If there’s one dish that combines comfort, elegance, and incredible flavor, it’s Crockpot French Onion Soup. I recently made a batch, and I couldn’t believe how deeply flavorful and satisfying it turned out.
The best part? It was so easy to prepare, thanks to my trusty slow cooker. This soup is rich with caramelized onions in a savory broth, topped with gooey, bubbly cheese and crusty bread. Each bite is pure bliss, and I’m excited to share everything you need to know to make this recipe perfectly at home!
Credit: allrecipes
Ingredients
Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make this comforting Crockpot French Onion Soup. I’ve also included a few tips to help you get the best results.
- 3 large white onions, sliced thinly – White onions caramelize beautifully and add just the right sweetness without overpowering the soup.
- 3 tablespoons butter – Softens the onions and creates a rich base. Avoid using margarine as it lacks the same depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Helps the onions caramelize faster. Use sparingly for the perfect balance.
- 64 ounces reduced-sodium beef broth – Provides the rich, savory base. Reduced sodium lets you control the salt better.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and enhances the flavor of the broth.
- 1 garlic clove, minced – Gives a nice aromatic kick to the soup.
- ⅓ cup dry sherry – Adds a subtle, nutty flavor. You can replace this with a splash of white wine if needed.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) – Adds herby, earthy notes.
- 1 bay leaf – For added depth and complexity in the broth.
- 8 slices French bread – Slightly stale or crusty bread works best so it holds up under all that cheese and broth.
- ¾ cup shredded Gruyere cheese – Melts into a creamy topping with a nutty flavor.
- ½ cup shredded Emmental cheese – Adds texture and a bit of tang. Sub with Swiss cheese if needed.
- 6 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese – For that golden brown, bubbly crust.
Note: This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Feel free to reduce or double the ingredients based on your needs.
Variations
Looking for ways to customize this soup? Here are some easy variations to try:
- Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan cheese substitute.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread slices for the topping.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef broth with a hearty vegetable broth.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
If you enjoy globally inspired twists, you might like our flavorful Thai Curry Soup for a little extra heat and spice.
Cooking Time
Here’s a quick breakdown of the time you’ll need:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours and 20 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish effortlessly:
- 6-Quart Slow Cooker – For low, slow cooking that develops those rich flavors.
- Large Non-Stick Pan – Perfect for caramelizing onions evenly.
- Wooden Spoon – Helps stir the onions without burning them.
- Baking Tray – For toasting the bread slices.
- Broiler (or Oven) – To melt the cheese topping until bubbly.
How to Make Crockpot French Onion Soup?
Making this soup is easier than you might think! Just follow my step-by-step process for amazing results.
Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating the butter in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with the brown sugar. Stir occasionally, letting the onions cook low and slow for about 20 minutes until they’re golden and caramelized. This step is key for building the soup’s signature flavor, so take your time!
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the caramelized onions into your slow cooker. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, dry sherry, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours. This long simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Prepare the Bread
While the soup simmers, slice the French bread into thick pieces. Toast them in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes until they’re dry and slightly crisp. This helps the bread hold up when you layer it on top of the soup.
Add the Toppings
Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or mugs. Place a slice of toasted bread over the soup in each bowl, then top generously with the shredded Gruyere, Emmental, and Parmesan cheeses.
Broil and Serve
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Credit: wellplated
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
Here are a few tips I’ve picked up from making this recipe to ensure it turns out amazing every time:
- Use fresh, high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and texture. Pre-shredded cheese often lacks meltability.
- If your onions seem watery, cook them a bit longer to fully caramelize them. This step is crucial for a rich soup.
- Don’t skip toasting the bread! It prevents it from becoming soggy too quickly under the cheese.
- If the soup isn’t as rich as you’d like, add a teaspoon of soy sauce or a splash more sherry.
How to Serve Crockpot French Onion Soup?
For a restaurant-worthy presentation, garnish the bubbling cheese with a tiny sprig of fresh thyme before serving. Pair the soup with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complement its richness. A side of extra toasted bread is always a crowd-pleaser! You can also enjoy similar cozy dishes like Tuscan White Bean Soup if you’re in the mood for something wholesome and satisfying.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the basic nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 367
- Protein: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fat: 12g
Make Ahead and Storage
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Ladle the soup (without bread or cheese) into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This soup offers so much to love! Here are just a few reasons why it’s a must-try:
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you with plenty of free time.
- Rich, Deep Flavor: The caramelized onions and long simmering time create a beautifully complex broth.
- Customizable Options: Easily adapt the recipe for dietary needs or personal tastes.
- Restaurant-Quality Results: The gooey, cheesy topping and savory soup are guaranteed to impress.
- Perfect for Winter Nights: Warm, filling, and comforting, this soup is ideal for chilly evenings.
Crockpot French Onion Soup is truly a dish that anyone can master, and the results are absolutely worth it. Whether you make it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, you’ll love every bite of this comforting classic!
And if you’re looking to expand your meal rotation, you might find more inspiration in our go-to Dinner Ideas to keep things fresh and flavorful all week long.