French Onion Soup on a plate

Soups Salads Vegetables · Medium

French Onion Soup

This French onion soup slowly caramelizes onions into a deeply savory broth, topped with toasted bread and melted Gruyère, ready in about 1 hour.

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15Prep min
45Cook min
60Total min
  • 4 largeyellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoonsbutter
  • 1 tablespoonolive oil
  • 6 cupsbeef broth
  • 1/2 cupdry white wine or sherry (optional)
  • 2fresh thyme sprigs
  • 4baguette slices, toasted
  • 1.5 cupsshredded Gruyère cheese
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  1. 1Melt the butter with olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the sliced onions.
  2. 2Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-35 minutes, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
  3. 3Deglaze with the wine, if using, scraping up any browned bits, and cook for 2 minutes.
  4. 4Add the beef broth and thyme, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  5. 5Season with salt and pepper, ladle into oven-safe bowls, and top each with a toasted baguette slice and cheese.
  6. 6Broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then serve.

Make it yours

  • Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • Add a splash of brandy for extra depth.
  • Use Swiss cheese if Gruyère isn't available.

Good with

  • A simple green salad
  • Extra crusty bread
  • A glass of dry white wine

Good questions, answered.

How do I keep the onions from burning while caramelizing?

Stir occasionally and lower the heat if they start browning too quickly; caramelizing properly takes time and patience.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, make the soup base ahead and refrigerate; add the bread and cheese and broil just before serving.

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