Easy French Onion Soup is a simplified version of the timeless French classic, offering rich, caramelized onions simmered in a savory beef broth and topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese. With its deep flavor and rustic charm, this dish brings restaurant-quality comfort straight to your kitchen, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This French onion soup is everything you want in a comforting bowl: deep, savory flavor, melt-in-your-mouth onions, and a satisfying cheesy topping. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and doesn’t require complex techniques, yet the result is gourmet-worthy. Ideal for chilly evenings, this soup is sure to impress guests and please the whole family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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3 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon sugar
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4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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6 cups beef broth
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 baguette, sliced and toasted
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1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Directions
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Caramelize the Onions:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onions and sugar, stirring frequently for 25–30 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. -
Add Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the beef broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes to deepen the flavor. -
Prepare the Bowls:
Preheat the oven’s broiler. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place 1–2 toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl of soup. -
Add the Cheese and Broil:
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over the baguette slices. Place the bowls under the broiler for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with a golden finish. -
Serve:
Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve immediately while hot.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
Variations
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Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth for a meat-free version.
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Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of cheeses if Gruyère is unavailable.
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Add Wine: A splash of dry white wine or sherry can enhance the broth’s depth.
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Herb Variation: Add a bay leaf or fresh thyme sprig while simmering for added aroma.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread for the topping and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover soup (without the bread and cheese topping) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. Add fresh toasted baguette slices and cheese before broiling for serving. The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made a day in advance. Add the bread and cheese just before serving.
What onions are best for this soup?
Yellow onions are ideal due to their balance of sweetness and depth when caramelized.
Can I skip the sugar in the recipe?
The sugar helps accelerate caramelization but can be omitted if preferred.
What bread should I use?
A crusty baguette works best, but sourdough or Italian bread can also be used.
Is it necessary to use oven-safe bowls?
Yes, for broiling the cheese. If unavailable, broil the baguette slices separately with cheese, then place them on the soup.
How can I tell when the onions are fully caramelized?
They should be soft, golden brown, and have a sweet, rich aroma.
Can I use store-bought broth?
Yes, but opt for a high-quality, low-sodium beef broth for the best flavor.
What’s a good substitute for Gruyère cheese?
Swiss cheese, Emmental, or provolone are excellent alternatives.
Can I freeze French onion soup?
Yes, freeze the soup base only—add bread and cheese when reheating for best results.
What pairs well with this soup?
A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a glass of dry white wine are excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
Easy French Onion Soup brings the warmth and sophistication of a classic French bistro dish to your own kitchen. With caramelized onions, savory broth, and a crisp, cheesy topping, this comforting soup is both rustic and elegant. Whether for a special occasion or a weeknight indulgence, it’s a satisfying recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Print
Easy French Onion Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy French Onion Soup brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table with minimal effort. Featuring caramelized onions in a savory beef broth, topped with crusty baguette slices and melty Gruyère cheese, it’s the ultimate cozy comfort food for soup season or special occasions.
Ingredients
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3 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon sugar
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4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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6 cups beef broth
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 baguette, sliced and toasted
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1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Instructions
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In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar; cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until onions are caramelized and golden brown.
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Add beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes.
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Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with toasted baguette slices and shredded Gruyère.
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Broil for 3–5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Carefully remove from oven and serve hot.
Notes
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For deeper flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine or brandy before adding the broth.
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Use oven-safe crocks to avoid spills and maintain heat.
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Substitute mozzarella if Gruyère isn’t available.
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