Easy French Onion Soup with Melty Cheese

Name: Easy French Onion Soup with Melty Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 teaspoons thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 French baguette, sliced; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting warmth of this Easy French Onion Soup, topped with melty, gooey cheese that creates a delightful crust over the rich, caramelized onion broth. Perfectly balanced with savory flavors and aromatic herbs, this dish is a classic favorite that will warm your heart and soul. Ideal for cozy nights in or as an elegant appetizer for gatherings, this soup is a must-try for all cheese lovers.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T07:03:07.815Z

This Easy French Onion Soup is all about comfort food. The rich flavors of caramelized onions combined with the cheesy topping create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

The Joy of Homemade Soup

There's something deeply satisfying about making soup from scratch, especially when it’s a recipe as timeless and comforting as French Onion Soup. The process of slowly caramelizing the onions releases their natural sweetness, which creates a luscious base for your soup. Each step in this recipe is integral to developing the rich, umami flavors that will have your guests asking for seconds.

Making your own soup not only allows you to control the ingredients but also ensures that you can tailor the flavors to your liking. Whether you prefer a heartier broth or a sprinkle of more herbs, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate any palate. Homemade soup is also a great way to showcase your culinary skills, impressing friends and family with your dedication to quality ingredients and flavors.

Tips for Perfecting Your French Onion Soup

To achieve the best flavor in your French Onion Soup, choosing the right type of onion is crucial. While yellow onions are the classic choice, you can also experiment with sweet onions like Vidalia or red onions to add a unique twist. Each variety imparts its distinct flavor profile, contributing to the soup's overall depth.

Another essential tip is to allow your onions ample time to caramelize. Rushed caramelization can lead to a burnt taste rather than the sweet, rich flavor we want in our soup. Stick to a medium-low heat and stir your onions frequently. The patience required in this step will be rewarded with beautifully caramelized onions that serve as the heart of the dish.

Elevating Your Serving Experience

Serving your Easy French Onion Soup in the right way can enhance the dining experience significantly. Consider using oven-safe bowls or crocks for individual servings, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble beautifully atop each portion. This method not only makes for an impressive presentation but also keeps the soup hot for longer, ensuring that every bite is a delight.

Pair your soup with a fresh green salad or a light, crusty baguette on the side for a complete meal. The combination of the warm, cheesy soup with the crunch of fresh vegetables or bread creates a delightful contrast that enhances the pleasure of dining. Remember, the key to a memorable meal lies in both the flavors and the presentation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful soup:

Ingredients

4 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup white wine
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 French baguette, sliced
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to achieve the best results:

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar, and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized (about 30 minutes).

Add Liquids

Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the white wine and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then add the beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 15 minutes.

Prepare the Bread and Cheese

While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to broil. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the cheesy bread, and enjoy your delicious Easy French Onion Soup!

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cheese can I use for this recipe? While Gruyère cheese is the traditional choice, you can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar. Just be mindful that the chosen cheese should melt well and complement the flavors of your soup.

Can I make French Onion Soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup and top it with cheese-covered bread before broiling it for a delightful finish.

Storage and Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the soup and cheesy bread separately to maintain their textures. Refrigerate the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking the onions and broth, ensuring they retain their flavor.

For the bread topped with cheese, it's best to broil it fresh when you're ready to serve. However, you can still store the bread in an airtight container for a couple of days. Just be sure to heat it in the oven or toaster to rejuvenate its crispy texture before enjoying it again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add the cheese-topped bread just before broiling.

→ What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese?

You can substitute Gruyère with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a similar melting quality.