French Onion Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a warm, hearty bowl of goodness. This timeless dish combines caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and gooey melted cheese atop crusty bread. It’s simple yet elegant, bringing a sense of indulgence to your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup :
Health Benefits
- Packed with Nutrients: Onions are loaded with antioxidants and compounds that support heart health and boost immunity.
- Protein-Rich: The beef broth and cheese add a healthy dose of protein to keep you energized.
- Low in Calories: While comforting, this soup remains a light meal option, especially if you choose lighter cheese and whole-grain bread.
Other Advantages
- Affordable Ingredients: Most of the components are pantry staples.
- Elegant Yet Easy: A great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences—vegetarian broth, gluten-free bread, or extra cheese!
French Onion Soup
Description
Imagine sitting down with a steaming bowl of French Onion Soup, its savory aroma wafting through the air. The rich, golden broth is packed with sweet, caramelized onions, topped with a slice of crisp baguette smothered in melted cheese. As your spoon breaks through the cheesy crust, you’re greeted by warm, hearty flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of your meal, this classic soup is pure comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
For The Soup
For the Topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the Onions
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well.
- Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and caramelized. (Add sugar halfway if desired for extra sweetness.)
-
Step 2: Add the Broth
- Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the beef broth and wine (if using).
- Toss in the bay leaf and thyme. Stir everything together.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to blend the flavors.
-
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
- While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
-
Step 4: Assemble the Soup
- Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
-
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
- Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Be careful when handling the hot bowls—use oven mitts!
-
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and garnish with a sprig of thyme if desired. Let the soup cool slightly before diving in.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 375kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Sodium 850mg36%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 14g29%
- Calcium 200 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Key Notes
- Low in Calories: A great lighter meal option when paired with a salad.
- Rich in Protein: Thanks to the beef broth and cheese.
- Good Source of Calcium: Gruyère or Swiss cheese contributes to healthy bones.
- Can Be Lowered in Sodium: Use a low-sodium broth or cheese to reduce salt content.
This soup provides a balanced mix of carbs, fats, and proteins while staying comforting and satisfying!
