Homemade French Onion Soup is a classic and comforting dish featuring caramelized onions in a rich, savory broth, topped with crusty bread and gooey melted cheese. This timeless French recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or as an elegant starter for dinner parties. Packed with deep flavors and a heartwarming aroma, this soup is a show-stopper that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar (to enhance caramelization)
• 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth (or a mix of beef and chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 4-6 slices of crusty baguette or French bread
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese as a substitute)

Directions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle the onions with sugar and a pinch of salt, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized.

Step 2: Build the Broth

4. Stir in the white wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add the beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

6. While the soup simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil

7. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous handful of shredded Gruyère cheese.
8. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 5: Serve

9. Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.

Notes

• Make-ahead option: Caramelize the onions and prepare the broth a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
• Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a plant-based alternative.
• Storage: Store leftover soup (without the bread and cheese) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Why This Recipe Works

Caramelizing the onions slowly develops their natural sweetness and deep, rich flavor. Combined with a robust broth and melted cheese, this soup is the perfect balance of savory and satisfying. The toasted bread and bubbling cheese topping add a luxurious texture to this already irresistible dish.

Conclusion

Homemade French Onion Soup is a delicious way to elevate a simple meal into something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests, this classic recipe will never disappoint. Try it today and savor the comforting flavors of this French favorite!