Name: French Onion Short Rib Soup with Gruyère Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons salted butter – For caramelizing the onions.; 4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced – Sweet and savory base for the soup.; Black pepper, to taste – Adds subtle spice.; 2 shallots, sliced – Enhances onion flavor depth.; 4 cloves garlic, chopped – For aromatic depth.; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves – Earthy herb for flavor.; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage – Complements the thyme.; Red chili flakes, to taste – Adds a hint of heat.; 6-8 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Base for the soup.; 1/2 cup tamari or low-sodium soy sauce – Adds umami depth.; 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs – Tender, rich protein for the soup.; 2 bay leaves – For a classic flavor.; 1 star anise (optional) – Adds subtle licorice notes.; 2 cups baby carrots – Sweet, tender vegetable addition.; 6 slices French bread – Base for the Gruyère toast.; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese – Melts beautifully for the toast topping.

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Imagine a dish that warms you to your core and wraps you in the coziest hug—French Onion Short Rib Soup with Gruyère Toast. This masterpiece combines the deep caramelized sweetness of onions, melt-in-your-mouth tender short ribs, and the golden, bubbly perfection of Gruyère-covered toast. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner or treating yourself to something extra special, this soup is here to impress. Trust me, this one’s a keeper!

Why You’ll Love French Onion Short Rib Soup with Gruyère Toast

Versatile

Perfect as a show-stopping main or an indulgent side, this soup fits any occasion beautifully.

Luxurious Flavors

The rich, deep flavors of caramelized onions and tender short ribs make every spoonful unforgettable.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Prepare the base ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve—ideal for busy evenings or hosting guests.

A Crowd Pleaser

With its comforting and rich profile, this dish wins hearts at the dinner table every time.

Ingredients

Short Ribs

The star of the dish, adding rich flavor and a tender texture.

Onions

The hero of French onion soup—sweet, caramelized, and bursting with flavor.

Beef Broth

The flavorful foundation that ties everything together.

Red Wine

A splash of red wine adds depth and complexity to the broth.

Gruyère Cheese

Creamy, melty, and slightly nutty, Gruyère is the perfect topping.

Baguette Slices

Crisp and golden, these are the ideal base for the gooey cheese.

Fresh Thyme

Aromatic and herbaceous, thyme enhances the flavors beautifully.

Garlic

An essential element to build flavor.

Butter and Olive Oil

A rich duo that creates the perfect base for caramelizing the onions.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Brown the Short Ribs

Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. In a heavy-bottomed pot, sear them over high heat in olive oil until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Caramelize the Onions

In the same pot, melt butter and add the onions. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until golden and caramelized. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Build the Soup

Return the short ribs to the pot, add the beef broth, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and let it cook until the ribs are tender and fall off the bone.

Shred the Meat

Remove the short ribs from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the shredded meat to the soup.

Toast the Bread

While the soup simmers, preheat the broiler. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet, top with Gruyère, and broil until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, top each with a Gruyère toast, and enjoy immediately!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 1 bowl with toast
Calories per Serving: 580 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time:3 hours 20 minutes

How to Serve French Onion Short Rib Soup

With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a light vinaigrette-dressed salad for a refreshing contrast.
As a Standalone: Rich enough to shine as a meal on its own.
With Extra Cheese: Serve with additional Gruyère for the cheese lovers at the table.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead: The soup base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Cheese Substitution: If Gruyère isn’t available, try sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese.
Wine Alternative: Replace the red wine with extra beef broth if desired.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different cut of meat?
A1: Yes, cuts like oxtail or chuck roast work wonderfully as substitutes.
Q2: Can this soup be made vegetarian?
A2: Replace the short ribs with mushrooms and the beef broth with vegetable broth for a flavorful vegetarian option.
Q3: How long do leftovers last?
A3: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze the soup?
A4: Absolutely! The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q5: What’s the best bread to use?
A5: A baguette is ideal, but sourdough slices also work beautifully.
Q6: How do I reheat the soup?
A6: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave.
Q7: Can I add extra vegetables?
A7: Absolutely! Mushrooms, carrots, or celery are great additions.
Q8: What type of red wine is best?
A8: A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works perfectly.
Q9: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A9: Yes, but freshly grated cheese will melt more smoothly.
Q10: Can I substitute thyme?
A10: Rosemary or bay leaves are excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

French Onion Short Rib Soup with Gruyère Toast is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. With its rich, comforting flavors and show-stopping presentation, it’s destined to become a favorite. Whether you’re treating loved ones or indulging solo, this dish will fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy.