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Simple French Onion Soup Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

This Simple French Onion Soup recipe offers a rich, comforting bowl of slow-cooked caramelized onions simmered in a flavorful beef broth, topped with crusty French bread and melted Gruyere cheese. Perfect for a cozy meal, this classic French dish balances deep, sweet onion flavors with savory broth and gooey cheese gratin using a broiling finish.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 large onions, sliced thin
  • 1 tablespoon dry sherry
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup French bread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (from 2 slices)

Topping Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
  • 4 slices French bread, 1/2-inch thick
  • 4 slices Gruyere cheese

Instructions

  1. Melt Butter and Oil: In a large stock pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat to create the base for caramelizing the onions.
  2. Caramelize Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the pot and stir well to coat them evenly in the butter and oil. Cook over medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions begin browning. Continue cooking on medium to medium-low for an additional hour, stirring occasionally, until the onions are very soft, tender, and have a deep rich brown color without burning.
  3. Add Sherry: Stir in the dry sherry and cook for 1-2 minutes to evaporate some of the alcohol and deepen the flavor.
  4. Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the beef broth, add the chopped thyme, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors. Then add the cubed French bread and mix it into the soup.
  5. Simmer Soup: Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes to meld flavors and soften the bread pieces.
  6. Prepare Bowls and Toppings: Carefully ladle the hot soup into individual oven-safe ramekins or bowls. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of shredded Swiss cheese over each portion. Place a slice of French bread on top of the cheese, then cover the bread with a slice of Gruyere cheese.
  7. Broil for Cheese Melt: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil on high heat positioned 3-4 inches from the broiler for 3-4 minutes, watching carefully, until the Gruyere cheese is melted and bubbly without burning. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
  8. Alternative Broiling Method: Alternatively, place the French bread slices on a foil-lined baking sheet, top each with Gruyere cheese, and broil 2-3 minutes until melted. Sprinkle Swiss cheese into the soup bowls separately and serve with the broiled bread on top.

Notes

  • Slow caramelization of onions is key for deep flavor—do not rush this step or increase heat to avoid burning.
  • If you don’t have dry sherry, a splash of white wine or additional broth can be substituted.
  • Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness, especially with the addition of Worcestershire and cheeses.
  • Gruyere cheese melts well and adds a nutty flavor characteristic of traditional French onion soup.
  • Bread can be toasted beforehand for extra crunch or baked as described for a classic gratin topping.
  • Adjust seasoning after simmering to taste.
  • Serve immediately after broiling for best texture and flavor.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/simple-french-onion-soup-recipe/