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Cozy Authentic French Onion Soup Recipe

authentic french onion soup recipe - featured image

A warm, comforting French onion soup featuring slow-caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and a golden melted Gruyère cheese crust. Perfect for cozy nights and easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 large bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds and toasted
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Instructions

  1. Peel and thinly slice 6 large yellow onions about 1/8-inch thick (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat (2-3 minutes).
  3. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for about 40 minutes until onions are golden brown, soft, and sweet. Add a splash of water or reduce heat if onions start sticking.
  4. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine to deglaze the pot. Let simmer and reduce for 3-4 minutes until mostly evaporated.
  6. Add 6 cups low-sodium beef broth, 3 sprigs fresh thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. While soup simmers, slice 1 French baguette into 1/2-inch rounds and toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until golden and crisp.
  8. Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf from soup. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls or a baking dish. Place toasted baguette slices on top, then cover generously with 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese.
  9. Broil on high for 3-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  10. Serve immediately, enjoying the gooey cheesy crust with the rich broth beneath.

Notes

Slow caramelization of onions is key for deep flavor; do not rush by increasing heat. Toast bread before adding cheese to prevent sogginess. Freshly shredded Gruyère melts better than pre-shredded. For vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit wine if preferred. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or omit bread topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cozy soup, homemade soup