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A close-up of a classic French onion soup in a white bowl, topped with a cheesy crouton and a sprinkle of herbs.

French Onion Soup

A classic French comfort soup made with slowly caramelized onions, rich broth, and topped with toasted baguette and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: French
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 yellow onions large, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 6 cups beef broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 baguette sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups Gruyere or Emmental cheese grated

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Oven-safe soup bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 30–35 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and continue cooking for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf and thyme. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.
  7. Toast the baguette slices until golden.
  8. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with baguette slices and grated cheese, then broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

For the best flavor, take your time caramelizing the onions—they are the heart of this soup.