Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of France with our collection of 18 creamy French onion soup recipes. This classic soup has been a staple of French cuisine for centuries, and we’re excited to share our favorite variations with you. From the traditional Gruyère-topped croutons to innovative twists like vegan cashew cream or gluten-free cheesy toasts, there’s something for everyone in this roundup.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant addition to your next dinner party, these creamy French onion soup recipes are sure to impress. So grab a crusty loaf of bread and get ready to swoon over the depths of flavor that await…
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
A rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this classic French onion soup is elevated by the addition of crispy Gruyère croutons. Savor every bite!
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 4 slices of baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil, sugar, and onions; cook until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
2. Add wine (if using) and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, preheat broiler. Toss baguette cubes with Gruyère cheese and place on a baking sheet.
4. Broil croutons until golden brown.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls; top each bowl with a Gruyère crouton. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Thyme
This rich and flavorful soup is a perfect comfort food option for a chilly evening. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
2. Transfer the onions to the slow cooker with thyme, wine (if using), beef broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 1/4 cup of Gruyère cheese until melted.
5. Serve hot, topped with remaining Gruyère cheese and fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegan French Onion Soup with Cashew Cream
Vegan French Onion Soup with Cashew Cream: A rich and flavorful twist on the classic soup, this recipe replaces traditional beef broth with a savory vegetable base and adds a creamy cashew topping for an added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cups vegan bread, cubed (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and olive oil over medium heat until caramelized.
2. Add salt, vegetable broth, water, garlic, and tomato paste; bring to boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Blend soup with an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
4. Make cashew cream by blending 1/4 cup cashews with 1/2 cup water until creamy.
5. Ladle soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of cashew cream and cubed bread (if using).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Red Wine and Rosemary
Rich, caramelized onions, infused with the bold flavors of red wine and fragrant rosemary, make this French Onion Soup a game-changer. This classic recipe gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of red wine and fresh rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 6 slices of baguette, toasted
– Gruyère cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
2. Add red wine, beef broth, thyme, and rosemary to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette and grated Gruyère (if using).
4. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caramelized French Onion Soup with Baguette Slices
Experience the rich flavors of France with this classic soup recipe. Caramelized onions, melted cheese, and crispy baguette slices come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 4-6 baguette slices, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add salt, white wine (if using), and beef broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a toasted baguette slice and sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-12 minutes. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
French Onion Soup with Beef Broth and Sherry
A classic French onion soup recipe gets a rich twist by substituting beef broth for the traditional chicken or vegetable stock, and adding a splash of sherry for added depth. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)
– 1/4 cup sherry
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Gruyère cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add beef broth, wine, and sherry to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Place toasted baguette slices on top of the soup in oven-proof bowls. Sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese (if using).
5. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gluten-Free French Onion Soup with Cheesy Toasts
This classic soup gets a gluten-free makeover with caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and topped with melted cheese on toasted bread. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 2 slices of gluten-free bread
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, caramelize the onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes.
2. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
5. Top each slice with grated cheese and place under the broiler until melted.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with toasted cheesy bread.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Caramelized Shallots
Elevate this classic French onion soup recipe by swapping out traditional onions for sweet and savory caramelized shallots. This rich and flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large shallots, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook shallots in butter and olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Meanwhile, heat beef broth in a separate pot and bring to a simmer.
4. Assemble soup by placing toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet, topping with caramelized shallots, and ladling warm broth over the top.
5. Sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the soup and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Mushroom Broth
French Onion Soup with Mushroom Broth Recipe
Rich and savory, this French Onion Soup takes a creative turn by using mushroom broth instead of traditional beef or chicken stock. The result is a flavorful and aromatic soup that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 6 cups mushroom broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Pour in mushroom broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes
French Onion Soup with White Wine and Herbs
A rich and flavorful French onion soup recipe that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions, the depth of white wine, and the freshness of herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Gruyère cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
2. Add white wine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes or until slightly reduced.
4. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère (if using).
5. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Bacon and Chives
This recipe adds a smoky twist to the classic French onion soup by incorporating crispy bacon and fresh chives. The result is a rich, savory, and utterly satisfying soup perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium clove garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Fresh chives, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon.
2. Add butter to the same pan, then sauté onions and garlic until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
3. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each with toasted bread, grated Gruyère cheese, and a sprinkle of crispy bacon.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Garlic Butter Croutons
This classic French recipe combines caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and toasted croutons infused with garlic butter for a satisfying and flavorful soup experience.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, cook the onions in butter and olive oil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
2. Add beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss baguette cubes with garlic butter (melted butter mixed with minced garlic) and season with salt. Spread on a baking sheet and toast for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each bowl with toasted croutons and grated Gruyère cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion Soup with Swiss Cheese Melt
Classic French onion soup gets a creamy twist with a melted Swiss cheese topping. This comforting bowl of goodness is perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 slices Swiss cheese, torn into small pieces
– 4 crusty baguette slices, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Place toasted baguette slices on individual serving bowls.
6. Ladle hot soup over bread, then top each bowl with Swiss cheese pieces.
7. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Onion Soup with Caramelized Leeks
Elevate the classic French Onion Soup with the subtle sweetness of caramelized leeks. This recipe combines the rich flavors of onions and beef broth with the mellow taste of leeks, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large leeks, cleaned and sliced into thin rings
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onions are translucent.
4. Pour in beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer while preparing croutons.
6. Preheat broiler. Place toasted baguette slices under broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Ladle hot soup into oven-proof bowls, topping each with a toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese (if using). Broil for an additional 30 seconds to melt cheese.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Balsamic Glaze
This classic soup gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and croutons come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add sugar, wine, and beef broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a toasted baguette slice and a sprinkle of Gruyère cheese.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of each serving.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Sourdough Bread Topping
French Onion Soup with Sourdough Bread Topping Recipe Summary:
Experience the rich flavors of French onion soup elevated by a crispy sourdough bread topping, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 4 slices of sourdough bread
– Gruyère cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add salt, wine (if using), and beef broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until soup is rich and flavorful.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Slice sourdough bread into 1-inch thick rounds.
5. Ladle hot soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of bread.
6. Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese on top (if using).
7. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your soup game with this rich and flavorful French Onion Soup, topped with crispy Parmesan crisps. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (20-25 minutes).
2. If using wine, add it to the saucepan and cook until reduced by half.
3. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let cool slightly.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Toast baguette slices and top each with a spoonful of soup and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Place under broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
French Onion Soup with Caramelized Fennel
Elevate the classic French Onion Soup with the sweet and anise-like flavor of caramelized fennel. This recipe combines the richness of melted cheese and croutons with the subtle crunch of fresh fennel.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 6 slices baguette, toasted
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add fennel and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, sauté onions in olive oil until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Add beef broth to the onion mixture and bring to a simmer.
5. Assemble soup by placing toasted baguette slices on top of soup, followed by grated Gruyère cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of France with these 18 creamy French onion soup recipes! From classic combinations to innovative twists, each recipe offers a unique take on this beloved dish. Try adding gruyère croutons for added crunch or opt for a slow-cooked version infused with thyme. For a vegan option, use cashew cream instead of traditional butter and cheese. Whether you prefer red wine and rosemary or mushroom broth, there’s a French onion soup recipe to suit every taste. Treat yourself to a culinary journey with these mouthwatering soups!
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