French Onion White Beans

Name: French Onion White Beans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups canned white beans (drained and rinsed); 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese (shredded); 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme); 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt to taste

Published: August 9, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The simplicity of this French Onion White Beans recipe means anyone can whip it up in no time
The rich onion flavor combined with creamy beans creates a delightful combination
Its golden, cheesy topping adds visual appeal and irresistible charm
Versatile enough to be served as a main or side dish, it works for any meal

Nothing brings people together quite like good food. I once made this for a dinner party, and my friends devoured every last spoonful—one even went back for seconds, claiming it was “divine.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

White Beans: Canned or dried white beans work well; just be sure to soak dried beans overnight for optimal texture.
Onions: Use yellow or sweet onions for their natural sweetness when caramelized. For more inspiration, check out this marinated cucumbers and onions recipe.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will enhance the depth of flavor; don’t skimp on this ingredient.
Vegetable Broth: A good-quality broth adds richness; low-sodium options allow you to control the saltiness better. delicious roasted vegetable orzo.
Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss cheese melts beautifully and gives that classic French onion flavor profile.
Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves will bring an aromatic touch; dried thyme can work in a pinch.
Balsamic Vinegar: Just a splash adds complexity to the caramelized onions without overpowering the dish.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the onions; it enhances the overall flavor.

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

Let’s Make it together

Caramelize Those Onions: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and fragrant—about 20 minutes should do the trick.

Add Garlic and Thyme: Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, toss in minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant—this step intensifies those cozy aromas!

Add the Beans and Broth: Stir in your white beans along with vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while mixing well so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Melt the Cheese: Transfer your mixture into an oven-safe dish and sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top. Broil under high heat until bubbly and golden—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Serve with Love: Let it cool slightly before digging in—the last thing you want is to burn your tongue! Serve warm with crusty bread or over rice for an extra hearty meal.

Enjoying this French Onion White Beans dish is like savoring nostalgia wrapped in layers of flavor. flavorful Thai chicken soup Every bite tells a story, transporting you back to cozy kitchens filled with laughter and love.

You Must Know

French Onion White Beans offer a delightful twist on classic flavors
The creamy texture and savory aroma will transform your meal into something unforgettable
Plus, this dish is plant-based and perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by caramelizing onions slowly for at least 30 minutes to achieve that rich, deep flavor. Cook the white beans until tender, then mix everything together for harmony in taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap white beans for chickpeas or add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme for added freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover French Onion White Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To avoid burnt onions, stir frequently and keep the heat low during caramelization
Use high-quality vegetable broth for a richer flavor
Experiment with cheese alternatives if you want to keep it vegan-friendly, enhancing creaminess without dairy

Creating this dish reminds me of a rainy evening spent with friends; everyone raved about how comforting the flavors were, making it an instant favorite in my recipe collection.

FAQ

What type of beans work best for French Onion White Beans?

Any white beans like cannellini or navy beans are perfect choices for this recipe.

Can I make French Onion White Beans ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after resting overnight as flavors meld beautifully.

Is it possible to freeze French Onion White Beans?

Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months without losing quality.

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