Cozy, rich, and cheesy! Learn how to make authentic French Onion Soup with caramelized onions and a cheesy baguette topping.
Steps to make French onion soup:
Step 1: Gather Ingredients for the Soup– 5 tbsp unsalted butter– 3 lbs yellow onions (thinly sliced)– ¼ tsp salt (plus more to taste)– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour– ¾ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc works well)– 4 cups beef stock– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth– 1 large thyme sprig– 2 bay leaves
Step 2: Ingredients for Cheese Toast– 12 baguette slices (¾-inch thick)– 1 garlic clove (halved)– 1½ cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese– ½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese– 1 tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional)
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions1.Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.2.Add onions and ¼ tsp salt. Sauté for 45–50 minutes, stirring frequently.3.Reduce heat if onions brown too quickly.4.Use a splash of water to scrape up browned bits from the pot’s bottom to avoid burning.
Step 4: Build the Soup Base– Sprinkle 2 tbsp of flour over the caramelized onions and sauté for 1 minute.– Pour in ¾ cup white wine, scraping up the golden bits from the pot’s bottom.– Add beef stock, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.– Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Step 5:Prepare the Cheese Toast1.Preheat oven to 450°F.2.Rub halved garlic on one side of each baguette slice.3.Place slices on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown, about 5–8 minutes.
Step 6: Assemble and Broil1.Ladle soup into broiler-proof bowls.2.Top with 2 baguette slices and sprinkle with cheese.3.Broil until the cheese melts.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve1.Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.2.Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of French Onion Soup!