If you’re anything like me, the mere thought of a warm bowl of Slow Cooker French Onion Soup brings a wave of comfort and nostalgia. This classic dish is a perfect blend of sweet caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and gooey cheese, all coming together to create a hug in a bowl. The best part? You can let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you go about your day, and then enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home as you prepare for a cozy evening.
Why It Deserves a Spot
French onion soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The slow cooking process transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful dish. The caramelization of onions provides a natural sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory broth. Topped with melted provolone cheese and served with crusty bread, it’s a dish that warms both the body and soul. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, Slow Cooker French Onion Soup is sure to impress.
Ingredient List
To make this delightful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 6 cups beef broth
- 4 slices whole-wheat bread, thick
- 4 slices provolone cheese
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for a hands-off cooking experience.
- Skillet: For caramelizing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Wooden spoon: To stir and combine ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
- Soup bowls: To serve your delicious creation.
Build Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Step by Step
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the sweet and yellow onions, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions are caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the soup’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Once the onions are golden and fragrant, add the minced garlic, thyme, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Transfer the caramelized onion mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Let it Cook
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Toast the Bread
About 30 minutes before serving, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the whole-wheat bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup is finished cooking, ladle it into bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted bread and a slice of provolone cheese. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
What to Use Instead
If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, here are some alternatives:
- Olive oil: Can be substituted with vegetable oil or avocado oil.
- Provolone cheese: Try Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Beef broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version, though the flavor will differ.
- Whole-wheat bread: Any crusty bread will work, such as sourdough or a baguette.
Method to the Madness
The beauty of Slow Cooker French Onion Soup lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. The slow cooker allows the onions to caramelize beautifully, while the broth simmers for hours, enhancing the savory notes. Each step, from sautéing the onions to broiling the cheese, builds upon the last to create a bowl of soup that is nothing short of perfection.
Start by caramelizing the onions; this process is essential as it develops the soup’s base flavor. The slow cooker then does the magic of melding all the ingredients together. Finally, the addition of toasted bread and melted cheese elevates this dish to a cozy masterpiece.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is highly likely because it’s so delicious), here are some storage tips:
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze without the bread and cheese.
- Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding fresh bread and cheese as desired.
Your Top Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the beef broth with vegetable broth, and you can enjoy a flavorful vegetarian version.
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
Consider adding a splash of sherry or white wine during the cooking process for an added depth of flavor.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist.
What should I serve with French onion soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, but you can also enjoy it with a light salad or alongside dishes like Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup With Garlic Bread Croutons or Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff With Buttered Noodles.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you’re looking for more delicious meals to make during the week, check out these quick wins:
- Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup With Garlic Bread Croutons
- Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff With Buttered Noodles
- Chili: A hearty and satisfying option for chilly nights.
- Stuffed Peppers: Easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Before You Go
As you embark on your journey to create the perfect bowl of Slow Cooker French Onion Soup, remember that cooking is about enjoying the process as much as the final result. Embrace the aromas of caramelized onions and the bubbling cheese as they fill your kitchen with warmth. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also brings people together around the table, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the sweet and yellow onions, stirring occasionally. Cook until the onions are caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Once the onions are golden and fragrant, add the minced garlic, thyme, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Transfer the caramelized onion mixture to the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the whole-wheat bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- Once the soup is finished cooking, ladle it into bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted bread and a slice of provolone cheese. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months, best without bread and cheese.
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding fresh bread and cheese as desired.
