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Cozy Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Recipe with Melted Gruyère Cheese

slow cooker French onion soup - featured image

A comforting slow cooker French onion soup featuring caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and melted Gruyère cheese on toasted baguette slices. Perfect for cozy nights and easy entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth (1.4 liters)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, 120 ml)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 French baguette, sliced
  • 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded (200 g)

Instructions

  1. Peel and thinly slice 4 large yellow onions (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tbsp unsalted butter with 1 tbsp olive oil. Add sliced onions and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until they start to soften and turn golden. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. Transfer the softened onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in 6 cups beef broth and 1/2 cup dry white wine if using. Add 1 tsp dried thyme and 2 bay leaves. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. Stir gently halfway through cooking.
  5. About 15 minutes before serving, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet. Toast for 10 minutes until crispy and golden.
  6. Remove bay leaves from the soup. Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place toasted baguette slices on top, then sprinkle with about 1/4 cup (25 g) shredded Gruyère cheese per bowl.
  7. Place bowls under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until cheese bubbles and turns golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Carefully remove from oven and serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

Sauté onions before slow cooking to develop deep caramelized flavor. Stir soup halfway through cooking to prevent sticking. Watch cheese carefully under broiler to avoid burning. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free cheese. For vegetarian, use vegetable broth and omit wine or use non-alcoholic substitute. Use gluten-free bread to keep recipe gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup, slow cooker soup, Gruyère cheese, caramelized onions, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cozy dinner