Name: Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional); 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred); 2 cups water; 1/2 cup dry sherry or white wine; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 baguette, sliced and toasted; 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded; Black pepper to taste

French Onion Soup is a classic comfort dish, combining caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and melted cheese. This slow cooker recipe simplifies the process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Perfect for cozy evenings or dinner parties, this soup is hearty, rich, and deliciously satisfying with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker French Onion Soup is a foolproof recipe for indulgent yet easy comfort food. The slow cooking allows the onions to develop a deep, caramelized sweetness, enhancing the broth’s rich flavor. It’s perfect for busy days—prep it in the morning and enjoy a gourmet dinner with little fuss. Plus, the topping of crusty bread with melted, golden cheese is irresistible!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Slice onions evenly for uniform cooking.
Use a high-quality beef broth for depth of flavor.
For maximum cheese melt, broil the soup bowls just before serving.
Add a pinch of sugar to aid caramelization if onions are not sweet enough.
Use fresh thyme for added aroma and taste.

Yield: 6 servings

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

A savory, caramelized French Onion Soup slow-cooked to perfection, topped with melty cheese and crusty bread for ultimate comfort.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
4 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
2 cups water
1/2 cup dry sherry or white wine
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
1 baguette, sliced and toasted
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
Black pepper to taste

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar (if using). Cook on medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
Set Up the Slow Cooker: Transfer caramelized onions to the slow cooker. Add beef broth, water, sherry, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving.
Prepare the Topping: Toast baguette slices until crisp. Preheat the broiler.
Assemble and Serve: Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, place a baguette slice on top, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère. Broil until cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a more robust flavor, caramelize onions a day ahead and refrigerate them.
Adjust salt and pepper levels after slow cooking to suit your taste.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 488Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 13gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 58mgSodium 1668mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 3gSugar 10gProtein 18g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredient Notes

Onions: Yellow onions work best for their natural sweetness. Avoid red onions as they can alter the flavor.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.
Butter: Provides a rich base for caramelizing the onions.
Sherry or White Wine: Adds a slight tang and depth to the soup; substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Gruyère Cheese: Classic for French Onion Soup, but Swiss or mozzarella can work as substitutes.
Baguette: Sliced and toasted, it’s the perfect base for melted cheese.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for umami.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for the topping.
Cheese Variations: Use a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan for a nuttier flavor, or cheddar for extra sharpness.
Herbs: Add a bay leaf or rosemary sprig during cooking for additional aroma.
Spicy Twist: Include a dash of chili flakes for a slight heat kick.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Freezer: Freeze the soup (without the bread and cheese) in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat soup on the stovetop and prepare fresh bread and cheese for topping.