Name: French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese: A Comforting Classic
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1½ pounds yellow onions, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced; ½ teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 6 cups beef broth, low sodium or no sodium added; 1 cup dry red wine (Pinot Noir, Côtes du Rhône, or Merlot); 2 bay leaves; 3 sprigs thyme; 3 tablespoons cognac; 8 slices French baguette; 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, combining deeply caramelized onions simmered in rich beef broth with a splash of red wine, herbs, and topped with toasted baguette slices and a generous layer of melted Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. This classic French onion soup recipe is the perfect way to warm your soul on a chilly day or serve as a sophisticated starter for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup with

This French Onion Soup Recipe offers not just flavor but also a myriad of benefits. First, it’s deeply satisfying and comforting, making it a perfect dish for cold nights. Second, the caramelized onions provide a naturally sweet flavor that elevates the dish. Third, using quality beef broth and red wine adds depth to the flavor profile. Fourth, the traditional French onion soup ingredients are simple yet create a gourmet experience. Fifth, it’s a great way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Sixth, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting the beef broth, appealing to various diets.

Ingredients for French Onion Soup with

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1½ pounds yellow onions, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced
½ teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
6 cups beef broth, low sodium or no sodium added
1 cup dry red wine (Pinot Noir, Côtes du Rhône, or Merlot)
2 bay leaves
3 sprigs thyme
3 tablespoons cognac
8 slices French baguette
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

How to Make French Onion Soup with Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large heavy pot such as a Dutch oven, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat them evenly in the oil. Cover the pot with a lid and cook for 20 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The onions should turn transparent after this initial cooking.
Step 2: Remove the lid, then stir in the sugar and salt. Continue cooking uncovered for another 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions should turn a deep golden brown and develop a sweet, rich flavor.
Step 3: Add the flour and remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the pot. Stir well and cook for 2 to 3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and slightly thicken the mixture.
Step 4: Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the pot and stir thoroughly, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Cook for about 1 minute until the liquid begins to evaporate.
Step 5: Add the remaining broth, red wine, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs to the pot. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs afterward.
Step 7: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the cognac to finish the base.
Step 8: Preheat your broiler. Lightly brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast them under the broiler for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until golden. Ladle soup into ovenproof bowls, sprinkle about 1 cup of Gruyère cheese over the top, then place the toasted bread slices onto the cheese. Top the bread with remaining Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
Step 9: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Transfer the bowls to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese melts and starts to brown lightly. Serve hot and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Onion Soup with

Keep these in mind:

Perfectly hearty and comforting, it’s an elegant soup for chilly days.
For added depth, consider using a mix of cheeses; Gruyère pairs beautifully with Provolone.
For an easy French onion soup, you can use a slow cooker for the caramelization process.
Don’t rush the caramelization; it’s key to developing the rich flavor.

French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese: A Comforting Classic - French Onion Soup with - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve French Onion Soup with

There are several delightful ways to enjoy French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese. For a classic touch, serve it with a fresh side salad. Alternatively, pair it with a glass of dry red wine to complement the rich flavors. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an added burst of freshness.

How to Store and Reheat French Onion Soup with

To store, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove and add a little extra broth if it thickens. For meal prep enthusiasts, this soup is a great idea as it can be made ahead and frozen!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Soup with

What’s the secret to perfect French Onion Soup with?

The secret to perfect French Onion Soup lies in the slow caramelization of the onions. This process enhances their natural sweetness and creates a rich flavor base essential for a classic soup.

Can I make French Onion Soup with ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare homemade French Onion Soup ahead of time. Just follow the recipe until it’s time to broil the cheese. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Onion Soup with?

To avoid mistakes, ensure the onions are cooked slowly to achieve a deep caramel color. Also, don’t skimp on the broth or wine, which are vital for flavor depth in your gourmet French onion soup.

Variations of French Onion Soup with You Can Try

For an exciting twist, consider these variations: use vegetarian French onion soup by substituting vegetable broth, or try a rich version with French Onion Soup with Provolone for a creamier texture. You can also include French onion soup with bread for added heartiness.

French Onion Soup with Gruyère Cheese: A Comforting Classic - French Onion Soup with - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making cheesy chicken noodle soup for a comforting meal. If you’re interested in more variations, consider French onion chicken rice for a unique twist.

For more information on the health benefits of onions, you can visit Healthline.