Caramelized Onion French Soup

Name: Caramelized Onion French Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large sweet onions (such as Vidalia), thinly sliced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 cups beef broth (preferably homemade); 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 baguette, sliced into thick pieces; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: August 27, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Caramelized Onion French Soup offers a simple yet elegant dish that impresses without stress
The deep caramelized flavor creates a rich, satisfying experience for your taste buds
With its inviting golden hue and cheesy topping, it’s visually stunning and perfect for any dinner table
Ideal for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends, making it versatile for any occasion

I still remember the first time I made Caramelized Onion French Soup for my family; their reactions were priceless—especially when they discovered it was just onions doing all the heavy lifting! crispy air fryer falafel.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious pumpkin sustainable pizza.

Sweet Onions: Use Vidalia or Walla Walla onions for their natural sweetness; they caramelize beautifully.
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness and enhance the rich flavor.
Beef Broth: A quality beef broth adds depth; homemade is best if you have it on hand!
Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves are ideal; they add an aromatic touch that elevates the soup.
Baguette: Use a fresh baguette to create the perfect crunchy topping; it’s essential for that classic French experience.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese melts wonderfully and gives a nutty flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to bring out all the flavors; adjust according to your taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

To embark on this flavorful journey of making Caramelized Onion French Soup, follow these step-by-step instructions with love and laughter. For more inspiration, check out this creamy udon noodles recipe.

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. Chop your onions thinly, measure out your broth, and have your cheese ready for melting.

Carmelize the Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add sliced onions and stir until they turn golden brown and smell heavenly—about 25-30 minutes.

Add Broth and Seasonings: Once onions are caramelized to perfection, pour in about 6 cups of beef broth. Toss in thyme leaves along with salt and pepper to taste; let simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.

Prepare Baguette Topping: While the soup simmers, slice your baguette into thick pieces. savory avocado toast bites Toast them under a broiler until golden brown—keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

Melt the Gruyère Cheese: Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, place toasted baguette slices on top, then generously sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Place under the broiler until bubbly and golden—about 3-5 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy! : Carefully remove from oven (they will be hot!), allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your bowl of Caramelized Onion French Soup while basking in compliments from friends and family!

You Must Know

Caramelized onion French soup is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting warmth
The sweet, savory aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table
It’s perfect for chilly evenings, bringing a taste of France right to your home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by slowly caramelizing onions over low heat to develop deep flavors, then deglaze with broth for richness. For more inspiration, check out this marinated cucumbers and onions recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with toppings like Gruyère cheese or fresh herbs to elevate your soup’s flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on low to preserve flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For optimal flavor, use high-quality beef or vegetable broth for your soup base
Remember to stir occasionally while caramelizing onions to prevent burning
Don’t rush the process; patience pays off in flavor development

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a cozy winter evening spent with friends. We gathered around the table, savoring every spoonful and laughing about our culinary mishaps.

FAQ

What kind of onions should I use for caramelized onion French soup?

Yellow or sweet onions work best for achieving that rich sweetness in your soup.

Can I make caramelized onion French soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I add more depth of flavor?

Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine during cooking for extra complexity.

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📖 Recipe Card