Classic French Onion Soup Gratinée

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic French Onion Soup Gratinée.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious French Onion Soup Gratinée, grab a large pot and melt some butter over medium-high heat.

2. Step 2

   Once the butter is bubbling, toss in your sliced red and sweet onions along with a sprinkle of salt.

3. Step 3

   Stir them frequently as they cook, allowing them to caramelize and become beautifully syrupy—this should take about 35 minutes, and the aroma will be irresistible! Next, pour in the chicken broth, beef broth, red wine, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

4. Step 4

   To infuse the soup with fresh flavors, bundle up some parsley, thyme, and a bay leaf using kitchen twine, and add this herb bundle to the pot.

5. Step 5

   Let everything simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep the flavors mingling.

6. Step 6

   Once the time is up, remove the herb bundle and discard it.

7. Step 7

   Lower the heat and stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar, seasoning the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

8. Step 8

   Keep the soup warm over low heat while you prepare the toast.

9. Step 9

   Now, let’s get that bread nice and toasty! Position your oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler.

10. Step 10

    Arrange slices of French bread on a baking sheet and broil them, turning once, until both sides are golden and crispy—this should take around 3 minutes.

11. Step 11

    Once toasted, take them out of the oven but keep the broiler on for the next step.

12. Step 12

    For the grand assembly, place four large oven-safe bowls or crocks on a rimmed baking sheet.

13. Step 13

    Fill each bowl about two-thirds full with your hot, fragrant soup.

14. Step 14

    Top each bowl with a slice of your perfectly toasted bread, then layer on two slices of Gruyère cheese and a quarter of the Asiago cheese.

15. Step 15

    To add a little flair, sprinkle a pinch of paprika over each bowl for a pop of color and flavor.

16. Step 16

    Now, it’s time to broil these beauties! Slide the baking sheet into the oven and broil the bowls until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—this should take about 5 minutes.

17. Step 17

    Watch as the cheese melts and cascades over the sides, creating a delightful crusty seal that’s simply irresistible.

18. Step 18

    Serve your comforting French Onion Soup Gratinée hot, and enjoy every spoonful of this cozy dish that warms both the heart and the soul!.