French onion soup is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Originating from France, this savory soup is made with caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and a touch of wine, all topped with a slice of crusty bread and melted cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a starter for a special dinner, French onion soup offers a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and sophisticated. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create an authentic French onion soup that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Classic French Onion Soup with Cheese
To make this delicious French onion soup, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 8 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
- 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Classic French Onion Soup with Cheese
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the onions in the butter and oil mixture. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Be patient during this step, as the slow caramelization is key to developing the rich flavor of the soup.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
Once the onions are caramelized, add the dry white wine to the pot. Stir to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it has reduced by half.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Herbs
Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and fresh thyme to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. If using, add the Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil
Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, filling each about three-quarters full. Place one or two toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl of soup. Sprinkle the grated Gruyere and Parmesan cheese generously over the bread. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and transfer them to the broiler. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired. Serve the French onion soup hot, with a side of extra toasted baguette slices if you like.
About the Main Ingredients
Onions
Onions are the star of French onion soup. Yellow onions are typically used for their balance of sweetness and pungency. Caramelizing the onions slowly over low heat allows their natural sugars to develop, resulting in a rich, sweet flavor that forms the base of the soup.
Beef Broth
Beef broth provides a deep, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions. For the best results, use a high-quality beef broth or stock. Homemade beef broth, if available, will give the soup an even richer flavor.
Gruyere Cheese
Gruyere cheese is a key component of the classic French onion soup topping. It melts beautifully and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory soup. Gruyere also forms a lovely golden-brown crust under the broiler.
Baguette
A good French baguette is essential for the topping. The bread should be toasted until crisp, which helps it hold up in the soup and provides a satisfying crunch. The combination of crusty bread, melted cheese, and rich soup is what makes French onion soup so delightful.
Dry White Wine
Dry white wine adds acidity and depth of flavor to the soup. It is used to deglaze the pot after caramelizing the onions, lifting the browned bits from the bottom and incorporating them into the soup. Choose a wine you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will be prominent in the final dish.
Fresh Thyme and Bay Leaves
Fresh thyme and bay leaves add herbal notes that enhance the overall flavor of the soup. Thyme has a subtle earthiness, while bay leaves contribute a slightly floral and peppery aroma. Together, they balance the sweetness of the onions and the richness of the broth.
Classic French onion soup is a dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a complex and deeply satisfying flavor. By taking the time to caramelize the onions properly and using high-quality ingredients, you can achieve a restaurant-worthy soup that is sure to impress. Whether you are making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy on a cozy evening at home, this French onion soup recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Serve it hot with a generous topping of melted cheese and crusty bread, and savor every delicious bite.
