Name: Comforting Pot French Onion Soup Just Like You'd Find in Paris
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 medium Yellow Onions (sliced to 1/4-inch thickness); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (opt for high-quality butter); 4 cloves Garlic (minced); 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme (for easy removal later); 1 leaf Bay Leaf (remove before serving); 4 cups Beef Bone Broth; 2 cups Beef Stock; 1 cup Dry Red Wine (choose a dry variety); to taste Kosher Salt (adjust according to taste); to taste Ground Black Pepper (adjust according to taste); 4 slices Baguette (toast until golden); 2 cups Gruyère Cheese (freshly grated)

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There’s nothing quite like the embrace of a warm bowl of Instant Pot French Onion Soup on a chilly evening. Picture this: the sweet scent of caramelizing onions fills your kitchen, enticing you to gather around the table. This dish isn’t just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl that combines the rich, savory flavors of onions steeped in hearty beef broth, enriched by a splash of red wine.

What makes this recipe a true standout is how effortlessly it transforms your dining experience, bringing that cozy bistro vibe right into your home without requiring hours of your time. Topped with gooey, melted Gruyère cheese and crunchy toasted baguette slices, this soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth. With the Instant Pot, you can savor gourmet goodness in under an hour, making it a perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this heartwarming culinary adventure!

Why is Pot French Onion Soup so special?

Comforting warmth fills your soul as this dish envelopes you in its soothing embrace. Effortless preparation makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without the hassle. Savory richness of caramelized onions in a hearty broth, paired with ooey-gooey cheese and crusty toasts, creates a divine taste experience. Gourmet dining is now achievable at home, transforming your table into a cozy bistro scene. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen!

Pot French Onion Soup Ingredients

• For the ultimate cozy bowl of comfort.

For the Soup

Yellow Onions – Essential for sweetness and flavor after caramelization; slice them to about 1/4-inch thickness for best results.
Unsalted Butter – Adds a rich, velvety base; opt for a high-quality butter for heightened flavor.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic brings a delightful aromatic depth; it’s a must for that bistro-quality experience.
Fresh Thyme – Infuses the soup with herby goodness; use sprigs for easy removal later.
Bay Leaf – Adds a whisper of smokiness; be sure to take it out before serving.
Beef Bone Broth and Beef Stock – These create a hearty, savory foundation; the combination enriches the flavor profile.
Dry Red Wine – Enhances the soup’s complexity; choose a dry wine for balanced flavors.
Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Crucial for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Topping

Baguette Slices – Serve as crouton toppings; toast until golden for that crunchy finish.
Gruyère Cheese – Essential for that gooey, melty topping; freshly grated is the way to go for perfect texture.

How to Make Pot French Onion Soup

Sauté Onions: Turn your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the unsalted butter and add sliced yellow onions along with minced garlic, fresh thyme, and a bay leaf. Sauté for about 5 minutes until onions soften.
Deglaze Pot: Add 3 tablespoons of water to deglaze the pot. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom, which will enhance your soup’s flavor.
Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, quick-release the pressure and remove the lid. Switch back to sauté mode and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Add Wine: Pour in the dry red wine and simmer for about 10 minutes. This step helps reduce the wine and concentrate its flavors.
Combine Broth and Simmer: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Next, pour in the beef bone broth and beef stock. Allow it to simmer on sauté for another 10 minutes.
Season: Taste your soup and season with kosher salt and ground black pepper as needed. Adjust to your liking!
Prepare the Topping: Preheat your broiler. Toast baguette slices until golden brown, then top with freshly grated Gruyère cheese. Broil for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Ladle your steaming hot soup into bowls and top with the cheesy baguette toasts for that wonderful finishing touch.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot French Onion Soup options are perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a comforting meal without the last-minute rush! You can prep the soup base—sautéing the onions, garlic, thyme, and adding the broth and wine—up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer the mixture back to your Instant Pot, heat it on sauté mode for 10 minutes, and follow the final steps to toast the baguette and melt the Gruyère. This allows you to savor the rich flavors of your homemade soup on a busy night with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Pot French Onion Soup

Perfect Sauté: Don’t rush the onions! Cooking them slowly develops their natural sweetness, essential for a rich flavor in your Pot French Onion Soup.
Cheese Melting: Keep an eye on your Gruyère under the broiler. The oven can quickly turn golden to burnt; leave the door slightly ajar for easier monitoring.
Flavorful Broth: For a richer taste, use a mixture of beef bone broth and beef stock. This combination deepens the savory notes of your soup.
Onion Type: While yellow onions are preferred, for a sweeter twist, try Vidalia onions. Just adjust sugar levels based on your taste preference.
Stay Organized: Always remember to remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving to prevent any unpleasant bites, keeping the focus on the delicious flavors of your Pot French Onion Soup.
Herb Finish: Sprinkle fresh herbs or a light drizzle of olive oil just before serving for an extra pop of flavor and a touch of color in your presentation.

Pot French Onion Soup Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your comforting bowl of soup to new heights!

Sweet Onion Swap: Use Vidalia or other sweet onions for an added layer of sweetness; adjust sugar to taste.
Cheese Alternatives: If Gruyère isn’t on hand, try Swiss or mozzarella for a different melting experience; each brings its unique character.
Herby Upgrade: Add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or oregano in addition to thyme for a more complex flavor profile.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or sautéed leeks for an earthy depth; they’ll complement the onions beautifully!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or sauté some diced jalapeños with the onions for a warm, spicy kick.
Wine-Free Option: Substitute the wine with balsamic vinegar for a further depth that still maintains the tanginess; keep an eye on the acidity!
Vegan Variation: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and use olive oil instead of butter for a hearty vegan-friendly soup.
Creamy Twist: For a richer finish, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving; it gives an indulgent touch.

How to Store and Freeze Pot French Onion Soup

Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It’s great for lunch the next day and even tastes better after the flavors meld overnight!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, then top with toasted baguette and cheese before serving.

Labeling: Always label your containers with the date so you can enjoy your comforting Pot French Onion Soup at its best!

What to Serve with Instant Pot French Onion Soup?

Imagine cozying up with a heartfelt meal that warms your soul with every bite, complemented perfectly by delightful sides.

Arugula Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is an irresistible option that echoes the toasted baguette in the soup while enhancing the overall garlic goodness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies bring out earthy flavors that align superbly with the savory notes of the French onion soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
White Wine: A chilled glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the strong flavors of the soup, enhancing the experience with a refreshing sip.
Cheesy Gratin Potatoes: Creamy, cheesy potatoes contribute a luscious texture that perfectly complements the hearty soup, turning dinner into a comforting feast.
Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley over the soup and sides adds a pop of color and a delightful aroma that ties all the flavors together.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and velvety chocolate mousse offers a sweet finale that feels indulgent yet delicate after such a rich entrée.

Instant Pot French Onion Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of onions should I use for French onion soup?
I recommend using yellow onions, as they provide the sweetness and rich flavor essential for this dish. Avoid white onions because they can be sharper and less sweet when caramelized. Aim to slice them into 1/4-inch pieces for optimal cooking.

How long can I store leftover French onion soup in the fridge?
You can store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

Can I freeze Instant Pot French onion soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as soups expand when frozen. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Why did my soup turn out too salty?
If your soup becomes too salty, it could be due to the broth or stock you used. To balance the flavors, add a small peeled potato to the pot while cooking; it will absorb some saltiness. Alternatively, you can dilute the soup with a bit of water or low-sodium broth, adjusting the seasoning afterward.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
While traditional French onion soup uses beef broth, you can easily make a vegetarian version by replacing the beef broth and stock with vegetable broth. Just be sure to check that your cheese is rennet-free if you want to keep it vegetarian!

Can I use different cheese for the topping?
Yes, you can substitute Gruyère cheese with other varieties like Swiss or mozzarella if needed. However, Gruyère is recommended for its excellent melting properties and rich flavor, making it the star of the dish.