20+ Mouthwatering French Onion Soup Recipes for Soup Lovers

French onion soup is a timeless classic that has earned a permanent place in kitchens worldwide.

With its rich, savory broth, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, this dish offers the ultimate comfort, especially on a cold winter day.

But did you know there are endless ways to tweak this beloved recipe? Whether you prefer a traditional French-style soup or want to experiment with unique variations, there’s a French onion soup recipe out there for everyone.

In this blog, we’re sharing 20+ delicious French onion soup recipes that will elevate your culinary skills and offer endless flavor combinations.

From vegetarian takes to gourmet renditions and quick weeknight options, get ready to find your new favorite soup recipe.

20+ Mouthwatering French Onion Soup Recipes for Soup Lovers

With over 20 French onion soup recipes to explore, you’ll never run out of delicious and creative ways to enjoy this savory delight.

Whether you’re sticking to the traditional recipe or trying out innovative variations with different cheeses, broths, or added ingredients like roasted vegetables or meats, the possibilities are endless.

French onion soup is not only a classic, but it’s also a versatile dish that can be adapted to fit any palate.

So grab a bowl, top it with golden, melted cheese, and dive into the comforting world of French onion soup—there’s a recipe for every occasion and craving.

Classic French Onion Soup

Classic French onion soup is a timeless, comforting dish that layers the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and a golden, cheesy topping. The combination of slow-cooked onions and melted cheese over a crispy baguette creates a rich and satisfying experience. Perfect for cozy evenings or elegant dinners, this soup offers a heartwarming balance of flavors that are sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 40-45 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the broth, thyme, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. Preheat your broiler. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Broil the soup for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy!

This classic French onion soup provides a rich, hearty experience with every spoonful. The caramelized onions impart a depth of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory broth, while the cheese-topped baguette brings the dish to life with a satisfying crunch. It’s an ideal soup for special occasions, yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or the main course, this soup is a true comfort food classic.

French Onion Soup with a Twist of Red Wine

This version of French onion soup incorporates a splash of red wine, adding depth and complexity to the traditional flavor profile. The wine infuses the broth with a rich, slightly tangy note, enhancing the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, this soup is a refined take on the original that will impress both family and guests.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine
  • 5 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices sourdough bread
  • 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, and cook for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the red wine, stirring to deglaze the pot. Let the wine simmer and reduce for 5 minutes.
  3. Add the beef broth, balsamic vinegar, thyme, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toast the sourdough slices until golden brown.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with a slice of toasted sourdough, and sprinkle generously with Swiss and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, savory flavors!

This red wine-infused French onion soup offers a sophisticated twist on the classic, with the wine adding an extra layer of depth to the broth. The balsamic vinegar gives a subtle sweetness that complements the caramelized onions beautifully. The combination of Swiss and Parmesan cheeses on top creates a perfectly gooey and savory finish. This variation is ideal for those looking for a more refined version of a beloved dish while still enjoying the heartiness and warmth that French onion soup is known for.

Vegan French Onion Soup

This vegan French onion soup brings all the rich, caramelized flavor of the classic recipe without any dairy or meat. By using vegetable broth and a dairy-free cheese alternative, the soup retains its soul-warming depth and satisfying flavor, making it a perfect choice for those following a plant-based diet. The soup is equally rich, savory, and comforting, with a slightly sweet undertone from the caramelized onions and a crispy bread topping.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices of vegan baguette
  • 2 cups shredded vegan cheese (such as cashew cheese or dairy-free mozzarella)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 40 minutes until the onions are caramelized, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, then pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot. Allow the wine to simmer for 3 minutes.
  3. Add the vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Preheat the broiler. Toast the vegan baguette slices until golden and crispy.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place the toasted bread on top, and sprinkle with shredded vegan cheese.
  6. Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve immediately, enjoying the plant-based goodness!

This vegan French onion soup is a fantastic alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for dietary restrictions. The caramelized onions deliver the signature sweetness, and the vegetable broth provides a hearty base that complements the flavors. The dairy-free cheese on top melts perfectly, creating that satisfying, cheesy pull we love in French onion soup. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to try something different, this version delivers all the comfort of the original in a cruelty-free way.

French Onion Soup with Gruyère and Cheddar Blend

This version of French onion soup combines two types of cheese—Gruyère and sharp Cheddar—creating a bold, flavorful twist on the classic. The Gruyère provides the rich, nutty flavor that French onion soup is known for, while the Cheddar brings a sharper, more tangy note. The result is a deeply satisfying, cheesy soup that’s perfect for those who crave a stronger, more complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 40 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Add the wine and stir to deglaze the pot, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in both the beef and vegetable broths, thyme, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden brown.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with a slice of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with the Gruyère and Cheddar cheese mixture.
  6. Broil the soup for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness.

The combination of Gruyère and sharp Cheddar cheese elevates this French onion soup to a whole new level. The Gruyère provides its signature nutty richness, while the Cheddar adds a sharper, tangy bite that perfectly complements the caramelized onions. With the cheese bubbling on top of the crispy baguette, each spoonful is an indulgent treat. This version is perfect for those who appreciate a little extra flavor and complexity in their French onion soup, making it an unforgettable meal for any occasion.

French Onion Soup with Mushroom and Truffle Oil

For a gourmet twist on the traditional French onion soup, this recipe incorporates earthy mushrooms and luxurious truffle oil. The mushrooms add depth and umami, while the truffle oil offers a fragrant, rich flavor that takes the soup to a whole new level of indulgence. This version is perfect for special occasions when you want to wow your guests with something truly unique.

Ingredients

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon truffle oil (for drizzling)
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 40 minutes, until they are caramelized.
  2. Add the mushrooms to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, letting the flavors come together.
  5. Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until crispy and golden brown.
  6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
  7. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Drizzle each serving with truffle oil and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This mushroom and truffle oil French onion soup is a luxurious and sophisticated variation on the classic. The earthy mushrooms and truffle oil add a level of richness that complements the sweet caramelized onions perfectly. The melted Gruyère cheese on top of the crispy baguette brings everything together, making each bite an unforgettable indulgence. This gourmet twist is perfect for a special dinner or whenever you want to elevate a simple soup into something extraordinary.

Spicy French Onion Soup with Jalapeños

If you love a little heat in your food, this spicy French onion soup with jalapeños is the perfect twist on the classic. The caramelized onions provide the usual depth of flavor, while the addition of sliced jalapeños infuses the broth with a spicy kick. It’s an unexpected but delightful variation for those who enjoy a little extra heat in their soups.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2-3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, and cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized.
  2. Add the sliced jalapeños and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften.
  3. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top, and sprinkle generously with both Gruyère and Monterey Jack cheese.
  7. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

This spicy French onion soup adds a fiery twist to the traditional recipe, with the jalapeños introducing a bold heat that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the caramelized onions. The combination of Gruyère and Monterey Jack cheese creates a rich, gooey topping that melts perfectly into the soup. Garnished with fresh cilantro, this soup is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a spicy kick and a hearty, comforting meal.

Classic French Onion Soup with a Wine Reduction

This classic French onion soup features a rich, wine-infused broth that adds depth and complexity to the already sweet and savory caramelized onions. The slow simmering process allows the wine and beef broth to combine into a velvety base, making this soup a perfect comforting dish for any season. Topped with a golden, bubbling cheese crust, this version highlights the best elements of traditional French onion soup with a refined touch.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (preferably Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized.
  2. Pour in the red wine and balsamic vinegar, stirring to deglaze the pot, and allow the mixture to reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot, and bring the soup to a simmer. Cook for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden and crisp.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
  6. Broil the soup for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting layers of flavor.

This classic French onion soup with a wine reduction is a warm, comforting dish that elevates the traditional recipe with the addition of red wine and balsamic vinegar. The wine reduction intensifies the flavor of the broth, adding complexity to the sweetness of the caramelized onions. The Gruyère cheese melts perfectly into a golden crust, making this soup a satisfying and indulgent treat. It’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly day or impressing guests with a classic French-inspired dish.

Vegan French Onion Soup with Cashew Cream

This vegan version of French onion soup replaces the traditional beef broth with vegetable broth and uses cashew cream to replicate the creamy, rich texture of cheese. It’s a fantastic alternative for those following a plant-based diet or avoiding dairy, without compromising on flavor. The combination of caramelized onions and savory vegetable broth makes this soup a heartwarming and satisfying meal for everyone.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 4 slices whole-grain or baguette bread
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 40 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Pour in the white wine, stirring to deglaze the pot, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Add the vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
  4. While the soup is simmering, prepare the cashew cream. Drain and rinse the soaked cashews, then blend them with 1/2 cup of water and nutritional yeast until smooth and creamy.
  5. Preheat the broiler. Toast the bread slices until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Once the soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Add a slice of toasted bread on top of each, and drizzle with cashew cream.
  7. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the bread is crisp and the cashew cream is slightly golden.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

This vegan French onion soup is a delicious and creamy alternative to the traditional recipe, offering all the deep, savory flavors without any dairy or meat. The cashew cream brings a richness that rivals cheese, and the caramelized onions provide the classic sweet and savory base. Whether you’re vegan or simply seeking a lighter, plant-based option, this soup is a perfect choice that’s both comforting and flavorful. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy French onion soup while staying true to a plant-based diet.

Spicy French Onion Soup with Chipotle

For those who like their soups with a kick, this spicy French onion soup with chipotle brings a smoky, spicy depth of flavor to the traditional dish. The chipotle peppers add heat and a smoky undertone that perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions. This variation is a great choice for anyone who loves bold flavors and wants to spice up their French onion soup experience.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Add the minced chipotle peppers and smoked paprika to the onions, stirring for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
  3. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot, and bring the soup to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden brown and crisp.
  6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
  7. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

This spicy French onion soup with chipotle peppers offers a deliciously smoky and spicy twist on the traditional recipe. The chipotle adds a deep, fiery heat that perfectly complements the sweet caramelized onions, while the Gruyère cheese provides the classic creamy, rich topping. This soup is perfect for spice lovers who want to add a bold and exciting twist to the comforting classic French onion soup. It’s a wonderful dish for those who crave a bit of adventure in their culinary experience.

French Onion Soup with Mushroom Medley

This variation of French onion soup incorporates a blend of earthy mushrooms to create a more robust and hearty soup. The mushrooms add a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions and enhances the richness of the broth. Whether you’re a mushroom lover or looking to elevate the traditional French onion soup, this variation will impress with its hearty and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and portobello), sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized.
  2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and become tender.
  3. Pour in the white wine and balsamic vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for another 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
  5. Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until crispy and golden.
  6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted bread on top of each, and generously sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
  7. Broil the soup for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

This French onion soup with a mushroom medley adds an earthy depth of flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the caramelized onions. The mushrooms lend a hearty texture to the soup, making it even more satisfying. The rich, savory broth, combined with the gooey Gruyère cheese on top, creates a comforting and indulgent meal perfect for cozy nights. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this variation is a great way to enjoy French onion soup with an added twist.

French Onion Soup with Truffle Oil

For a luxurious and indulgent take on the classic French onion soup, this version incorporates truffle oil to give the soup an aromatic richness that elevates the entire dish. The truffle oil infuses the caramelized onions and broth with a rich, earthy flavor that feels elegant and gourmet. Topped with melty cheese and a crispy baguette, this soup is a perfect option for a special occasion or a refined weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 tablespoon truffle oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
  2. Pour in the white wine and balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pot. Let the wine reduce for 5 minutes, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
  3. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
  4. Preheat the broiler. Toast the slices of baguette until crispy and golden brown.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted bread on top, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
  6. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Drizzle the soup with truffle oil, season with black pepper, and serve hot.

This French onion soup with truffle oil is a decadent and sophisticated twist on the classic recipe. The truffle oil adds a layer of richness and complexity, making each spoonful feel like a luxurious experience. With the combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey cheese, this soup is both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself, this elevated version of French onion soup will definitely impress your guests or make a special meal for yourself.

Cheddar and Ale French Onion Soup

This version of French onion soup combines the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the rich, malty flavor of ale for a hearty and savory soup. The ale adds depth and complexity to the broth, while the cheddar cheese creates a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the caramelized onions. This twist on a classic is perfect for those who love the combination of cheese and beer and want to add a little something extra to their French onion soup.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup ale (preferably a pale ale or amber ale)
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
  2. Pour in the ale and cook for 5 minutes to reduce it slightly.
  3. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for another 20 minutes.
  4. Preheat the broiler. Toast the slices of baguette until golden and crispy.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted bread on top of each, and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Broil for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.

This cheddar and ale French onion soup is a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors with a slightly tangy and malty depth from the ale. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramelized onions, making each bite uniquely satisfying. This soup is a great option for anyone who enjoys a heartier, more robust French onion soup and is perfect for a cozy, comforting meal with a twist. Pair it with a hearty bread for the ultimate experience.

Caramelized Onion and Sweet Potato French Onion Soup

This unique version of French onion soup incorporates roasted sweet potatoes, adding a subtle sweetness and creamy texture that complements the caramelized onions beautifully. The natural sugars in the sweet potatoes caramelize during roasting, adding an extra layer of depth to the soup’s flavor profile. Perfect for fall or winter, this comforting dish brings a new dimension to the classic French onion soup.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized.
  3. Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the pot with the caramelized onions. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and apple cider vinegar.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring the soup to a simmer, and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Preheat the broiler. Toast the slices of French baguette until golden and crispy.
  6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
  7. Broil the soup for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

This caramelized onion and sweet potato French onion soup offers a heartwarming and slightly sweet twist on the classic. The roasted sweet potatoes provide a creamy texture and a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs wonderfully with the deep, savory taste of the caramelized onions. Topped with Gruyère cheese and a crispy baguette, this soup is both satisfying and unique. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a new take on the beloved French onion soup while embracing the flavors of fall.

French Onion Soup with a Red Wine Reduction

In this version of French onion soup, red wine adds a rich and deep layer of flavor to the broth. The wine is reduced to concentrate its sweetness and complexity, making the soup more robust and luxurious. With the addition of fresh thyme and a crispy layer of cheese-topped baguette, this recipe transforms French onion soup into an elegant and refined dish, ideal for special occasions or an upscale dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
  2. Pour in the red wine and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce and concentrate its flavor.
  3. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  4. Preheat the broiler. Toast the slices of French baguette until golden and crispy.
  5. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
  6. Broil the soup for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.

The French onion soup with red wine reduction brings a sophisticated and bold flavor to the traditional recipe. The red wine adds a layer of complexity, elevating the soup’s natural sweetness and savory notes. Combined with the creamy Gruyère cheese and crispy baguette, this soup is perfect for a cozy evening or an elegant dinner. The depth of flavor from the wine reduction makes this version stand out, making it an unforgettable dish to enjoy with loved ones.

French Onion Soup with Caramelized Shallots

This recipe puts a twist on the classic French onion soup by using caramelized shallots in place of some of the onions. Shallots have a milder, more delicate flavor that adds complexity and sweetness to the soup. Combined with the rich broth, melted Gruyère cheese, and crispy baguette, this version of French onion soup offers a refined and slightly sweeter taste that elevates the dish to new heights.

Ingredients

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 large shallots, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 slices French baguette
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, shallots, and salt, cooking them slowly for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
  2. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Preheat the broiler. Toast the slices of French baguette until golden and crispy.
  4. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
  5. Broil for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.

This French onion soup with caramelized shallots adds a new depth of flavor with its subtle sweetness and delicate texture. The shallots provide a refined taste that complements the rich, savory broth, making each spoonful feel luxurious. Topped with Gruyère cheese and a crispy baguette, this soup offers a comforting yet elevated dining experience. Whether you’re a fan of shallots or simply looking to try a different twist on the classic, this version is sure to impress.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!