Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Longhorn French Onion Soup is a rich and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory depth of beef broth. Topped with a golden, melted layer of cheese and a crunchy baguette slice, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings or as a starter to a hearty meal. Its layers of flavor make it a timeless classic that you’ll crave again and again.
ingredients
unsalted butter
yellow onions
beef broth
white wine
garlic
bay leaves
thyme
salt and pepper
French baguette
Gruyère cheese
Parmesan cheese
directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and stir to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- While the soup simmers, preheat your broiler. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and toast them lightly.
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup and ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl, then sprinkle generously with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
- Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown color.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
- Swap the Gruyère for Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.
- Add a splash of brandy or sherry to the broth for added depth.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter version of the soup.
storage/reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best results, broil the cheese just before serving.

FAQs
What makes Longhorn French Onion Soup different from other French onion soups?
Longhorn French Onion Soup is known for its deep, rich flavor, thanks to the combination of caramelized onions and savory beef broth, topped with a generous layer of melted cheese.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like Swiss or even mozzarella, though Gruyère is traditional for this dish.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the bread and cheese topping. Store it in the fridge, then add the bread and cheese just before broiling.
Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup (without the bread and cheese) for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before adding the toppings.
Is French Onion Soup very rich?
Yes, it’s a hearty and rich soup, thanks to the caramelized onions and cheese. It’s perfect for a filling meal on a cold day.
Conclusion
Longhorn French Onion Soup offers the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a classic favorite. Its savory, sweet, and cheesy components combine to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as part of a cozy dinner, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser.
PrintLonghorn French Onion Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop, Broil
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and savory French onion soup, inspired by the popular Longhorn Steakhouse recipe, featuring caramelized onions, a flavorful broth, and topped with melted cheese and toasted bread.
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices French baguette
- 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 30 minutes.
- Add sugar, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the onions, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the white wine and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- While the soup simmers, toast the baguette slices in the oven until golden and crisp.
- Preheat the broiler to high. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl of soup.
- Top the bread with shredded Gruyère and Swiss cheeses.
- Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the soup from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of beef and chicken broth.
- Make sure the bread is fully toasted before broiling to prevent it from becoming soggy in the soup.
- You can make the soup ahead of time and reheat before adding the cheese and broiling.