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French Onion Gratinée

French Onion Gratinée Recipe

Welcome to the world of French Onion Gratinée, one of the most iconic and comforting dishes in French cuisine. Famous for its deeply caramelized onions, rich, savory broth, crusty toasted bread, and irresistibly bubbling cheese topping, this classic soup turns the simplest pantry ingredients into something truly luxurious and unforgettable.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 4 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • ½ cup dry white wine optional
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper
Gratinée Topping
  • 4 baguette slices
  • 1½ cups grated Gruyère cheese

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Oven-safe soup bowls
  • Baking tray (to place
  • Oven with broiler

Method
 

  1. How to make French Onion Gratinée
Step 1: Caramelize Onions
  1. Cook onions slowly in butter and oil until deep golden brown.
    French Onion Gratinée
Step 2: Build Flavor
  1. Add garlic and flour.
    French Onion Gratinée
Step 3: Simmer
  1. Add broth and herbs. Simmer for 20–30 minutes.
    French Onion Gratinée
Step 4: Prepare Bread
  1. Toast baguette slices until dry.
    French Onion Gratinée
Step 5: Gratinée Finish
  1. Top soup with bread and cheese. Broil until bubbly and golden.
    French Onion Gratinée

Notes

Use heavy pots for even cooking
Cook onions slowly, never rush
Use freshly grated cheese
Use good-quality stock