The Best Homemade Onion Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s simple yet full of flavor, this homemade onion soup is a winner. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you just crave something warm and satisfying. You’ll love how the caramelized onions create a rich, sweet base that’s balanced perfectly with savory broth. Fresh herbs and a hint of cheese add layers of flavor that make every spoonful delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make with just a few basic ingredients you probably already have at home.
Recipe
Onion soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This classic recipe features caramelized onions in a rich broth, topped with toasted bread and melted cheese. Simple yet satisfying, it’s perfect for a hearty meal on a cold day.
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 slices crusty bread
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30–40 minutes until onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- Add white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the pot. Stir in beef broth, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of bread and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
- Place the bowls under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for beef and chicken broth.
- The onions can be caramelized in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Oven-safe soup bowls
- Broiler
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cuisine: French
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
This homemade onion soup is packed with nutrients and flavor. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 215 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade onion soup with cheese toasts, as they’re crispy, cheesy, and soak up the broth perfectly. A fresh green salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup. It’s a simple combo that makes the meal feel complete without too much fuss.
Cheese Toasts
Topping off a warm bowl of homemade onion soup, cheese toasts add a crunchy, gooey layer that’s hard to resist. I love experimenting with cheese varieties—Gruyère melts beautifully, while sharp cheddar adds a bold kick. For toast toppings, I keep it simple: a slice of crusty baguette, brushed with garlic butter, then piled high with cheese before broiling until bubbly. Sometimes I sprinkle herbs or a dash of paprika for extra flavor. Trust me, the contrast of crispy bread and melty cheese makes every spoonful of soup even better. It’s the perfect pairing, no fancy tricks needed!
Green Salad
Even though onion soup is rich and hearty, pairing it with a fresh green salad can lighten up the meal and add a revitalizing contrast. I love tossing together crispy greens like romaine or arugula with simple, fresh ingredients—think cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette. The crunch of the lettuce balances the soup’s creamy texture, making each bite feel balanced. Sometimes I’ll add a handful of nuts or croutons for extra texture. It’s an easy side that doesn’t steal the spotlight but still brings brightness to the table. Trust me, you’ll love the combo!
