How to Make the Best French Onion Soup Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a warm, comforting bowl of French Onion Soup that just feels like a big hug on a chilly day. And the best part? It’s not just for fancy French restaurants! Today, I’m sharing my secrets for making the most delicious, authentic French Onion Soup right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a soup lover, a fan of easy pasta recipes, or just looking for quick family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for those 30-minute meals or weeknight dinner ideas when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend cooking. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, flavorful broth packed with caramelized onions
• Crispy, cheesy croutons on top (because what’s French Onion Soup without that golden, bubbly cheese?)
• Easy to make ahead for busy days
• Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering French Onion Soup:

• 4 pounds yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced (about 5-6 large onions)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 6 cups of beef stock (or veggie stock for a vegetarian option)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste
• Baguette
• Grated or sliced cheese (such as Gruyère, Asiago, Swiss, Gouda, or Mozzarella)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious French Onion Soup:

Caramelizing the Onions

In a large heavy-bottomed stockpot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onions and sauté for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deeply caramelized (but not burnt). This step is crucial for developing that rich, sweet flavor. Near the end of caramelization, stir more frequently to prevent burning. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.

Building the Soup

Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Next, add the stock, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 10 minutes. Discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving.

Preparing the Croutons

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes until golden and toasted. Set aside.

Assembling and Broiling

Switch the oven to broil. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls placed on a baking sheet. Top each bowl with a toasted baguette slice and your desired amount of cheese. Broil for 2-4 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Take your time caramelizing the onions – it’s the heart of the soup’s flavor.
• Use high-quality stock for the best results.
• Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce – it adds depth.
• For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of Apple Gouda cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
• If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought beef stock, but homemade is always better!

How to Serve

French Onion Soup is best served hot, with the cheese bubbly and the croutons crispy. Pair it with a side salad or a crusty loaf of bread for a complete meal. It’s also a great option for weeknight dinner ideas or as a starter for a special occasion. If you’re looking for more easy pasta recipes or quick family dinners, check out my How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe or my Best Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe for more inspiration.

Make Ahead and Storage

The soup base can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before adding the croutons and cheese. For a family-style French Onion Soup, simply multiply the ingredients and serve in a large, oven-safe dish topped with plenty of cheese and croutons.

Enjoy your delicious homemade French Onion Soup – it’s sure to become a family favorite!