Mouth-Watering Southern French Onion Soup Recipe

Southern-style cuisine is a bit of a comfort food, and nothing says comfort like a delicious bowl of soup. I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Southern Style French Onion Soup – a classic dish that’ll warm your heart and soul. This soup has all the tasty ingredients you’d expect from traditional French onion soup with the addition of southern flair, bringing balance and amazing flavor to an already flavorful meal.

The melted cheese topping, crusty bread, and deep savory broth make this dish perfect for any occasion. It’s heavenly on rainy days or soothing after a long day at work – just one spoonful, and you are guaranteed a little slice of heaven.

Made with sweet, caramelized onions slow-cooked in unsalted butter along with fresh thyme, bay leaves, and beef consomme stock, this onion soup is sure to impress anyone who tries it. I suggest taking things up a notch by pairing it with a glass of red wine or pairing it with casserole recipes—this soup is the perfect complement to any rich main course.

Best of all, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, so even if you lack cooking expertise in the kitchen, don’t shy away from trying your hands on this amazing recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, comforting soup that is perfect for chilly evenings? Then look no further than this Southern Style French Onion Soup recipe! This soup is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with tender onions slow cooked to perfection in a rich beef broth.

Not only is this soup delicious, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a starter for an elegant dinner party, or enjoy a bowl on its own for a cozy night in. And speaking of cozy, there’s nothing better than a steaming bowl of French onion soup on a cool, fall day.

This recipe also has the added bonus of being relatively easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients like onions, beef broth, and butter, you can whip up something that looks like it came from a fancy restaurant kitchen. The prep work doesn’t take too long either…just slicing some onions and letting them cook until they are tender and caramelized.

Overall, if you’re looking for a delicious and comforting soup that is easy to prepare and will impress your guests – or just yourself – this Southern Style French Onion Soup recipe is definitely worth trying! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Ingredient List

Here are all the ingredients you will need to prepare this delectable southern-style French Onion Soup recipe!

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 pounds yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• 1 onion, chopped
• 6 cups beef broth (or substitute with Chicken broth)
• 2 cups water (or substitute with more beef broth)
• ½ cup white wine (or omit entirely)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Baguette or another crusty bread, sliced (for serving)
• Parmesan cheese and green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Most of these ingredients are basic pantry staples that you will most likely have on hand in your kitchen. However, if you need to make a substitution, be sure to read the suggested alternatives under each ingredient description in the “Substitutions and Variations” section below.

The Recipe How-To

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let’s start cooking the #southernstyle French Onion Soup!

Step 1: Slice and Caramelize the Onions

Begin by slicing 2 pounds of yellow onions (around 4 large onions). Cut the onions in half lengthwise then slice them into thin half-moon shapes.

Over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot. Once butter has melted, add sliced onions to the pot and stir occasionally for about 20-30 minutes or until they are soft and nicely browned.

Keep stirring frequently during the first few minutes to prevent the onions from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The caramelization process will deepen the flavor of the soup.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

After the onions are caramelized, add 1 cup of white wine to deglaze the pot. Make sure to scrape all the brown bits off the bottom of your pot since that’s where most of your flavors come from!

Then, add 6 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 2 cups of water. You can adjust the ratio based on your preference, but I find this mix gives a nice balance between sweet and savory flavors.

Throw in a couple of bay leaves as well as a pinch of both freshly ground black pepper, and 5 teaspoons dried thymeto complement the onion sweetness.

Let it simmer for another 30 minutes or until you see consistent bubbling around your pan lid.

Step 3: Broil those Cheesy-Sweet Goodness

Prepare your oven-safe bowls (you can use a crockpot) and top them with sliced French bread or baguette per serving size. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, Gruyere cheese, or any melting cheese of your liking.

To ensure the cheese gets perfectly melted and golden brown, transfer your bowls into your oven preheated at 375°F and broil for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Enjoy Your French Onion Soup!

It’s ready! Remove them from the oven (careful, it may be hot!) and let it cool down for just a bit before you start savoring the cheesy-sweet goodness of your southern-style, traditional French Onion Soup!

Substitutions and Variations

Are you looking to switch up this southern-style French Onion Soup recipe with some delicious substitutes? Here are some ideas that will take this soup to the next level.

Firstly, if you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly option, you can easily substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth to maintain the same savory taste. If you prefer the richness of beef broth, try using a combination of chicken and beef broth instead.

For those who love a little kick in their soup, consider adding diced jalapenos or hot sauce into the mix. This will add a spicy component that will perfectly offset the sweet caramelized onions.

If you’re looking for a cheesy twist on this classic dish, swap out traditional Swiss cheese for mozzarella, Gruyere or parmesan cheese for a new flavor profile. Alternatively, try sprinkling on some shredded cheddar for that extra layer of creamy goodness.

Lastly, feel free to get creative with your toppings! Toss on some fresh green onions or red onions as an added garnish. You can also experiment with different croutons (such as garlic or herb-flavored ones) to give your soup an extra burst of flavor.

Mix and match these substitutions and variations to create your very own perfect bowl of southern-style French Onion Soup.

Serving and Pairing

The best thing about this Southern Style French Onion Soup is that it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with different sides and drinks. You can serve it as an appetizer or even as a main course if you add some bread or croutons to it.

One classic way to serve French onion soup is to top it with a slice of French bread and sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top, then broil it until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gives the soup an extra crunch and richness.

Cheese lovers will enjoy pairing this soup with some gooey, melted gruyere or mozzarella cheese, which complement the savory broth perfectly. You can either add the cheese directly into the soup or serve it as a side dish to dip into the soup.

A good wine pairing for Southern Style French Onion Soup is a red wine such as Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon, which have complex flavors and aromas that blend well with the rich flavors of the broth. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a robust coffee or tea would also make a great accompaniment.

When it comes to side dishes, green salads are excellent choices to balance out the hearty flavors of the soup. For those who crave something more substantial, crusty bread or garlic bread complements the soup perfectly.

Overall, serving and pairing this Southern Style French Onion Soup is an easy task that provides numerous options for experimentation and adaptation. With any combination of toppings, drinks or sides you choose, this delicious recipe continues to be a standout favorite in any menu.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

When it comes to soups, making them in advance can be incredibly convenient. This Southern Style French Onion Soup recipe is no exception. If you’re looking to save time and prep ahead, this soup can easily be made in advance and stored for later.

To prepare this soup ahead of time, you can make the entire recipe as directed and then let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When you’re ready to serve the soup, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat until it’s warmed through. If the soup has become too thick while in the fridge, you can add additional chicken or beef broth as needed to thin it out.

Additionally, if you have leftovers after serving, this soup stores incredibly well in the freezer. Transfer any remaining soup to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months.

When reheating from frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove over medium-low heat until warmed through.

It’s important to note that due to the ingredients in this recipe, you may notice some separation when reheating. This is completely normal and won’t affect the flavor of the soup. Simply stir gently before serving.

Overall, this Southern Style French Onion Soup is an excellent choice for those who like to meal prep or want a hearty soup readily available for busy weeknights.

Tips for Perfect Results

Are you ready to impress your friends and family with your Southern Style French Onion Soup? Here are some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

1. Use a combination of onion varieties

While the recipe calls for yellow onions, consider mixing it up with sweet onions or green onion tops. The variation in texture and flavor will deepen the complexity of the soup.

2. Slow cook those onions

The secret to achieving rich and caramelized onions is to cook them low and slow. Resist the urge to crank up the heat, and let the onions sauté until soft and beginning to caramelize before adding other ingredients.

3. Beef or chicken broth?

Traditionally, French onion soup is made with beef broth, but chicken broth also works well in this Southern variation. Experiment with both broth varieties to find your preference.

4. Don’t skimp on the cheese

The cheese is what takes this soup to new heights of flavor. While gruyere cheese is a classic option, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as parmesan or mozzarella.

5. Wine not?

Adding a bit of white wine to the soup can add depth and complexity while cutting through the richness of the cheese.

Remember, a successful recipe requires you to make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and flavors until you find what works best for you.

FAQ

As you embark on your journey to cook this delicious Southern Style French Onion Soup recipe, you may have some lingering questions or concerns. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that may come up while making this mouth-watering dish. So, keep reading to ensure that your cooking experience goes seamlessly, without any hiccups.

How do you deepen the flavor of French onion soup?

Want to give your chicken broth a little more depth of flavor? Consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to your soup. Another trick to speed up the caramelization process of onions is to sprinkle a bit of sugar on them as they cook.

What is the difference between onion soup and French onion soup?

When comparing onion soup and French onion soup, there are some notable differences. While onion soup often uses a mix of onion types, French onion soup typically relies solely on yellow onions. Additionally, French onion soup is exclusively made with beef stock, while onion soup may use a variety of stocks or broths.

What is Julia Child’s recipe for French onion soup?

To make a delicious soup with a southern-style twist, we will need some key ingredients. Start off with 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of light olive oil or fresh peanut oil in a large pot. Add in 2 and a half pounds (8 cups) of thinly sliced onions, and sprinkle in half a teaspoon of salt and sugar – the sugar will help the onions to brown nicely.

Next, add 2 tablespoons of flour and mix it thoroughly. Then, pour in 2 and a half quarts of beef stock, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 40 minutes.

When that’s done, the next step is to add brandy. Pour 4 to 5 tablespoons of Cognac, Armagnac or any other good brandy into the soup pot, and let it simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, add 1 cup of dry white French vermouth and let it cook for another minute or two.

This soup can be served hot, with a side of crusty bread or croutons. It’s perfect for chilly winter evenings or when you need some comfort food. So, gather your ingredients and give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!

What broth is French onion soup made of?

When preparing this soup, it is customary to use beef stock, but this can prove quite expensive and inconvenient to make from scratch. If you choose to use pre-made stock, be sure to give it a taste test first. If it doesn’t meet your standards, it’s best to avoid it altogether. Alternatively, if you frequently cook beef or roasts, you can save the leftover scraps in your freezer and use them to make your own stock at a later time.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that is packed with flavor and reminiscent of your Southern roots, look no further than this Southern Style French Onion Soup Recipe. This dish has all the makings of a classic French onion soup, but with just the right amount of Southern charm.

With the right quality ingredients, you can create a soup that is perfect for any occasion – from family dinners to cozy nights in with your loved ones. Whether you’re pairing it with a crusty baguette or enjoying it alone, this soup is sure to satisfy and leave you feeling warm and satiated.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and get ready to whip up this delicious dish that will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Take pride in your Southern roots by putting your own spin on this classic recipe and making it uniquely yours. You won’t regret taking the time to create something special that will bring warmth and memories to your table for years to come.

Recommended Recipes Just For You

None found