Panera French Onion Soup Recipe

Making this French onion soup was like a cozy culinary adventure, and I’m seriously obsessed with the caramelized onion goodness. The Gruyère-covered baguettes soaking up the rich broth make it feel like I’m having a mini Parisian getaway in my own kitchen!

French Onion Soup is a classic and a favorite of so many people for its rich flavor and warm aroma. I love how the combination of unsalted butter and olive oil perfectly caramelizes the onions.

Sweetness from sugar, paired with a splash of dry white wine, provides an irresistible depth. Topped with melty Gruyère cheese over crusty French baguette slices, it is pure comfort.

Panera French Onion Soup Recipe Ingredients

• Onions: Rich in antioxidants, add sweetness and depth to the soup.
• Garlic: Contains anti-inflammatory properties, enhances flavor.
• Beef broth: Base of the soup, provides protein and savory flavor.
• Gruyère cheese: Offers calcium and a creamy, nutty taste.
• Dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity to the broth.
• Bay leaf: Infuses aromatic warmth into the soup.
• Olive oil: Healthy fats, aids in caramelizing onions.
• French baguette: Provides carbohydrates, turns crisp under melted cheese.

Panera French Onion Soup Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3/4 cup dry white wine
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup Cognac or brandy (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 slices French baguette, about 1 inch thick
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

How to Make this Panera French Onion Soup Recipe

1. In a big pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, let the butter and olive oil mingle. Then add the sliced onions, stirring occasionally. For about 25 to 30 minutes, let them soften and become caramelized to your taste.

2. Combine the onions with minced garlic, sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook until fragrant and delicious, which should take about 1-2 minutes.

3. Blend the flour well with the onions, then stir it into the mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the dry white wine to the pot to deglaze it, using a wooden spoon to loosen the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce by half.

5. Incorporate into the broth beef and bay leaf. Boil the soup, then reduce to a simmer. Let the uncovered soup simmer for about half an hour.

6. Add the Worcestershire sauce for a boost of flavor. It’s pretty amazing how it works out. Or, if you want the flavor to be even deeper, use Cognac or brandy. Stir it in and then serve.

7. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your baking sheet and put your baguette slices on it. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake until the baguette slices are barely toasty and a very light golden color. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

8. Take the bay leaf out of the soup. Spoon the hot soup into bowls that can go in an oven.

9. Top each bowl of soup with a slice of toasted baguette, then mound the Gruyère on top of the soup and bread.

10. Put the bowls on a baking sheet and send them to the oven. Broil them until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Serve them hot.

Panera French Onion Soup Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot or Dutch oven
2. Wooden spoon
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cup
7. Baking sheet
8. Oven
9. Broiler
10. Oven-safe bowls

FAQ

• What kind of onions should I use for French Onion Soup?
  Yellow onions are most commonly used, but you can mix in some sweet onions for added flavor.
• Can I substitute the white wine with something else?
  Yes, you can use additional beef broth or a mixture of beef broth and apple cider vinegar.
• How do I get the onions to caramelize properly?
  Cook them slowly over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and soft.
• Is it necessary to add Cognac or brandy?
  No, it’s optional. It adds depth to the flavor, but you can omit it if preferred.
• What type of bread is best for this soup?
  A crusty French baguette is ideal as it holds up well and adds texture to the soup.
• Can I prepare the soup in advance?
  Yes, you can make the soup base in advance and reheat it. Add the bread and cheese just before serving.

Panera French Onion Soup Recipe Substitutions and Variations

2 tbsp unsalted butter – Substitute with 2 tbsp of vegan butter or margarine for a dairy-free option.
3/4 cup dry white wine – for an alcohol-free version, substitute with 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth.
6 cups beef broth – substitute with 6 cups vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
1/4 cup cognac or brandy (optional) – if making alcohol-free, substitute with 1/4 cup apple juice.
2 cups of Gruyère cheese, finely grated; substitute with 2 cups of Swiss cheese or Jarlsberg.

Pro Tips

1. Perfect Caramelization: To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, be patient and avoid rushing the process. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, and if the onions start sticking, add a splash of water to deglaze the pot and prevent burning.