French
Classic French Onion Soup
A comforting and savory classic featuring sweet, slowly caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, crowned with toasted bread and melted Gruyère cheese.
Watch it madeChef Jean-Pierre · 21:29
Ingredients
- Yellow Onions4 large
- Butter3 tbsp
- Beef Broth6 cups
- Dry White Wine1/2 cup
- All-Purpose Flour2 tbsp
- Gruyère Cheese1.5 cups, grated
- Baguette Slices4-6 slices
- Fresh Thyme2 sprigs
Method
- Slice the onions thinly. In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat and add the onions. Cook slowly for 30-40 minutes until deep golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 2 minutes. Deglaze the pot with white wine, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors. Season with salt and pepper.
- Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous mound of grated Gruyère cheese.
- Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browned. Serve hot.
Common questions
Can I substitute the beef broth or make this vegetarian?
Yes. For a vegetarian version, use a rich mushroom or dark vegetable broth and add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire-style vegetarian sauce for depth. The soup will taste lighter, but still deeply savory.
How long does French onion soup take from start to finish?
Plan on about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. Most of that time is caramelizing the onions, which should be slow and patient; rushing this step hurts the flavor.
What are the most common mistakes when making French onion soup?
The biggest mistakes are cooking the onions too fast, not caramelizing them enough, using too little salt, and skipping the wine deglaze. Also avoid adding too much flour, which can make the broth pasty.
How should I store and reheat leftover French onion soup?
Store the soup base and toppings separately if possible. Refrigerate the soup for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, then add baguette and cheese just before broiling so the bread stays crisp.
What should I serve with French onion soup?
Serve it as a starter with a simple green salad, roast chicken, or steak. If serving as a main, pair with crusty bread and a crisp white wine. Keep portions smaller because it is rich and filling.