French Onion Soup is a comforting classic from France that builds its bold, savory flavor from slow-cooked onions and a good broth. The dish is finished with a slice of crusty bread and a generous layer of melted Gruyère cheese that bubbles and browns under the broiler. It’s rich, deeply satisfying, and best served straight from the oven while the cheese is still gooey and golden. This recipe makes enough for 4 bowls.
Ingredients
-
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon sugar
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon flour
-
125 ml (½ cup) dry white wine
-
1 litre (4 cups) beef stock (use good quality or homemade)
-
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
-
Black pepper, to taste
-
4 thick slices of baguette or rustic bread, toasted
-
1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
Caramelizing the Onions
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring regularly, until the onions turn deep golden brown—this will take about 35–45 minutes. Don’t rush it; the color gives the soup its flavor.
Add the garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to thicken slightly.
Building the Soup
Pour in the wine and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer until the wine is mostly reduced.
Add the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce if using. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. Taste and season with black pepper and more salt if needed.
Preparing the Topping
Preheat your broiler. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted slice of bread on top of each bowl and pile on the Gruyère cheese.
Place the bowls on a baking tray and broil until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown—about 3–5 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Serving
Let the soup cool for a minute or two (the bowls will be very hot), then serve immediately.
French Onion Soup with Gruyère is all about contrast—sweet caramelized onions, deep broth, crispy bread, and melted cheese. It’s both rustic and indulgent, perfect for chilly days or as a cozy starter to a bigger meal.
