Rich and Simple French Onion Soup

Cozy Up with This Easy French Onion Soup Recipe

These rich and inviting bowls of French onion soup are packed with layers of sweet caramelized onions and a medley of melty cheese. Whip up this classic comfort dish in about 45 minutes, perfect for a chilly evening. If you’re searching for an approachable recipe to serve your family or friends, you’ve found it!

Picture this: a cozy kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of slowly caramelized onions, simmering beef broth, and a blanket of golden melted cheese. This French onion soup isn’t just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl, a delightful experience that brings warmth and smiles on even the coldest of nights. Let me take you through this simple yet delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup

This French onion soup brings together the warmth and heartiness of home-cooked meals. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can transform humble onions into a delicious masterpiece that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, meaning you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

How to Make Rich and Simple French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups sliced onions
• 5 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• A pinch of salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices French bread
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 2 slices Swiss cheese, diced
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Gather all the ingredients.
2. Melt the butter with olive oil in an 8-quart stock pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, stirring continually until they are tender and translucent. Avoid browning the onions as we want that sweet, soft texture.
3. Pour in the beef broth, dry sherry, and thyme, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this delicious mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Meanwhile, preheat your oven’s broiler.
4. Ladle the soup into oven-safe serving bowls and place one slice of French bread on top of each bowl (you can break the bread into pieces if you prefer). Then layer each slice of bread with a slice of provolone, half a slice of diced Swiss, and a tablespoon of Parmesan cheese.
5. Place the bowls on a cookie sheet and broil in the preheated oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the smiles as each spoonful warms you from the inside out!

Serving Suggestions for Your French Onion Soup

This delightful soup shines on its own, but it can also be paired beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal. Consider preparing a light fruit tart for dessert to round out a cozy evening.

Storing Your French Onion Soup

If you have leftovers (though that’s a rarity), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it over low heat on the stove until heated through.

Tips for Making the Best French Onion Soup

• Be patient with your onions; caramelization is key to developing that rich flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with different kinds of cheese to find your favorite combination.
• For a deeper flavor, use a quality beef broth or homemade stock if you have it on hand.

Variations You Can Try

• For a vegetarian version, swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
• Add thinly sliced mushrooms or shallots for a unique twist on this classic dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the cheese and broil it right before serving.

2. How do I avoid over-browning the onions? Stirring continuously on medium heat will help prevent them from browning too quickly.

3. Can I freeze the French onion soup? Yes! However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the cheese. Add the cheese fresh when reheating to maintain its texture.

Making this rich and simple French onion soup is not only straightforward but also a memorable culinary experience that fills your home with warmth. So, gather your ingredients and savor the journey as you create this beloved classic!