Longhorn French Onion Soup

The name “Longhorn French Onion Soup” likely refers to the version of French Onion Soup served at LongHorn Steakhouse, a popular restaurant chain in the United States. This soup is known for its rich, savory broth, perfectly caramelized onions, and signature toppings of melted Gruyère cheese over toasted bread. 

Whether you’re recreating the signature taste of the restaurant at home or adding your own twist with wine or brandy for depth, this recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or as a showstopping appetizer, Longhorn French Onion Soup combines timeless flavors with easy-to-follow preparation techniques.

Ingredients

Key Ingredients

Onions: The base of the soup, typically yellow or sweet onions, are caramelized to create the deep flavor.

Broth: Beef broth is most commonly used.Some recipes also use a mix of beef and chicken broth to balance the richness.

Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss cheese is typically melted over the soup to create a delicious, gooey topping.

Bread: A slice of crusty French bread is placed on top of the soup before broiling, absorbing the soup’s flavors while providing a crispy texture.

Butter and Olive Oil

Herbs and Seasonings: Bay leaves, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper help build layers of flavor in the broth.

How to Choose the Best Onions 

• Yellow Onions 
• Sweet Onions (like Vidalia) are another good option if you prefer a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Red Onions can be used, but they are not as traditional and tend to provide a sharper taste, so they are less common in French Onion Soup recipes.

What Type of Broth Works Best 

Beef Broth pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of caramelized onions.

Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth can be used as alternatives, but they tend to be lighter and less flavorful than beef broth.

A combination of both can also work well.

Perfect Cheese  (Gruyère vs. Swiss)

Gruyère Cheese is the classic choice for French Onion Soup.

Swiss Cheese is also a common option, providing a milder flavor with a smooth, meltable texture.

Using Wine or Brandy in Longhorn French Onion Soup

White Wine or Dry Vermouth is often added to the onions during the caramelization process to deglaze the pan and add depth of flavor.

Brandy can be used in place of wine for a slightly stronger, more aromatic note.

Both options help balance the sweetness of the onions with a hint of acidity, enriching the overall flavor of the soup.

How to Make  Longhorn French Onion Soup

How to Caramelize Onions for the Perfect French Onion Soup

Slice the onions thinly to ensure they cook evenly.

Melt butter and a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 40-50 minutes. The goal is to slowly caramelize the onions, bringing out their sweetness. Be patient, as rushing this process can result in bitter onions.

Sprinkle a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture and enhance the caramelization.

How to Prepare the Broth 

After the onions are caramelized, deglaze the pot with white wine, brandy, or a bit of broth to lift any browned bits from the bottom.

Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 30-45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Perfectly Toasting the French Bread for Topping

Slice a baguette or crusty bread into thick slices and toast them in the oven until golden and crispy.

For extra flavor, rub each slice with a garlic clove after toasting to infuse a subtle garlic taste into the bread.

How to Assemble the Soup for the Best Presentation

Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, filling them nearly to the top.

Place a slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl of soup, ensuring it fits the shape of the bowl.

Add a generous amount of cheese on top of the bread, allowing it to cover the entire surface.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Broiling the Cheese Topping

Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and slightly browned. Be sure to watch carefully to prevent the cheese from burning

Expert Tips 

The soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep the cheese and bread separate until you’re ready to serve.

When ready to serve, reheat the soup, then top with the bread and cheese and broil as instructed.

If the soup tastes too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or a small amount of soy sauce to balance the flavors.

If it’s too salty, add a bit more water or broth to dilute the saltiness, and let the flavors meld for a few minutes.

Use a high-quality, meltable cheese like Gruyère for a smooth, stretchy cheese crust.

For an extra crispy top, you can briefly place the soup bowls under a broiler, ensuring that the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

You can customize your soup with different herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley to add complexity.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra flavor boost.

For a richer soup, a splash of heavy cream can be stirred in just before serving to add creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Side Dishes to Serve 

Salads: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the rich flavor of French Onion Soup. A simple mixed greens salad with a  mustard or balsamic vinaigrette is a great choice.

Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots, add a smoky element to balance the soup’s sweetness.

Roasted Potatoes: Serve with crispy roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

What to Pair with French Onion Soup (Wine, Salad, etc.)

Wine Pairings: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Pinot Noir, pairs well with the savory, rich flavors of French Onion Soup. Alternatively, a dry white wine, like Chardonnay, can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the caramelized onions.

Breads: In addition to the traditional French bread topping, consider serving with a basket of fresh, crusty baguette or sourdough bread on the side.

Cheese Pairing: If you want to enhance the cheese element, serve the soup with a cheese plate that includes Gruyère, Swiss, or a rich Brie.

How to Serve French Onion Soup 

Presentation: Serve in individual oven-safe bowls for a personal touch. You can even bake the cheese directly on top of the soup before serving for a golden, bubbly effect.

Garnishing: Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a nice finishing touch.

Variations 

Vegetarian French Onion Soup Recipe Alternative

Vegetable Broth: Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly while still retaining a rich flavor.

Cheese: Make sure to use a vegetarian-friendly cheese option, such as a plant-based Gruyère or mozzarella, to ensure the soup remains fully vegetarian.

Adding Meats Like Chicken or Beef to French Onion Soup

Chicken: Adding cooked, shredded chicken to the soup can make it a more filling, protein-packed dish. Add the chicken during the final stages of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Beef: A hearty addition of beef (like thinly sliced steak or beef brisket) can make the soup more robust. It works well with the beef broth for an even richer flavor.

How to Make a Gluten-Free Version 

Bread: Use gluten-free bread to top the soup. Many gluten-free options are available at grocery stores, or you can use a gluten-free baguette for an authentic texture.

Broth: Ensure that the broth used is gluten-free. Check labels, as some broths may contain gluten as a thickening agent.

Flour Substitute: If the recipe calls for flour to thicken the soup, use a gluten-free flour substitute like cornstarch or a gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Nutrition and Health Benefits 

French Onion Soup is a nutritious option, providing a good source of vitamins from onions, such as Vitamin C, and minerals like potassium. It also offers protein from the cheese and broth, making it a hearty dish.

How to Make French Onion Soup Healthier

Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth to reduce the salt content of the soup.

Cheese Alternatives: Opt for reduced-fat cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative to lower the fat content while still enjoying the creamy topping.

Vegetable-Based: For a lighter version, consider using vegetable broth and skip the cheese topping or use a smaller amount of cheese.

The Benefits of Onions in French Onion Soup

Rich in Antioxidants: Onions contain antioxidants like quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

Boosts Immunity: The vitamin C in onions can help strengthen the immune system.

Supports Digestion: Onions are also high in fiber, which can aid digestion and support gut health.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Long Can You Store Longhorn French Onion Soup?

Storage: French Onion Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to separate the bread and cheese from the soup to keep them fresh.

Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop. If you prefer the cheese on top, you can toast fresh bread with cheese and then add it to the reheated soup.

Can You Freeze French Onion Soup?

Freezing: Yes, French Onion Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the bread and cheese topping. When ready to serve, reheat and add fresh bread and cheese.

Reheating from Frozen: To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

What is the Best Bread for French Onion Soup?

Baguette: A classic French baguette is ideal for French Onion Soup. It’s sturdy enough to soak up the broth without falling apart and provides a crispy texture after toasting.

Sourdough or Rustic Bread: Other good options include sourdough or any hearty, crusty bread that can stand up to the hot, rich soup.

Can I Use a Slow Cooker for French Onion Soup?

Slow Cooker Instructions: Yes, French Onion Soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker, then add the broth and herbs. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the bread and cheese just before serving, then broil to melt the cheese.

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