Description
This French Onion Soup is a cozy, creamy twist on the classic, made rich with sweet yellow onions, a creamy white sauce, and a touch of Velveeta for added smoothness. Garnished with shredded cheddar and served with slices of warm dark bread, this soup is ideal for chilly days when you crave a hearty bowl of comfort.
Ideal For
This soup is perfect for:
- Fans of classic French onion soup who want a creamier version.
- Cozy dinners, lunches, or any chilly evening.
- Entertaining guests with a warm, comforting appetizer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: Rich, creamy, and deliciously filling.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and readily available ingredients.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this soup accessible to all cooking levels.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 cups thinly sliced yellow sweet onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 can (15 oz) chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1/4 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed or shredded
- 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups thick white sauce (recipe below)
- Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
White Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
How To Make French Onion Soup
Step 1: Prepare the White Sauce
- In a 1-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and stir constantly, cooking until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Slowly add the milk, a little at a time, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Add salt and continue stirring until the sauce reaches a thick, pudding-like consistency. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Soup
- In a 2-quart saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low-medium heat. Add sliced onions.
- Sauté the onions, stirring frequently, until soft and translucent (avoid browning).
- Add chicken broth, bouillon cubes, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined and heated through.
- Stir in the prepared white sauce and Velveeta cheese, allowing the cheese to melt as you stir.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ingredients are fully blended and the soup is smooth.
Step 3: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, and serve with slices of warm, dark Russian bread or your favorite crusty bread.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 1-quart saucepan
- 2-quart saucepan
- Whisk
- Spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm. You may add a splash of milk if the soup is too thick.
FAQ
Can I use another type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can substitute with a mild cheese that melts well, such as Gruyere or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable broth and replace the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon cubes for a vegetarian version.
What is the best bread to serve with this soup?
Dark Russian bread is a classic choice, but any hearty bread, like sourdough or French baguette, works well for dipping.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Feel free to add finely chopped mushrooms or carrots for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy take on French Onion Soup combines savory onions, a velvety white sauce, and melted cheese for a soul-warming experience. Serve it with bread to soak up every last bit of deliciousness, and enjoy a bowl that’s sure to become a favorite for cozy evenings. Perfect for a comforting dinner or as an impressive appetizer when you’re hosting