French Onion Soup with Garlic Butter Croutons is a rich, comforting classic made with deeply caramelized onions in savory broth, topped with crispy buttery croutons and melted cheese.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop and Broiling
Cuisine:French
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
onions, thinly sliced
butter
olive oil
garlic, minced
beef broth (or vegetable broth)
dry white wine (optional)
thyme (fresh or dried)
bay leaf
salt
black pepper
baguette or crusty bread, sliced
butter (for croutons)
grated or sliced cheese (such as Gruyère or Swiss)
Instructions
Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until deeply caramelized.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add white wine if using and simmer until reduced.
Pour in broth, then add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.
Preheat oven and prepare croutons by spreading butter and garlic on bread slices.
Toast bread until golden and crisp.
Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls.
Top with garlic butter croutons and cheese.
Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot.
Notes
Use a mix of onions for deeper flavor.
Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss or mozzarella can be used.
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra richness.
Store soup without toppings for best results.
Prepare fresh croutons when serving to keep them crisp.