basic onion soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
basic onion soup recipe
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The Best basic onion soup recipe

I’ve been making this basic onion soup recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. It’s a classic French dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The first time I made it, I was surprised by how simple it was to prepare and how delicious it turned out. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites to assist with.

We like to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful broth. The aroma of sautéed onions fills the kitchen, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion alike.

I’ve made it for my family, friends, and even as a side dish for holiday gatherings. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or an impressive dish to serve at your next dinner party, this basic onion soup recipe is sure to please. I’ve also found that this soup is a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you may have on hand, making it an excellent choice for reducing food waste in your kitchen.

Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French Onion Soup

4.8 from 982 votes

A comforting and flavorful soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with crusty bread and melted cheese. It is a classic French dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp sugar
2 bay leaves

For the Topping

4 slices baguette, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2Add sliced onions, salt, and pepper.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and golden brown.
4This should take about 20-25 minutes.
5Onions should be a deep golden brown color and very soft.
6Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
7Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and bay leaves.
8Stir well to combine.
9Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
10Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes.
11This allows the flavors to meld together.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
13Remove bay leaves before serving.
14While the soup is simmering, preheat the broiler to high.
15Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
16Be careful not to burn the bread.
17Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
18Top each bowl with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses.
19Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
20Watch carefully to prevent burning.
21Remove from the broiler and let the soup rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
22This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to eat.
23Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of classic French onion soup.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Bowl
Oven-safe bowls

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a deeper flavor, use beef broth that has been simmered with beef bones and vegetables. You can also add a splash of red wine to the soup for an extra layer of complexity.

Watch Video Of How Classic French Onion Soup Works

This basic onion soup recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.

Not only is it deliciously flavorful, but it’s also incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or using it as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household just like it has in mine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Soup

Q1: What type of onions should I use?

A1: For this recipe, you’ll want to use yellow onions as they caramelize beautifully and add a sweet depth of flavor to the soup. You can also use white or shallots if that’s what you have on hand, but yellow onions are the traditional choice.

Q2: Can I make this soup in advance?

A2: Yes, you can make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup until hot and bubbly.

Q3: How do I prevent the onions from burning?

A3: To prevent the onions from burning, make sure to cook them over medium-low heat and stir them frequently as they cook down. You can also add a tablespoon of sugar to help balance out the acidity and prevent burning.

Q4: Can I add other ingredients to customize this recipe?

A4: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to give the soup an extra boost of flavor. Some popular additions include thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, or paprika.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A5: This basic onion soup recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you’re vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or olive oil.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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