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Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro Soup

Published on July 29, 2026
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Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro Soup
Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 21 mins
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Servings

Peel and thinly slice the onions evenly using a sharp knife or mandoline. Consistent slices help the onions caramelize at the same rate.

Ingredients

  • Yellow Onions5 large (about 3 lbs)
  • thinly slicedFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupUnsalted Butter4 tbspFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupExtra Virgin Olive Oil2 tbspFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupGarlic4 cloves
  • mincedFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupDry White Wine1 cupFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupBeef Broth6 cupsFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupFresh Thyme6 sprigsFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupBay Leaves2From: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupWorcestershire Sauce1 tbspFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupBalsamic Vinegar1 tbspFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupFrench Baguette1 loaf
  • sliced into 1-inch piecesFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupGruyère Cheese3 cups
  • freshly shreddedFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupParmigiano-Reggiano1/2 cup
  • freshly gratedFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupFine Sea Salt2 tspFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro SoupFreshly Ground Black Pepper1 tspFrom: Parisian Golden Onion French Bistro Soup

Instructions

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  6. 1228);">Chef's TipAvoid slicing onions too thin, as they can burn before developing their deep caramelized flavor.2Begin CaramelizingHeat butter and olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and release moisture.3Deeply Caramelize the OnionsReduce heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 45 to 55 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the onions become deeply golden brown and jammy. Add small splashes of water if the onions begin sticking.
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  12. 1228);">Chef's TipGreat French onion soup depends on patience. Slow caramelization creates the natural sweetness and rich flavor of the dish.4Add Garlic and DeglazeAdd the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release the flavorful caramelized bits. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly reduced.5Build the Soup BaseAdd the beef broth, thyme sprigs, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
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  18. 1228);">Chef's TipA small amount of balsamic vinegar enhances the onions' sweetness and adds complexity without making the soup taste acidic.6Prepare the BreadWhile the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 8 to 10 minutes until crisp and golden.7Prepare the Cheese ToppingCombine the shredded Gruyère and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Set aside for assembling the soup.8Assemble the BowlsRemove the thyme stems and bay leaves from the soup. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place toasted baguette slices on top and generously cover with the cheese mixture.
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  24. 1228);">Chef's TipUsing oven-safe bowls allows the cheese to melt directly over the soup for the classic bistro presentation.9Broil Until GoldenPlace the bowls under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and beautifully browned. Watch carefully to avoid burning.10Serve and StoreServe immediately while the cheese is hot and stretchy. Store leftover soup without the bread and cheese topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop and prepare fresh cheesy toast before serving.
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  30. 1228);">Chef's TipFrench onion soup often tastes even better the next day because the caramelized onion flavors continue to develop.

Recipe Stats

  • Jul 29, 2026
  • Prep: 15 mins
  • Cook: 21 mins
  • Servings: 4 Servings
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