Are you ready to indulge in a warm, hearty bowl of deliciousness? French onion soup is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich, savory flavors and delightful cheesy topping. Follow this recipe to create a classic French onion soup that will impress your family and friends!

The BEST French Onion Soup Recipe

French onion soup is a timeless classic that has been cherished for generations. Its deep flavors come from slowly caramelizing onions, combined with rich beef broth, and topped with melted cheese. Here’s how you can make this delectable dish right at home.

Delicious bowl of French Onion SoupIngredients

  • 4 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Fresh thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Baguette or crusty bread, sliced
  • 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions along with the salt and sugar to help with caramelization. Stir occasionally for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are golden brown and soft.
  2. Add the flour to the onions, stirring for about 1-2 minutes to incorporate. This will help thicken the soup.
  3. Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the wine mostly evaporates.
  4. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.
  6. While the soup is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the slices of baguette on a baking sheet, and toast in the oven until golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.
  7. To serve, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with a slice of toasted bread, and generously sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese on top.
  8. Place the bowls on a baking tray and pop them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
  9. Garnish with additional thyme if desired, and enjoy your homemade French onion soup!

This classic French onion soup is not only comforting but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. Dive into this savory delight and savor every bite!