Grandma Craig'S French Onion Soup
A hearty and comforting French onion soup featuring caramelized onions, flavorful beef broth, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for cozy gatherings or a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart pan, sauté onions in butter and oil for 15 minutes.
- Add sugar and salt to the onions.
- Continue cooking for 30 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a mix of yellow and sweet onions to enhance the flavor profile. If you're short on time, consider using pre-sliced onions. You can also substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version. To deepen the flavor, add a splash of white wine or a dash of Worcestershire sauce during the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French onion soup hot, topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Monterey Jack cheese for a comforting meal. This dish is excellent paired with a side salad or a light sandwich. It also complements beef recipes, like Polish Pot Roast, for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. For a freshly melted cheese topping, consider broiling individual servings with cheese until bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Craig'S French Onion Soup contains roughly 6977 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 773g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1779mg per serving (77% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, and consider adding fresh cheese on top just before serving for that classic melty finish.
What type of cheese is best for French onion soup?
While Monterey Jack is used in this recipe, Gruyère or Swiss cheese are traditional choices that provide a rich, nutty flavor. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique taste. Just ensure they melt well for the perfect topping.
Can I freeze French onion soup?
Yes, French onion soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove.
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).