French onion soup is a classic, beloved comfort food, known for its rich, savory flavors and hearty texture. But what if you could make this delicious dish even easier and more convenient?
Enter the slow cooker. With the magic of slow cooking, you can create a deeply flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth French onion soup without having to constantly watch over it.
From classic recipes to exciting twists that feature ingredients like roasted garlic, mushrooms, and Marsala wine, there’s a slow cooker French onion soup recipe for every taste.
In this blog article, we’ve rounded up 30+ slow cooker French onion soup recipes that take the stress out of cooking while delivering the rich, caramelized flavors that make this soup so irresistible.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional version or a fun variation, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe to warm your soul.
30+ Easy Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Recipes for Effortless Cooking
Slow cooker French onion soup recipes bring the beloved flavors of this French classic to your kitchen with ease and convenience.
These recipes allow you to enjoy the comfort of a warm, cheesy bowl of soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re craving a traditional, savory version or something with a unique twist like mushrooms or wine, the slow cooker makes it simple to create an unforgettable meal.
So, gather your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the deliciously sweet and savory flavors of slow-cooked French onion soup.
Classic Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
This classic slow cooker French onion soup is a warm, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Slowly simmered in the crockpot, this recipe infuses the onions with rich, savory flavors, creating a hearty broth topped with melted cheese and crispy bread. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this is a must-try for soup lovers.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves (fresh or dried)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 slices French baguette
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the onions soften and begin to caramelize.
- Transfer the onions to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, white wine, thyme, bay leaves, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to develop a rich depth of flavor.
- Once the soup is done, preheat the broiler in your oven. Place the French baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy.
- To serve, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with a toasted baguette slice, and sprinkle with Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses. Broil the bowls for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This classic slow cooker French onion soup is everything you could want in a cozy meal—rich, flavorful, and satisfying. The slow cooking process allows the onions to caramelize and meld with the broth, creating a deeply savory taste that’s balanced perfectly with the gooey cheese and crunchy bread topping. It’s a perfect dish for entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet night in with loved ones. You can easily adjust the recipe to your preferences by using different types of cheese or adding extra seasonings.
Crockpot Creamy French Onion Soup
For those who love a creamier twist on the traditional French onion soup, this slow cooker creamy version offers a smooth, velvety texture. The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a luscious body while maintaining the signature onion and broth flavors. It’s a comforting choice when you’re craving something a little more decadent.
Ingredients:
- 5 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 8 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the onions, brown sugar, and salt. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until they are caramelized and golden brown.
- Transfer the onions to the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, white wine, thyme, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the soup has finished cooking, stir in the heavy cream and balsamic vinegar for added richness and a hint of tang.
- Preheat the oven’s broiler. Arrange sourdough bread slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted sourdough, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This creamy version of French onion soup is a luxurious upgrade to the traditional recipe. The addition of heavy cream and balsamic vinegar deepens the flavors and gives the soup a silky texture that complements the rich caramelized onions. The toasted bread and melty mozzarella cheese make this dish a hearty and indulgent meal. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner when you want something a bit more comforting and filling.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Bacon
This slow cooker French onion soup with bacon offers a smoky twist on the classic, making it a deliciously unique version. The bacon adds depth and richness to the broth, enhancing the savory onion flavor. With the combination of bacon, caramelized onions, and a cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 8 slices of French baguette
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, sugar, and salt, and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
- Transfer the caramelized onions and bacon to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, red wine, thyme, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Toast the French baguette slices until crispy.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top each serving with a slice of toasted baguette. Sprinkle with Gruyère and Swiss cheeses and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Adding bacon to this French onion soup recipe brings a smoky, savory depth that elevates the traditional flavors. The combination of caramelized onions, beef broth, and the richness of melted cheese creates a satisfying, flavorful meal. The crispy bacon adds texture and an irresistible aroma to each spoonful. It’s a wonderful variation that’s sure to impress guests and family alike. Perfect for chilly evenings, this version of French onion soup is hearty enough to stand as a full meal.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Caramelized Shallots
For a slightly sweeter and more delicate twist on the classic French onion soup, this version uses caramelized shallots alongside onions. The result is a richer, more complex flavor profile, with the sweet undertones of shallots balancing the savory notes of the beef broth. Paired with melted cheese and crispy bread, this soup is a true comfort dish.
Ingredients:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 large shallots, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded fontina cheese
- 8 slices French baguette
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and shallots, cooking slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until they caramelize and soften.
- Transfer the caramelized onions and shallots to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, white wine, thyme, bay leaves, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler. Place the French baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden and crispy.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, top with a slice of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with Gruyère and fontina cheeses. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
This slow cooker French onion soup with caramelized shallots is a wonderful variation that adds a unique sweetness to the dish. The slow cooking process allows the onions and shallots to blend perfectly, creating a broth that is deep and complex. The rich, melted cheese and crispy baguette make this soup an indulgent treat that is both cozy and refined. It’s a great option for those who want a twist on the traditional recipe, offering a subtle yet delicious layer of flavor.
Slow Cooker Vegan French Onion Soup
This vegan version of French onion soup is perfect for plant-based eaters or those looking for a lighter alternative without compromising on taste. Using vegetable broth and skipping the cheese, this version is still rich and flavorful, with the caramelized onions creating a depth of flavor that is just as satisfying as the original.
Ingredients:
- 5 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 8 slices whole-grain or gluten-free bread (optional)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, cooking for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden.
- Transfer the caramelized onions to the slow cooker. Add vegetable broth, white wine, thyme, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler. If using bread, toast the slices until crispy.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with a slice of toasted bread. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan touch.
This vegan slow cooker French onion soup offers all the hearty, savory flavors of the original, without any dairy. The caramelized onions provide natural sweetness, while the soy sauce and balsamic vinegar enhance the depth of flavor. The nutritional yeast adds a subtle, cheesy taste that makes the soup just as satisfying. It’s the perfect option for anyone following a plant-based diet, proving that you don’t need meat or dairy to enjoy a rich, comforting soup.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Parmesan Crisps
For a crispy, cheesy twist on the traditional French onion soup, this recipe incorporates homemade Parmesan crisps as a topping. The soup itself is rich and flavorful, while the Parmesan crisps provide a satisfying crunch and a savory, cheesy flavor. This variation is perfect for those who love texture in their soups.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 teaspoons thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices baguette (for crisps)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (for crisps)
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 25 minutes, until the onions are caramelized and softened.
- Transfer the onions to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, white wine, thyme, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. For the Parmesan crisps, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place small mounds of grated Parmesan on the sheet and flatten them into circles. Bake for 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden.
- When the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, top with shredded Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve the soup topped with the Parmesan crisps for added crunch.
The addition of Parmesan crisps elevates this slow cooker French onion soup to a new level of indulgence. The rich, caramelized onions are complemented by the savory broth, and the crispy Parmesan crisps add a delightful texture contrast. The melted cheeses on top provide that classic French onion soup finish. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a good crunch with their soup, and it’s sure to impress at your next dinner gathering.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Sage and Garlic
This recipe takes the classic French onion soup to a new level with the addition of fresh sage and garlic, creating an aromatic depth of flavor. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a rich and savory broth that’s fragrant with herbs and garlic. Paired with a gooey, cheesy topping, this soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 8 slices French baguette
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, stirring frequently for about 25 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and softened.
- Add the chopped sage and thyme to the onions and cook for another 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, white wine, bay leaves, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden and crispy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with Parmesan and Gruyère cheeses. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
The addition of sage and garlic in this slow cooker French onion soup adds a fragrant, herbal layer to the dish, giving it a comforting and savory depth. The slow-cooked onions and broth create a rich, hearty flavor, while the melted cheese and crispy baguette topping make it an indulgent treat. This version of French onion soup is perfect for those who enjoy a little extra flavor and fragrance in their meals, making it a satisfying choice for a cozy evening.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Beer and Mustard
This version of French onion soup introduces beer and a hint of mustard, which adds a tangy and slightly malty twist to the traditional soup. The beer deepens the richness of the broth, while the mustard provides a surprising zing that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the caramelized onions. It’s a unique and flavorful take on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup beer (preferably a light lager or pale ale)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 8 slices rustic bread
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking and stirring occasionally for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are caramelized.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to combine.
- Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, beer, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the bread slices until crispy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted bread, and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère and Swiss cheeses. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
The combination of beer and mustard in this slow cooker French onion soup creates a distinctive flavor that is both tangy and savory. The caramelized onions pair beautifully with the rich beer broth, while the melted cheese and toasted bread provide the perfect finishing touch. This version is ideal for those looking to try a more adventurous take on French onion soup, offering a bold and satisfying twist on a beloved classic.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Roasted Red Pepper
This version of French onion soup incorporates the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, which add a vibrant flavor and a touch of color to the traditional dish. The peppers complement the sweetness of the caramelized onions, while the broth remains rich and savory. This soup is perfect for those who enjoy a little extra complexity and a pop of color in their meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 large roasted red peppers, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 8 slices crusty bread
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and salt, cooking for about 25 minutes until they are caramelized and golden.
- Stir in the roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, and thyme, cooking for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the onion and pepper mixture to the slow cooker. Add vegetable broth, white wine, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the bread slices until golden and crispy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
The roasted red peppers in this slow cooker French onion soup offer a smoky sweetness that beautifully complements the richness of the caramelized onions. The vegetable broth and white wine create a savory base, while the cheese and toasted bread make for the perfect finishing touch. This soup is a great option for those looking to add a bit of depth and color to their French onion soup, offering a unique twist on a classic comfort food.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Balsamic and Thyme
This version of French onion soup features balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme, two ingredients that provide a wonderful depth of flavor and aromatic earthiness to the soup. The balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that balances out the richness of the caramelized onions, while the thyme infuses the broth with its herbal notes. Slow-cooked to perfection, this soup is an elegant and flavorful twist on the traditional French onion soup.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 8 slices French baguette
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until golden and caramelized.
- Add fresh thyme and balsamic vinegar, continuing to cook for 2-3 more minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Transfer the onions to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, white wine, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until crispy and golden.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a piece of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The addition of balsamic vinegar and thyme to this slow-cooked French onion soup brings out a tangy, herbaceous complexity that beautifully contrasts with the sweet, caramelized onions. The broth becomes rich and flavorful, and the melted cheese and crispy bread topping elevate the dish to something truly special. This version of French onion soup is perfect for those who appreciate a more sophisticated and nuanced take on the classic.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Apple and Cinnamon
A sweet and savory twist on the traditional French onion soup, this version incorporates apples and a hint of cinnamon. The apples add a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the caramelized onions, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the broth. The result is a comforting soup with a slightly fruity and aromatic profile, perfect for fall and winter meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 8 slices sourdough bread
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
- Add chopped apples and cinnamon to the onions, stirring to combine. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Transfer the onion-apple mixture to the slow cooker. Add vegetable broth, apple cider, thyme, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the flavors are fully developed.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the sourdough slices until crispy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted sourdough, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
The addition of apples and cinnamon in this slow cooker French onion soup brings a surprising yet delightful twist to the dish. The natural sweetness of the apples and the warmth of cinnamon beautifully complement the savory richness of the caramelized onions. The final result is a comforting, aromatic soup that is perfect for a cozy evening. This variation of French onion soup is ideal for those who enjoy a blend of sweet and savory flavors in their meals.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Coconut Milk and Curry
For an exotic and creamy variation of French onion soup, this recipe features coconut milk and a touch of curry powder. The coconut milk gives the soup a smooth and velvety texture, while the curry powder adds a mild, aromatic spiciness that complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions. This is a perfect fusion recipe for those who enjoy bold flavors and a creamy soup base.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional for garnish)
- 8 slices naan bread or pita bread
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt coconut oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Stir in curry powder and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
- Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the naan or pita bread until crispy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a piece of toasted naan, and sprinkle with cilantro and shredded coconut (optional). Broil for 2-3 minutes until the bread is warm and the soup is bubbling.
The addition of coconut milk and curry powder transforms this slow cooker French onion soup into a creamy, flavorful dish with a mild spice and aromatic complexity. The coconut milk adds richness, while the curry powder brings a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the caramelized onions. This soup is a great option for those looking for something different yet comforting, combining traditional French flavors with an exciting twist.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Roasted Garlic and White Wine
This variation of French onion soup adds roasted garlic and white wine to deepen the flavors and create a more robust, savory profile. Roasting the garlic before adding it to the soup transforms its flavor, mellowing its sharpness and bringing out its sweet, nutty undertones. The addition of white wine enhances the broth, adding complexity and brightness. The result is a rich, aromatic soup that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 heads garlic, halved horizontally
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 8 slices French baguette
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved garlic heads on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap them up. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until caramelized.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the onions, mashing them slightly as you stir. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
- Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, white wine, thyme, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your broiler. Toast the French baguette slices until golden and crispy.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted baguette, and sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Roasted garlic adds a savory, sweet note to the rich broth of this slow-cooked French onion soup, elevating the dish to new heights of flavor. The white wine infuses the soup with an extra layer of complexity and brightness, while the caramelized onions remain the star of the show. This version of French onion soup is perfect for those who enjoy a more nuanced and aromatic take on the classic, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or a cozy dinner.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Leeks and Tarragon
A unique take on traditional French onion soup, this recipe incorporates leeks and tarragon for an aromatic, herbal twist. The mild, slightly sweet flavor of the leeks adds depth to the soup, while tarragon brings a delicate, anise-like flavor that complements the caramelized onions perfectly. Slow-cooked to create a deeply flavorful broth, this soup is a delightful variation that adds a touch of French elegance to your meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 teaspoons fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 8 slices rustic French bread
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and leeks, and cook for about 25 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are soft and caramelized.
- Transfer the onions and leeks to the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, white wine, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the rustic French bread until crispy and golden.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
The inclusion of leeks and tarragon in this slow cooker French onion soup gives it a unique, sophisticated flavor. The leeks add a subtle sweetness that complements the caramelized onions, while tarragon provides an herbaceous note that brings complexity to the broth. This version of French onion soup is perfect for those who appreciate more herbal and nuanced flavors, making it an elegant choice for any dinner party or cozy night in.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Mushrooms and Marsala Wine
This French onion soup is elevated with the addition of earthy mushrooms and rich Marsala wine, creating a deep, savory broth with an added complexity. The mushrooms contribute a meaty texture and umami flavor, while Marsala wine brings a slight sweetness and depth that pairs perfectly with the onions. Slow-cooked for hours, this soup is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup Marsala wine
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 8 slices toasted sourdough bread
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their moisture.
- Transfer the onion and mushroom mixture to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, Marsala wine, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, letting the flavors meld together.
- Preheat the broiler. Toast the sourdough bread slices until golden.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with a slice of toasted bread, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
The combination of earthy mushrooms and sweet Marsala wine in this slow-cooked French onion soup brings a new level of complexity to the dish. The mushrooms add a rich, savory depth while the Marsala wine enhances the natural sweetness of the onions. This version of French onion soup is perfect for those looking for a hearty, flavorful soup with an elegant twist. It’s a comforting choice for any special occasion or simply a cozy night at home.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!