Famous Barr French Onion Soup Recipe Made Easy

French onion soup is a timeless classic that warms the soul and delights the palate with its rich, savory flavors and comforting textures. The Famous Barr French Onion Soup recipe elevates this beloved dish to new heights with a perfect balance of caramelized onions, robust beef broth, and a golden, bubbling cheese topping.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or an impressive starter for a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. The deep, complex flavors develop slowly but are well worth the wait, making every spoonful a delicious experience.

Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort that embodies the heart of French cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French onion soup recipe is a celebration of traditional French cooking techniques combined with a few special touches from the Famous Barr kitchen. The secret lies in the slow caramelization of sweet onions, which creates a deep, golden base bursting with natural sweetness.

Paired with a savory homemade beef broth and a generous topping of toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese, this soup is both hearty and elegant.

It’s perfect for making ahead and easily reheated, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (helps with caramelization)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth (preferably homemade or low sodium)
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Baguette slices, about 12, toasted
• 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven-safe soup bowls or crocks
• Baking sheet (for toasting bread)
• Grater for cheese
• Ladle

Instructions

1. Prepare the onions: Peel and thinly slice the yellow onions into half-moons. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform slices.
2. Caramelize the onions: In your large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. This process should take about 40-50 minutes until the onions turn a deep golden brown and are soft and sweet. Patience is key here; do not rush this step.
3. Add garlic and flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If you prefer a slightly thicker broth, sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring well for 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flavor.
4. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any stuck-on bits. Let the wine reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
5. Add broth and herbs: Pour in the beef broth, add bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.
6. Prepare the bread and cheese: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. Grate the Gruyère cheese.
7. Assemble and broil: Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place 2-3 toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl and generously sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve immediately: Carefully remove from the oven (the bowls will be hot!) and serve your classic French onion soup piping hot.

Tips & Variations

“Slow and steady wins the caramelization race.” Take your time cooking the onions to develop the best flavor.

• Vegetarian version: Substitute beef broth with rich vegetable broth and omit the wine for a lighter flavor.
• Cheese options: If Gruyère isn’t available, Swiss or mozzarella work well too.
• Add a splash of sherry: For extra depth, add 1-2 tablespoons of sherry after deglazing with wine.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread for toasting and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
• Make ahead: Prepare soup base a day in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat before adding bread and cheese topping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

French onion soup shines as a standalone dish, especially on chilly days when comfort food is a must. However, pairing it with a crisp green salad lightly dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.

You can also serve it alongside a crusty baguette or a simple roasted vegetable platter for a well-rounded meal.

For a more indulgent spread, try serving this soup as a starter followed by classic French dishes like coq au vin or beef bourguignon. Don’t forget a glass of your favorite dry white wine or a light red to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

The Famous Barr French Onion Soup recipe is a delightful homage to one of France’s most cherished dishes. Its rich, caramelized onions and savory broth combined with bubbling cheese and toasted bread create a dish that is both elegant and comforting.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this soup is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

By following the simple steps and tips provided, you can master the art of French onion soup right in your own kitchen. It’s a perfect recipe to make ahead, enjoy any day of the week, and share with loved ones.

We hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your table as it has to countless others.

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