Applebee’s French Onion Soup is the ultimate comfort food with its deeply caramelized onions, savory broth, and a thick layer of gooey, melted cheese on top of a crunchy crouton.
The flavors are rich and heartwarming, making it the perfect soup for a cozy evening or as a starter to a delicious meal.
Recreating this Applebee’s classic at home is easier than you might think—and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
This soup is simmered slowly to develop that incredible depth of flavor, then topped with a golden crown of melted cheese that pulls you in for every bite.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Difficulty level: Medium
Ingredients
The necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 4 slices of baguette or French bread (toasted)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Alternative ingredients
- Vegan version: Use vegetable broth and plant-based butter and cheese.
- Gluten-free version: Substitute the bread with gluten-free bread.
- Lower-sodium version: Opt for a reduced-sodium broth and cheese.
Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive into crafting the perfect homemade version of Applebee’s French Onion Soup.
Steps
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10-15 minutes.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and continue cooking until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 20 more minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pot with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced slightly.
- Pour in the beef broth, add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the soup is simmering, toast the baguette slices under the broiler until golden and crispy.
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks.
- Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, then generously sprinkle the Gruyère and Parmesan cheese over the bread.
- Broil the soup until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, about 2-4 minutes.
- Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve hot, with extra cheese if desired.
This soup is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making it a great addition to any meal or a comforting main dish.
Nutritional Benefits
- Onions are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Beef broth provides collagen, important for joint and skin health.
- Garlic supports the immune system and adds a boost of flavor and nutrients.
- Gruyère cheese is a great source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Top with extra fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
- For a heartier version, add beef (shredded or sliced) for more protein.
- Swap the bread for garlic bread to enhance the flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and sharp cheddar for a cheesier finish.
- Add caramelized mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the onions.
Questions & Answers
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses like provolone for a meltier, cheesier top.
How do I prevent the onions from burning?
Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring often, and add a little water if they stick. Low and slow is the key to caramelizing without burning.
Do I have to use white wine?
White wine adds depth, but it’s optional. You can replace it with more broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! French onion soup actually gets better with time. You can prepare the soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat and top with the bread and cheese before serving.
Can I freeze French onion soup?
Yes, the soup (without the bread and cheese) freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and top with the bread and cheese.
What if I don’t have oven-safe bowls?
If you don’t have broiler-safe bowls, you can toast the bread with the cheese on a baking sheet and then place it on top of the soup before serving.
Can I use vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works as a substitute, though the soup will have a lighter flavor than the traditional beef broth version.
What can I serve with French onion soup?
It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
How can I make the soup more flavorful?
Try using a mix of beef and chicken broth, or simmer the soup longer for a richer, more concentrated flavor.
Can I use pre-made croutons?
Yes, you can use store-bought croutons or homemade ones as a quicker alternative to toasting bread slices.
Make sure to share this delicious Applebee’s French Onion Soup recipe with friends and family—it’s a classic that always impresses!
