Ingredients

For the Soup:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups sliced onions (about 3–4 medium onions)
• 5 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 4 slices French bread, toasted
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 2 slices Swiss cheese, diced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Servings: 4

Steps to Make Classic French Onion Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat them in the butter and oil.
3. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes or until they are golden brown and caramelized. Adjust the heat to low if they begin to brown too quickly.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

1. Sprinkle the caramelized onions with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Add the dry sherry, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and release the browned bits.
3. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cover the pot partially and let the soup simmer for 20–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Topping

1. While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the slices of French bread on a baking sheet and toast them until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Soup

1. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks.
2. Place a slice of toasted French bread on top of each bowl of soup.
3. Cover the bread with a slice of provolone cheese, a few pieces of diced Swiss cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Broil and Serve

1. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and transfer them to the oven under the broiler.
2. Broil for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
3. Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve immediately.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

French Onion Soup is a dish that stands the test of time, and for good reason:

1. Humble Ingredients, Luxurious Flavor: The transformation of onions into a deeply caramelized, savory base is nothing short of magical. Paired with rich beef broth and melted cheese, it’s a symphony of flavors.
2. Comfort Meets Elegance: While hearty and rustic, French Onion Soup also has a refined quality that makes it suitable for dinner parties or romantic dinners.
3. A Global Favorite: Though French in origin, this soup has become a beloved dish worldwide, gracing tables in homes and restaurants alike.
4. Perfect for All Seasons: Whether you’re cozying up by the fire in winter or enjoying a cool evening in spring, French Onion Soup is always appropriate.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 30g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone, Swiss, and Parmesan are traditional, you can substitute Gruyère, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a unique twist.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the beef broth for vegetable broth. To maintain richness, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce.

3. What if I don’t have dry sherry?
You can use white wine or apple cider vinegar as a substitute. These add a similar tangy depth to the soup.

4. Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
Yes, the soup base (without the bread and cheese) freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before adding the toppings.

5. Why is my soup too sweet?
Overcooking the onions can lead to excessive sweetness. Balance this by adding a splash of sherry or a pinch of salt.

Tips for Making the Perfect French Onion Soup

1. Patience with Onions: Proper caramelization takes time. Stir occasionally, but don’t rush the process.
2. Use a Good Broth: High-quality beef broth is key to achieving a robust, savory flavor. Homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
3. Opt for Oven-Safe Bowls: Investing in oven-safe bowls allows you to broil the cheese topping directly in the serving dish.
4. Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is classic, you can try adding bay leaves or a sprig of rosemary for added depth.
5. Double the Recipe: This soup is even better the next day, so make extra to enjoy later.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store the soup base in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: Freeze the soup base in individual portions for easy reheating. Avoid freezing the bread and cheese topping.

Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over medium heat. Prepare fresh bread and cheese for serving.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup is more than a dish—it’s a culinary experience that invites you to savor each step, from caramelizing the onions to broiling the cheese. The balance of flavors and textures, from the sweet and savory soup to the crispy, cheesy topping, is what makes this recipe unforgettable.

This soup has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s a meal that brings comfort, evokes nostalgia, and feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, French Onion Soup always impresses.

What sets this recipe apart is its adaptability. You can customize it to suit your preferences, experiment with different cheeses, or adjust the seasonings to make it uniquely yours. And with simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, it’s a recipe you can rely on again and again.

So, light a few candles, pour yourself a glass of wine, and let the aroma of simmering onions fill your kitchen. French Onion Soup isn’t just food—it’s an invitation to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the timeless pleasure of a dish that has warmed hearts and satisfied appetites for generations.