Baked French Onion Soup
A rich, caramelized onion soup topped with toasted bread and melted cheese, perfect for comforting gatherings and lovers of savory, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a covered 4-quart saucepan, cook onions slowly in butter and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Uncover and increase heat to moderate.
- Add sugar; sauté onions, stirring frequently, about 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Sprinkle with flour.
- Stir over heat 2 to 3 minutes.
- Blend in hot beef stock and white wine.
- Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper.
- Simmer, partially covered, for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Baked French Onion Soup, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce during the simmering stage. If you don't have cognac, brandy or even a splash of sherry can work as a substitute. For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it before serving. Always stir the onions frequently to prevent them from burning while caramelizing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Baked French Onion Soup with a side of a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Healthy Stroganoff for a delicious dinner combo. For a touch of gourmet, top with freshly grated Gruyère cheese and broil until bubbly and golden. A glass of dry white wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For best results, toast the bread separately and place it on top of the soup just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked French Onion Soup contains roughly 2664 calories, with 9g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 279g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of onion for this recipe?
While yellow onions are traditional and provide the best flavor, you can mix in sweet onions or even red onions for a different taste. Sweet onions will give a milder flavor, while red onions add a slight sweetness and color.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting the beef stock with vegetable stock. Additionally, use olive oil instead of butter and make sure the wine is vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this soup ahead of time?
You can prepare the soup base in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, add the bread and cheese, and then broil until bubbly. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comforting soup without the last-minute rush.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).