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.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
Prepare the Onions
- Peel and thinly slice the onions. Keep slices even so they cook evenly and caramelize perfectly.
Cook the Onions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pan. Add onions, salt, and sugar. Cook on medium-low for 25 minutes.
Add Garlic and Herbs
- Add minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir gently so flavors combine evenly.
Deglaze with Wine
- Pour white wine into the pan. Scrape the bottom to release browned bits. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
Add Broth
- Add beef broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook 15 minutes to combine flavors.
Season the Soup
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Prepare Bread
- Toast French bread slices until golden brown. This prevents sogginess when added to soup.
Assemble Soup Bowls
- Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted bread slice on top of each. Sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese generously.
Broil Cheese
- Place bowls under the broiler 2–3 minutes. Melt cheese until bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Serve Hot
- Remove from oven and let soup cool slightly. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- 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.