Rich, slow-caramelized onions give this French Onion Soup its signature depth and natural sweetness. Simmered in a savory beef broth with a splash of dry sherry, each spoonful delivers layers of warm, comforting flavor.

Golden slices of crusty French bread crown the soup, blanketed with melted provolone, Swiss, and Parmesan cheeses. The result is a bubbling, irresistible topping that perfectly balances the hearty broth beneath.

Elegant yet approachable, this classic dish transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy experience. Serve it as a cozy starter or a satisfying main course that elevates any mealtime gathering.

French Onion Soup Ingredients

Caramelized Onions – The soul of the soup, delivering deep sweetness and rich flavor that sets the foundation for every savory sip.

Beef Broth – A robust base that infuses the soup with hearty, meaty depth and comforting warmth.

Dry Sherry – Adds a subtle brightness and complexity, lifting the flavors with a touch of refined acidity.

Crusty French Bread – Provides the perfect vessel, soaking up the broth while staying satisfyingly crisp under the broiler.

Melted Cheese Trio – Provolone, Swiss, and Parmesan create a golden, bubbly topping that crowns each bowl with irresistible richness.

Recipe Tips

1. Perfect Onion Caramelization
The key to a deeply flavored French Onion Soup is patient caramelization. Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. This gradual process develops a natural sweetness and rich golden color that gives the soup its signature depth. Rushing this step can lead to uneven browning or bitter flavors, so allow at least 30 minutes for the onions to reach their full potential. A pinch of salt early on helps draw out moisture and speeds up the softening process without compromising sweetness.

2. Broth Selection Matters
A rich, flavorful broth is essential. Opt for a high-quality beef stock or homemade version whenever possible. If using store-bought broth, choose a low-sodium option so you can control the seasoning. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken or vegetable stock to create a more complex base. Deglazing the pot with the dry sherry before adding broth helps release the caramelized bits stuck to the bottom, enhancing the overall taste.

3. Achieving the Perfect Cheese Crust
For that irresistible gooey topping, use a combination of provolone, Swiss, and Parmesan as directed. Broil the assembled bowls until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown. Keep a close watch—cheese can go from perfect to burnt quickly under high heat. Pre-toasting the bread slices before topping ensures they stay crisp and don’t become soggy in the broth.

What to Serve with French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance its rich flavors. A side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, adds texture and earthy notes to the meal. For heartier fare, serve alongside a simple grilled steak or roasted chicken, turning this classic starter into a satisfying main course. Each option enhances the soup’s savory-sweet profile without overshadowing its comforting warmth.

FAQ

Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works well for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version, though the flavor will be less robust.

Q: How can I make this soup ahead of time?
Prepare the onion and broth base a day in advance. Reheat gently and add the bread and cheese just before serving.

Q: What’s the best onion variety for this soup?
Yellow onions are traditional for their balanced sweetness, but a mix of yellow and sweet onions deepens the flavor.

Q: Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
You can freeze the broth and onion mixture, but add bread and cheese only after reheating for the best texture.