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French Onion Soup Recipe

Classic French Onion Soup (Rich & Cheesy)

This French Onion Soup recipe is a timeless comfort food. Made with slow-caramelized onions, a savory broth, and topped with golden, bubbling cheese, it’s the perfect dish for cozy dinners or special gatherings. Whether you keep it traditional, add beef for extra heartiness, or make a lighter chicken version, this recipe will warm you from the inside out.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp sugar helps onions caramelize
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine optional
  • 6 cups beef broth or chicken broth for lighter version
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 baguette sliced
  • 2 cups Gruyère or Swiss cheese shredded
  • Optional: 1/2 cup heavy cream for a creamy variation

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add onions, garlic, and sugar. Cook slowly, stirring often, until onions are deeply caramelized. [Timer: 25–30 minutes]
  3. Deglaze with wine (if using), scraping up browned bits. [Timer: 2 minutes]
  4. Add beef broth (or chicken broth), thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer gently. [Timer: 30 minutes]
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Remove thyme and bay leaf.
  6. Toast baguette slices until crisp. [Timer: 5 minutes]
  7. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted bread, and cover with cheese. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly. [Timer: 2–3 minutes]

Notes

    • Onions: Use sweet yellow onions for deep flavor.
    • Broth: Beef = richer flavor; chicken = lighter.
    • Creamy Option: Stir in heavy cream before serving for a silky twist.
    • Cheese: Gruyère is classic, but Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone work well.
    • Always use oven-safe bowls when broiling!