Classic French Onion Soup Recipe

 

There is something truly magical about a warm bowl of French onion soup. This timeless classic comes from French cuisine and has been loved for centuries for its deep, rich flavor and comforting warmth. What makes this soup so special is its beautifully caramelized onions slowly cooked until they become sweet, golden, and incredibly aromatic. Combined with a flavorful broth, toasted bread, and a thick layer of melted cheese, this dish transforms simple ingredients into an elegant and unforgettable meal.

French onion soup is perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or when you want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish made right in your kitchen. The secret to achieving its signature taste is patience — allowing the onions to caramelize slowly brings out their natural sweetness and creates the soup’s iconic depth of flavor. Once topped with crispy bread and bubbling cheese, every spoonful becomes rich, savory, and satisfying.

Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this French onion soup is guaranteed to warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

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📝 Ingredients

• 4 large onions (thinly sliced)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 baguette (sliced)
• 1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese (or mozzarella + parmesan mix)
• Fresh thyme (optional)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook slowly for about 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle sugar over the onions to help caramelization.
4. Continue cooking until onions become deep golden brown and soft.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in white wine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to enhance flavor.
7. Add beef broth, salt, pepper, and thyme if using.
8. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

9. Toast baguette slices in the oven or pan until crispy and golden.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

10. Pour soup into oven-safe bowls.
11. Place toasted bread slices on top of each bowl.
12. Generously sprinkle grated cheese over the bread.
13. Broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes until cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup hot and fresh directly from the oven. Pair it with a simple salad or enjoy it on its own for a hearty, comforting meal.

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