a detailed recipe, including preparation time, cooking instructions, nutrition information, and everything you need to know to make this dish perfect every time.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 1 hour
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Cuisine: French
• Course: Soup
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 420 kcal

Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Oven-safe bowls
• Baking sheet
• Ladle
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended)
• 6 cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)

For the Topping:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelizing the Onions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir to coat the onions in butter.
3. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they become soft and deeply caramelized. If they begin to stick to the bottom, add a splash of water.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Deglazing the Pot

5. Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to simmer until it reduces by half (about 3 minutes).

Step 3: Simmering the Soup

6. Add the beef broth, fresh thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce.
7. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes to develop flavors.
8. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving.

Step 4: Preparing the Bread Topping

9. While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until crisp.

Step 5: Assembling the Soup

11. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
12. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl.
13. Sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese and Parmesan cheese.
14. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serving the Soup

15. Let the soup cool for a few minutes before serving.
16. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves (optional) and enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Sugar: 8g

Tips for the Best French Onion Soup

• Use Good Quality Broth: A rich beef broth makes all the difference. Homemade or high-quality store-bought broth will yield the best results.
• Slowly Caramelize the Onions: Rushing this step can prevent the deep, sweet flavor from developing properly.
• Choose the Right Cheese: Gruyère is the traditional choice because it melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Bread: The crispy baguette soaks up the soup and creates a wonderful texture contrast.
• Add Depth of Flavor: Worcestershire sauce or a splash of brandy can enhance the taste.

Conclusion

This French Onion Soup Recipe is a timeless dish that brings warmth, comfort, and indulgence to your table. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, its rich flavors and gooey cheese topping make it an unforgettable meal. Serve it with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dining experience. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of classic French cuisine!