Whole Meal French Onion Soup
A rich, savory French Onion Soup with caramelized onions, flavorful beef broth, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting meals and entertaining guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sliced onions in margarine in a soup pot until translucent and light brown.
- Sprinkle with flour and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Dissolve beef bouillon cubes in boiling water.
- Pour the beef broth over the onion mixture and add Worcestershire sauce.
- Let stand for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ladle the soup into ovenproof mugs.
- Top each mug with a slice of French bread and turn to soak both sides.
- Place a slice of cheese over the bread.
- Bake at 450°F for 12 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of red and yellow onions. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a good substitute. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef bouillon with vegetable bouillon and use plant-based margarine. Ensure to stir the onions frequently to prevent burning while sautéing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, topped with the melted cheese and bread. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or a light, crusty baguette. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Tarte 'A La Tomate for a delightful combination of flavors.
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 low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as the bread may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Meal French Onion Soup contains roughly 344 calories, with 11g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1332mg per serving (58% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the bread and cheese just before serving to ensure the bread stays fresh and the cheese melts beautifully.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Gruyère cheese is traditional and melts wonderfully, but you can also use mozzarella or provolone for a milder flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the bread and cheese. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then add fresh bread and cheese just before serving.
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).