Classic French Onion Soup With Cheesy Croutons

What kind of recipe is it?

Classic French Onion Soup is a timeless dish that beautifully showcases the rich, sweet flavors of caramelized onions simmered in a savory broth, usually made from beef or vegetable stock.

Topped with a generous layer of melted cheese and crusty bread, this comforting soup warms the soul and delights the palate. Perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs, it’s an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or special occasion, inviting everyone to experience the heartwarming traditions of French cuisine.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Yellow onions	4 large (about 2 pounds)
Unsalted butter	4 tablespoons
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Sugar	1 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Beef stock	6 cups
Dry white wine or sherry	1 cup
Fresh thyme (or dried)	2-3 sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried)
Bay leaves	1-2
Baguette or crusty bread	1 loaf
Gruyère cheese	1½ cups, grated
Parmesan cheese	½ cup, grated (optional)
Fresh parsley	For garnish (optional)

This ingredient list will guarantee you have everything needed to create a delicious and authentic Classic French Onion Soup.

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 190 °C (375 °F) for the bread to be toasted later. Position the oven rack in the middle.
Slice the 4 large yellow onions into thin half-moons, ensuring even thickness for uniform cooking.
Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot (such as a Dutch oven) over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir until the butter melts and begins to foam.
Add the sliced onions to the pot, along with 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to coat the onions in the fat.
Cook the onions for 30–40 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes. Adjust the heat to medium-low if they begin to brown too quickly. The onions should become deep golden brown, caramelized, and fragrant.
Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, stirring until the garlic is aromatic but not browned.
Pour in 6 cups of beef stock and 1 cup of dry white wine or sherry, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any caramelized bits. Add 2–3 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried) and 1–2 bay leaves.
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
While the soup simmers, prepare the bread. Slice the baguette into 1.5 cm (½ inch) thick slices, and place on a baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until light golden brown, flipping halfway through.
After the soup has simmered, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves.
Divide the hot soup between oven-safe bowls, leaving room for the toppings. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, then sprinkle with 1½ cups of grated Gruyère cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven, allowing the bowls to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm, enjoying the aroma of the melted cheese and caramelized onions, and savor the rich flavors of this classic French dish.

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Variations

Mushroom French Onion Soup: Replace half of the onions with 500g (1 lb) of sliced mushrooms for an earthy twist; sauté them with onions for extra depth.
Vegan French Onion Soup: Use vegetable broth instead of beef stock; replace butter with 4 tablespoons (60 ml) of olive oil and top with vegan cheese.
French Onion Soup with Chicken: Add 400g (14 oz) of shredded cooked chicken to the soup after it simmers for added protein and richness.
Spicy French Onion Soup: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions for a kick of heat; serve with pepper jack cheese on top.

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Tips on plating and presentation

Although the taste is paramount, I believe the presentation of French onion soup can elevate your dining experience to new heights.

To plate, I ladle the soup into sturdy bowls, ensuring a generous amount of melted cheese on top.

For a pop of color, I sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

Finally, I serve with crusty bread on the side for a rustic touch.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

The cozy feel of classic French onion soup invites a variety of delightful pairings that can enhance the meal.

I love serving it with a fresh, crunchy salad drizzled in a tangy vinaigrette or a hearty quiche loaded with vegetables.

For a more substantial option, a savory croissant sandwich stuffed with ham and cheese complements the soup beautifully, creating a comforting dining experience.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

When it comes to choosing drinks to pair with classic French onion soup, I love opting for something that complements its rich flavors.

A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the sweetness of the onions. Alternatively, a light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, works beautifully.

For non-alcoholic options, I recommend sparkling water with a twist of lemon to keep things invigorating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Store Leftover French Onion Soup?

I store leftover soup in an airtight container, letting it cool first. Then, I refrigerate it for up to three days. I reheat it on the stove, stirring occasionally for even warmth. Enjoy!

Can I Freeze French Onion Soup?

Yes, I can freeze French onion soup! I pour it into airtight containers, leaving space for expansion. After that, I label them with dates and pop them in the freezer for up to three months.

What Type of Onions Work Best for This Soup?

I find that yellow onions are the best choice for this soup, as their natural sweetness enhances the flavor. I’ve also used Vidalia onions for a different twist, which I really enjoyed. You should try it!

Is There a Vegetarian Version of French Onion Soup?

Yes, there’s definitely a vegetarian version of French onion soup! I usually substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and guarantee the cheese I use is vegetarian-friendly. It’s just as delicious and satisfying!

How Can I Make the Soup Gluten-Free?

I use gluten-free bread for croutons and guarantee the broth’s free from gluten ingredients. I also check labels on any seasoning or add-ins, so I’m confident my soup is safe and delicious.