Easy French Onion Soup: A Timeless Classic Made Simple

 




How to Make Easy French Onion Soup

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat them in the butter mixture.
  3. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelized. Add the sugar halfway through to enhance the caramelization, if desired.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

  1. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  2. Deglaze the pot with the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Add the beef broth, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

  1. Preheat your oven’s broiler.
  2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 1–2 minutes per side until golden.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

  1. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted baguette slice (or two) on top of the soup in each bowl.
  2. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over the bread.
  3. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they’ll be hot!) and serve immediately. Garnish with a few thyme leaves for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips for Making the Best French Onion Soup

  1. Choose the Right Onions: Yellow onions are ideal for this recipe because they caramelize beautifully and have a natural sweetness.
  2. Take Your Time: Don’t rush the caramelization process. Low and slow is key to achieving deep, rich flavor.
  3. Use Oven-Safe Bowls: If you don’t have broiler-safe bowls, you can toast the bread and melt the cheese on a baking sheet, then place it on top of the soup just before serving.
  4. Experiment with Cheese: While Gruyère is traditional, you can use Swiss, Fontina, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Easy French Onion Soup recipe simplifies the process without compromising on flavor. The combination of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or cozy nights in.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with:

  • A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • A side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
  • A glass of dry white wine or light red wine for an elevated dining experience.