There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of French onion soup, its rich aroma wafting through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I discovered this Instant Pot variation one evening after a particularly long day; I longed for that bistro-style flair without the hours of slaving over the stove. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of an Instant Pot, I found a way to bring that cozy, indulgent soup to my dinner table in a fraction of the time.
This recipe doesn’t skimp on the essentials: sweet caramelized onions meld beautifully with hearty beef broth, all crowned with that irresistible layer of toasted baguette and melted Gruyère cheese—creating a dish that is both elegant and utterly comforting. If you’re tired of quick meals that lack flavor, this Instant Pot French Onion Soup is here to rescue your weeknight dinners. It’s the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue and a delightful way to bring homemade goodness back into your routine. Dive in with me, and let’s create a bowl that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction.
Why will you love Pot French Onion Soup?
Comforting aroma: The moment you start sautéing those onions, your kitchen will fill with a warm, inviting fragrance that beckons everyone to the table.
Quick and easy: You’ll appreciate how this recipe simplifies a beloved classic, transforming it into a fuss-free cooking experience with your Instant Pot.
Delectable richness: Caramelized onions combine with flavorful broth and melted cheese, making each bite a unique explosion of savory goodness that warms your heart.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with cheese variations or add a splash of brandy for a personal twist.
Perfect for gatherings: This dish is bound to impress guests, offering a cozy bistro vibe right at home.
Instant Pot French Onion Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Yellow Onions – Essential for sweetness and flavor; caramelizes well. Substitute with Spanish onions if needed for a similar taste.
• Beef Bone Broth – Adds body and a nutrient-rich depth of flavor to the soup; can substitute with regular beef stock but will be less rich.
• Beef Stock – Complements the bone broth for a robust flavor; use homemade or store-bought.
• Dry Red Wine – Enhances the flavor profile and adds acidity; omit for a non-alcoholic version or replace with additional stock.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; consider using a quality brand like Kerrygold for best results.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; use fresh for optimal taste.
• Fresh Thyme – Brings herby notes; can be substituted with dried thyme (use less).
• Bay Leaf – Infuses the broth with subtle flavor; remove before serving.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste.
For the Topping
• Baguette Slices – Form the crouton topping; choose a good quality baguette for texture.
• Gruyère Cheese – Offers a creamy, melty topping; freshly grated is recommended for better melting.
This Pot French Onion Soup is the cozy, rich delight your weeknight meals need!
How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Soup
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Sauté Onions: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced yellow onions, garlic, fresh thyme, and bay leaf; sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
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Deglaze the Pot: Pour in 3 tablespoons of water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom for added flavor.
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Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Once the timer goes off, perform a quick-release of the pressure, carefully removing the lid afterward.
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Caramelize Further: Switch back to sauté mode for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the soup to caramelize even more for a richer flavor.
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Add Wine: Stir in the dry red wine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it reduces and enhances the flavor of the soup.
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Combine Broths: Remove the thyme and bay leaf, then stir in the beef bone broth and beef stock. Simmer for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Season: Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
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Prepare Topping: Preheat the broiler. Broil the baguette slices until golden brown, then top them liberally with freshly grated Gruyère cheese and broil again until melted and bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each with the cheesy baguette toasts. Serve immediately and enjoy the warmth and richness!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for that extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Instant Pot French Onion Soup?
Nothing brings family and friends together like a comforting meal filled with rich flavors and heartwarming aromas.
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Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness, refreshing your palate with each bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted until caramelized, add an earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of French onion soup.
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Garlic Bread: With its crispy crust and buttery garlic flavor, garlic bread provides a delightful crunch to complement the buttery richness of the soup.
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Creamy Polenta: Silky, creamy polenta acts as a delicious vessel to soak up the hearty broth, enhancing each slurp of your warm soup.
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Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the depth of flavors in the soup while creating an elegant dining experience.
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Chocolate Soufflé: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate soufflé is the perfect ending, balancing the deep flavors of the soup with its delicate sweetness.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous with fresh herbs brings a lightness to the meal while providing additional textures and flavors to enjoy alongside the soup.
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French Fries: Crispy, golden fries add a fun element, providing a satisfying crunch that can contrast the velvety soup.
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Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses—like a tangy goat cheese or nutty Gruyère—offers a gourmet touch, showcasing complementary flavors that elevate the entire spread.
Pot French Onion Soup Variations
Customize your bowl of soup for a personal touch that tickles your taste buds!
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Sweet Onion Swap: Use sweet onions instead of yellow for a milder, sweeter flavor with every spoonful. This change brings a delightful new dimension to your beloved soup.
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Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheese like Swiss or mozzarella for a gooey topping that melts into the broth beautifully. Each cheese offers a unique taste twist to this classic.
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Brandy Boost: Add a splash of brandy or sherry in place of red wine for a aromatic depth that’s a true taste sensation. It elevates the overall flavor profile, making your soup even more luxurious.
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Vegetable Variation: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect if you want to keep things cozy without meat.
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Spicy Kick: Throw in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a mild heat that warms and elevates the overall dish, creating an unexpected layer of flavor.
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Herb Garden: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or basil alongside thyme for aromatic complexity. These additions infuse a burst of freshness while complementing the savory notes of the soup.
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Mushroom Medley: Stir in sliced mushrooms during the sauté step for added earthiness and texture. They blend seamlessly with the caramelized onions, providing an extra dimension to each bowl.
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Nutty Flavor: Top the soup with some toasted nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, for a delightful crunch and unexpected nutty flavor. This twist adds both texture and a gourmet touch to your cozy meal.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Instant Pot French Onion Soup ahead of time is a smart way to save precious moments on busy evenings! You can slice the onions and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can measure and mix the broth and seasoning components a day in advance, ensuring everything is ready to go. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the onions and follow the remaining steps as instructed. For the best quality, store the cooked soup in the fridge for 24 hours before reheating on the stove, then broil your cheesy baguette topping just before serving, so it’s fresh and delightful. This makes for a cozy meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot French Onion Soup
• Don’t Rush Sautéing: Take your time during the sauté step; it’s essential for building that deep flavor profile. Keep your heat at medium to caramelize the onions evenly.
• Watch the Broiler: When broiling your cheesy baguette, stay close and keep the oven door slightly ajar. This helps prevent burning while ensuring a perfect golden crust.
• Remove Aromatics: Always remember to take out the thyme and bay leaf before serving the soup. They can leave a bitter taste if eaten, and you want to maintain the elegance of this comforting dish.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using freshly grated Gruyère cheese is key for that melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents which hamper melting.
• Season to Taste: Flavors develop during cooking, so always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end. Each broth has different sodium levels, making this step essential for the best Pot French Onion Soup.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot French Onion Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating for the best quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much during storage.
Serving: Top with fresh Gruyère cheese after reheating for that delightful melty experience—just like when you first made your Instant Pot French Onion Soup!
Instant Pot French Onion Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of onions should I use for French onion soup?
I recommend using yellow onions for their sweetness and excellent caramelization. However, Spanish onions will also work well if you prefer a milder flavor.
How should I store Instant Pot French Onion Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this French onion soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat on the stove.
What if my soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, don’t panic! You can balance it by adding a peeled raw potato to the pot while simmering. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, then remove it. The potato will absorb some saltiness without altering the flavor significantly.
Can I use alternative broths if I don’t have beef broth?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth. Keep in mind, the flavor will be different, but it will still yield a delicious soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make an incredible vegetarian version by using a quality vegetable broth and omitting the beef stocks. You can enhance the flavor even more by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for depth.
Instant Pot French Onion Soup for Cozy, Flavorful Nights
Equipment
- - Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 medium Yellow Onions Substitute with Spanish onions if needed.
- 4 cups Beef Bone Broth Can substitute with regular beef stock.
- 2 cups Beef Stock Use homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup Dry Red Wine Omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Consider using a quality brand like Kerrygold.
- 4 cloves Garlic Use fresh for optimal taste.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Can be substituted with dried thyme.
- 1 leaf Bay Leaf Remove before serving.
- to taste Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
- to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Topping
- 4 slices Baguette Choose a good quality baguette for texture.
- 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Freshly grated is recommended.
Instructions
How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Soup
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced yellow onions, garlic, fresh thyme, and bay leaf; sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- Pour in 3 tablespoons of water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom for added flavor.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Once the timer goes off, perform a quick-release of the pressure, carefully removing the lid afterward.
- Switch back to sauté mode for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the soup to caramelize even more for a richer flavor.
- Stir in the dry red wine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it reduces and enhances the flavor of the soup.
- Remove the thyme and bay leaf, then stir in the beef bone broth and beef stock. Simmer for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
- Preheat the broiler. Broil the baguette slices until golden brown, then top them liberally with freshly grated Gruyère cheese and broil again until melted and bubbly.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, topping each with the cheesy baguette toasts. Serve immediately and enjoy the warmth and richness!