Go Back
+ servings
Easy French Onion Soup Recipe

Simple Easy French Onion Soup Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

This Easy French Onion Soup Recipe is a comforting classic that blends sweet caramelized onions with rich broth and melted cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: French
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Works alongside butter to help caramelize the onions perfectly.
  • 3 pounds Onions Yellow or sweet Vidalia, sliced thin to enhance sweetness and depth.
  • ¾ teaspoon Kosher or Sea Salt Elevates the flavor of the onions as they cook.
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper Provides a subtle warmth and counterbalances the sweetness.
  • ¾ cup Dry White Wine Boosts acidity and depth in the broth; substitute with more broth for a no-wine option.
  • 1 tablespoon Dry Sherry Adds complexity; replace with cider vinegar for those avoiding alcohol.
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Aids in thickening the broth; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 8 cups Beef Broth or Beef Stock The foundation of the soup; homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
  • 1 Bay Leaf Infuses aroma and flavor while simmering; remove before serving.
  • 2 sprigs Thyme Fresh or ½ teaspoon dried; can be omitted if you prefer.
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce Enhances umami flavor; adjust to fit personal taste.
For Serving
  • 1 small Baguette Sliced ½-inch thick and toasted to perfection for holding the cheese.
  • 6 ounces Gruyère Cheese Grated; melts beautifully for a decadent finish; try Fontina or Mozzarella as alternatives.

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy French Onion Soup Recipe
  1. Sauté the Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once melted, add the sliced onions, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook uncovered for 45–55 minutes, stirring every few minutes until caramelized.
  2. Deglaze the Pot: After the onions are caramelized, pour in the dry white wine and sherry. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Cook for 5–6 minutes, scraping the browned bits from the bottom.
  3. Incorporate the Broth: Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir for about 1 minute. Gradually add 1 cup of beef broth, stirring constantly, then add the remaining broth, bay leaf, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until well integrated.
  4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.
  5. Prepare the Baguette: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange sliced baguette on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until crispy and golden.
  6. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Portion the soup into ovenproof bowls, add baguette slices, and sprinkle with grated cheese.
  7. Broil to Perfection: Set your oven to broil and place the bowls under the broiler. Broil for 2–5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze before adding baguette and cheese for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!