Classic French Onion Soup

Name: Classic French Onion Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 8 cups beef broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 teaspoons thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 baguette, sliced; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm your soul with this timeless Classic French Onion Soup, featuring caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a comforting starter or a hearty main, this recipe captures the essence of French cuisine, elevating your dinner experience with its savory depth and irresistible aroma.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-18T05:49:09.184Z

This Classic French Onion Soup recipe is a beloved dish that warms the heart. Its complex flavors are achieved through careful caramelization of onions and a slow simmer of quality beef broth.

The Art of Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is the heart of French onion soup. This process transforms the sharpness of the onions into a sweet, deep flavor that is essential to the soup’s character. As you cook, the onions release their natural sugars, which slowly brown and develop a rich, savory taste. This can take time, but patience pays off—let the onions cook low and slow for that perfect golden finish.

It's important to stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Using a mix of butter and olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps achieve the ideal cooking temperature. Be prepared for a slightly longer cooking time, but the results will be a deeply flavored base that will elevate your soup to extraordinary heights.

Choosing the Right Cheese

The cheese is a crucial component of classic French onion soup. Traditional recipes often call for Gruyère due to its excellent melting properties and nutty flavor. When melted, Gruyère creates a beautifully gooey topping that complements the rich broth and caramelized onions perfectly. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Emmental or a combination of different cheeses for added depth.

When broiling your soup for that golden crust, keep a close eye on it! Cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt in the blink of an eye. Broiling for just a few minutes can provide the perfect bubbly texture that makes this dish all the more inviting.

Serving Suggestions

For an authentic French experience, serve your classic French onion soup in individual oven-safe bowls. This not only makes an eye-catching presentation but also retains heat well, keeping the soup warm until the last bite. Pair the soup with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

If you're looking to add a twist, consider incorporating toppings like truffle oil or sautéed mushrooms before broiling. These enhancements not only add layers of taste but also elevate the dish into a gourmet experience, making it a standout choice for dinner parties or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Soup

4 large onions, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
8 cups beef broth
1 cup dry white wine
2 teaspoons thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

1 baguette, sliced
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.

Simmer the Soup

Add the beef broth, white wine, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Toast the Bread

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted bread, and generously sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Classic French Onion Soup!

Nutritional Benefits

French onion soup, with its base of wholesome onions and beef broth, offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Onions are rich in antioxidants, promoting heart health and boosting the immune system. The broth provides essential minerals and helps keep you hydrated, making this soup not only satisfying but also nourishing.

Additionally, using low-sodium broth can make this dish lighter while still retaining its full flavor. Feel free to customize your ingredients to suit dietary preferences, such as opting for vegetable broth and a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover soup, storing it properly is essential for maintaining flavor and quality. Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to leave out the cheese and bread until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

When reheating, gently warm the soup in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you prefer to enjoy the cheesy topping again, simply pour the soup into individual bowls, top with fresh bread and cheese, and broil until bubbly for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat or cheese toppings.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.