Description
This classic Homemade French Onion Soup recipe features caramelized onions simmered in savory beef broth, topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyere cheese. Rich, comforting, and perfect for a cozy meal, this soup combines deep flavors with a delightful cheesy crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauté Base
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soup
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 8 slices baguette, toasted
- 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Melt the butter and olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh thyme leaves and bay leaf to infuse the soup with aromatic herbal notes.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in the beef broth, then season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Prepare for Broiling: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Ladle the hot soup evenly into 4 oven-safe bowls, ensuring each bowl is filled sufficiently.
- Add Bread and Cheese: Place 2 toasted baguette slices on top of each soup bowl. Evenly divide the grated Gruyere cheese over the bread slices, covering them thoroughly.
- Broil and Serve: Broil the bowls for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Serve the soup immediately while hot and enjoy the classic, cheesy French onion soup experience.
Notes
- For best results, use beef broth with rich flavor or homemade broth.
- Stir onions frequently during caramelization to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss or Emmental if needed.
- Use oven-safe bowls that can withstand broiler heat safely.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
