Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these 20 creamy French onion soup recipes that put a twist on the classic! The rich, velvety flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese are a match made in heaven, but why stick to just one when you can try so many more? From vegan options using cashew cream to indulgent variations featuring truffle oil and Parmesan crisps, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping addition to your next dinner party, these creamy French onion soup recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? Each one is a unique take on the original, so you can experiment and find your new favorite.
So go ahead, grab a crusty baguette and get ready to dive into the world of creamy French onion soups like never before!
Classic French Onion Soup with Gruyère Croutons
This beloved soup is a masterclass in simplicity, with caramelized onions and rich beef broth elevated by the perfect balance of flavors. A crouton topped with melted Gruyère cheese adds a satisfying crunch to this comforting classic.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add oil and cook onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each with a toasted baguette slice and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Thyme
Transform a classic soup into an effortless slow-cooker delight with the addition of thyme’s subtle, savory flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions; cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
2. In the slow cooker, combine cooked onions, flour, thyme, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with Gruyère cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegan French Onion Soup with Cashew Cream
Vegan French Onion Soup with Cashew Cream: A rich and savory soup that simmers caramelized onions in a flavorful vegetable broth, topped with a creamy cashew-based crouton substitute.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions in olive oil over medium heat until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.
4. Blend cashews with garlic (if using) until smooth and creamy.
5. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, topping each with a dollop of cashew cream.
6. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until top is lightly browned.
7. Garnish with parsley or thyme. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Red Wine and Mushrooms
Elevate the classic French onion soup by adding rich red wine and earthy mushrooms to create a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add red wine, beef broth, flour, and mushrooms. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Arrange toasted baguette slices in oven-proof bowls. Ladle soup over bread and top with Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot French Onion Soup with Caramelized Shallots
Transform your taste buds with this rich and flavorful French onion soup, elevated by the deep sweetness of caramelized shallots cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4-6 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add onions, shallots, and garlic; cook until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
2. Add thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. Pour in chicken broth and Gruyère cheese; stir well.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
French Onion Soup with Bacon and Aged Cheddar
Elevate the classic French onion soup by adding crispy bacon and rich aged cheddar for a depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated aged cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté sliced onions until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette slice and grated aged cheddar cheese.
6. Place under broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with crispy bacon pieces.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Gluten-Free French Onion Soup with Almond Flour Croutons
Rich and flavorful, this gluten-free version of the classic French onion soup is a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions. By substituting traditional bread with almond flour croutons, you’ll experience a delightful texture contrast that will elevate your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the soup:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry white wine (or gluten-free alternative)
– 6 cups beef broth (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (gluten-free)
For the almond flour croutons:
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and cook onions until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add wine, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix almond flour and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
5. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
6. To assemble the soup, ladle into bowls and top each with a crouton and melted Gruyère cheese.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
French Onion Soup with Brie and Rosemary
Elevate the humble French onion soup by adding creamy brie cheese and fragrant rosemary. This elegant twist is perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, crumbled
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add wine and cook until reduced by half.
3. Add broth, garlic, brie cheese, and rosemary. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls and top each with toasted baguette slice.
6. Broil until brie is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy French Onion Soup with Jalapeños and Pepper Jack
A twist on the classic French onion soup, this recipe adds a spicy kick from jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. Rich beef broth and caramelized onions create a depth of flavor that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add beef broth and diced tomatoes, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add chopped jalapeños. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top with shredded pepper jack cheese and paprika.
7. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Garlic Confit and Sourdough
This recipe elevates the traditional French Onion Soup by adding a rich garlic confit and pairing it with crispy sourdough bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices (sourdough or regular)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large saucepan, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add butter, white wine, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, toast sourdough bread slices in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, topping with toasted bread and grated Gruyère cheese.
7. Bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion Soup with White Wine and Tarragon
French Onion Soup with White Wine and Tarragon: A rich and flavorful twist on the classic recipe, this soup combines caramelized onions, white wine, and tarragon for a sophisticated taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (25-30 minutes).
2. Add white wine to the saucepan and cook, stirring to deglaze the pan, until liquid has almost completely reduced (5 minutes).
3. Add beef broth, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler.
5. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each with toasted baguette slice and sprinkle Gruyère cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (2-3 minutes).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes.
French Onion Soup with Caramelized Fennel and Goat Cheese
Elevate the classic French onion soup to new heights by incorporating sweet caramelized fennel and creamy goat cheese. This rich and savory soup is perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 bulbs of fennel, sliced into thin wedges
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize the onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add fennel wedges to the skillet and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. In a separate pot, combine beef broth and caramelized onion mixture. Simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices.
6. Assemble soup by ladling hot broth over toasted bread, then topping with goat cheese crumbles. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion Soup with Truffle Oil and Parmesan Crisps
Elevate the classic French onion soup recipe by adding a luxurious touch of truffle oil and crunchy Parmesan crisps. This creamy, savory soup is perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 teaspoons truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add wine, beef broth, and truffle oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a Parmesan crisp (see below) and garnish with thyme leaves.
Parmesan Crisps:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese in an even layer.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Beer and Smoked Gouda
This rich and flavorful soup combines the classic caramelized onions, beer, and smoked gouda for a velvety smooth treat. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup beer (ale or lager)
– 1/2 cup Smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions; cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle flour over onions; cook 1 minute.
4. Gradually add broth and beer, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each with toasted bread and shredded Smoked Gouda. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Onion Soup with Leeks and Fontina
This rich and savory soup is a twist on the classic French onion, featuring caramelized leeks and melted fontina cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin rounds
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated fontina cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and tender, about 20 minutes.
2. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the saucepan. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with grated fontina cheese.
7. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Balsamic Glaze and Asiago
This recipe takes the traditional French Onion Soup to new heights by adding a rich balsamic glaze and nutty Asiago cheese. The result is a depth of flavor that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 4 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil, then onions, and cook until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
2. Add beef broth, wine (if using), and balsamic glaze. Bring to a simmer.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, top each with toasted baguette slice and Asiago cheese.
5. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
French Onion Soup with Wild Mushrooms and Thyme
Elevate the classic French onion soup by adding earthy wild mushrooms and a hint of thyme. This recipe combines caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and aromatic mushroom duxelles for a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Gruyère cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, wine, and thyme to the saucepan. Cook until liquid is almost completely reduced.
3. Add beef broth to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
4. Preheat broiler. Place toasted baguette slices on top of soup and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese (if using). Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Onion Soup with Caramelized Apples and Blue Cheese
This recipe combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with the natural sweetness of caramelized apples and the pungency of blue cheese, creating a unique and delicious twist on a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
2. Add sugar and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add apples to the saucepan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth to the saucepan and bring to a simmer.
5. Preheat broiler. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, top each with toasted baguette slice and crumbled blue cheese.
6. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
French Onion Soup with Sherry and Manchego
Elevate your French onion soup game by adding the nutty flavor of Manchego cheese and a hint of sweetness from Sherry. This creamy, caramelized onion soup is perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup dry Sherry wine
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices Manchego cheese (about 1/2 inch thick)
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
2. Add Sherry, broth, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of Manchego cheese.
5. Place under the broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hot, topped with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: About 35 minutes
French Onion Soup with Herbed Croutons and Provolone
Elevate your soup game with this classic French Onion recipe, elevated by the addition of aromatic herbed croutons and melted provolone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of baguette
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Provolone cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add olive oil, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, preheat broiler.
5. To make herbed croutons, slice baguette into 1-inch cubes. Toss with olive oil, thyme, and salt. Spread on baking sheet and toast in oven until golden brown.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with a crouton, melted Provolone cheese, and a sprinkle of Gruyère.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of France with these 20 creative twists on classic French onion soup. From vegan options using cashew cream to indulgent combinations featuring truffle oil and Parmesan crisps, there’s a recipe for every taste bud. Discover how to elevate this beloved dish with ingredients like gruyère croutons, caramelized shallots, and smoky Gouda. Whether you’re a traditionalist or looking to innovate, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
