Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe

The Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe is rich, comforting and full of flavor. Sweet caramelized onions, savory broth and melted cheese make it irresistible.

This classic soup is perfect for cozy dinners, cold nights or special occasions. With simple steps, anyone can make it at home. In this post, you will learn How to make Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe easily.

You will also get the exact Ingredients for Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe and helpful tips to make it perfect every time.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first tried this soup on a rainy evening. The smell of caramelized onions filled the kitchen. Toasted bread with gooey cheese on top made it extra special.

Each spoonful was warm and flavorful. My family loved it and asked for seconds. Now, it is my go-to recipe for cozy nights.

It’s easy to make but feels elegant. Every time I make it, I enjoy the rich taste and aroma.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Course: Soup
• Cuisine: French
• Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Oven-safe bowls or ramekins

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 4 slices French bread, toasted
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Onions

Peel and thinly slice the onions. Keep slices even so they cook evenly and caramelize perfectly.

2. Cook the Onions

Heat butter and olive oil in a large pan. Add onions, salt, and sugar. Cook on medium-low for 25 minutes.

3. Add Garlic and Herbs

Add minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir gently so flavors combine evenly.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Pour white wine into the pan. Scrape the bottom to release browned bits. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.

5. Add Broth

Add beef broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook 15 minutes to combine flavors.

6. Season the Soup

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

7. Prepare Bread

Toast French bread slices until golden brown. This prevents sogginess when added to soup.

8. Assemble Soup Bowls

Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted bread slice on top of each. Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese generously.

9. Broil Cheese

Place bowls under the broiler 2–3 minutes. Melt cheese until bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

10. Serve Hot

Remove from oven and let soup cool slightly. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten French Onion Soup

• Cook onions slowly for deep flavor.
• Use high-quality beef broth for rich taste.
• Toast bread well to prevent sogginess.
• Broil cheese carefully to get a golden crust.
• Serve immediately for best aroma and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cooking onions too fast, making them bitter.
• Skipping deglazing with wine.
• Not toasting bread before adding it to soup.
• Over-broiling cheese, which can burn.
• Forgetting to remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve French onion soup hot with a side salad for a light meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine. Fresh herbs on top enhance presentation. It works perfectly as a starter or main course for cozy dinners.

Variations You Can Try

• Use Swiss cheese instead of Gruyère.
• Make a vegetarian version with vegetable broth.
• Add a splash of sherry for extra depth.
• Top with a mix of herbs for garnish.
• Use sourdough bread instead of French bread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store soup in airtight containers for up to three days.
• Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.
• Add extra broth if soup thickens.
• Toast bread and broil cheese fresh when serving leftovers.
• Avoid freezing if topped with cheese.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	290 kcal
Protein	12 g
Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	25 g
Sodium	800 mg
Fiber	2 g

Health Benefits

French onion soup contains antioxidants from onions. Onions are good for heart health and immune support. Using broth adds protein and minerals.

Herbs like thyme contribute flavor and subtle health benefits. This soup is filling but not heavy, making it a comforting, balanced choice.

FAQs about Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, cook the soup in advance. Add bread and cheese fresh before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

What cheese works best?
Gruyère melts well and gives a nutty flavor. Swiss or mozzarella can also work as substitutes.

Why is my soup bitter?
Bitter taste comes from burning onions. Cook slowly over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to caramelize evenly.

Can I use chicken or vegetable broth instead?
Yes, you can. Chicken gives lighter flavor; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze without bread and cheese. Reheat gently, and add bread and cheese fresh before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe is rich, comforting and easy to follow. Sweet caramelized onions, savory broth and melted cheese create a classic dish.

Now you know How to make Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe at home. Keep the Ingredients for Ina Garten French Onion Soup Recipe ready and enjoy a warm, cozy and delicious meal anytime.