French onion soup is one of those dishes that brings comfort to the soul, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. Immaculately rich in flavor and topped with gooey melted cheese over crispy baguettes, it transforms humble onions into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers a warm embrace in a bowl that’ll make you feel right at home.
Why you’ll love this dish
There’s something undeniably enchanting about French onion soup. It’s not just a hearty meal; it’s an experience. The slow-cooking process caramelizes the onions, enhancing their natural sweetness and creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. This dish is both budget-friendly and simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option or a crowd-pleaser for special occasions. And let’s not forget the satisfying crunch of cheesy baguettes that perfectly complement the silky soup!
"This French onion soup was a hit! The caramelized onions were just to die for, and the cheesy baguettes took it over the top!" – A delighted home cook
The cooking process explained
Making French onion soup with cheesy baguettes is a straightforward yet rewarding endeavor. First, you’ll spend a bit of time caramelizing the onions to bring out their rich flavors. While they simmer away, you’ll prepare the broth and seasonings to enhance this classic dish. Finally, the cheesy baguettes are both a delicious garnish and a delightful way to enjoy every last drop of soup.
What you’ll need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward making this savory soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (or beef broth) for deglazing the pan
- 7-8 cups beef broth (bone broth is also a great option)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 demi French baguette, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Garlic powder, for sprinkling
- 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, thickly shredded
These ingredients not only create a soulful dish but also allow for flexibility in terms of substituting beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version!
