Description
This Easy French Onion Soup recipe features caramelized onions simmered in a rich beef broth with thyme, topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese. It’s a classic, comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal and can be prepared in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping Ingredients
- 4 slices baguette
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become golden brown and caramelized, about 25 minutes. This slow cooking process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to develop a slight roux, which will help thicken the soup slightly.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and add the thyme. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Season: Taste and season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Toast the Baguette: While the soup simmers, place the baguette slices in the oven and toast until they are golden and crispy. Remove and top each slice with shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and float a slice of the cheese-covered baguette on top of each serving. The warm cheese will melt slightly, creating a delicious finish.
Notes
- Use beef broth for authentic flavor, but vegetable broth can substitute for a lighter, vegetarian option.
- Caramelizing onions is the key step for depth of flavor; do not rush this process.
- Baguette slices can be toasted under a broiler if you’re short on time, watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Gruyère cheese melts well, providing a classic French onion soup taste; substitute with Swiss cheese if unavailable.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a glass of dry white wine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
