Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsColumbus InnClassic French Onion Soup Recipe

Classic French Onion Soup Recipe

Inspired by Columbus Inn
Time1h 15m
Serves4

rich onion broth, french bread, gruyere

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Ingredients

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Broth Base

Method

Soup Preparation

  1. 1

    Sauté the Onions

    In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. They should turn a deep golden brown.

  2. 2

    Add Garlic and Deglaze

    Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the dry white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. Allow the wine to reduce for about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add Broth and Seasonings

    Pour in the beef broth, add the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Preparation

  1. 4

    Prepare the Bread

    While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of French bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 5

    Assemble and Broil

    Remove the bay leaves from the soup. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a slice of toasted French bread, and generously sprinkle with shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

  3. 6

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove the bowls from the oven carefully. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

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