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French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup Recipe

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup Recipe

4.9 from 25 reviews

This French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup combines richly caramelized onions, tender seared beef short ribs, and a savory beef broth, topped with toasted sourdough and melted Gruyère cheese. It offers a hearty, comforting twist on classic French onion soup, perfect for cold evenings or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • 2 lbs beef short ribs

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 bay leaves

Liquids and Dairy

  • 6 cups beef broth (preferably homemade)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

Bread

  • 4 slices sourdough bread

Seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice the onions thinly and cut the beef short ribs into manageable pieces to ensure even cooking and ease of handling.
  2. Caramelize Onions: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly for about 30 minutes until they turn a rich golden brown, developing deep flavor.
  3. Sear Short Ribs: Push the caramelized onions to the side of the pot, add the beef short ribs, and sear them until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes, to lock in juices and add depth to the soup.
  4. Simmer Soup: Pour in the beef broth, add fresh thyme leaves and bay leaves, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 2 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and flavors to meld.
  5. Prepare Cheese Toasts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of sourdough bread on top of each bowl, and generously sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese over the bread.
  6. Bake and Serve: Place the bowls in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles with a golden crust. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors.

Notes

  • Using homemade beef broth enhances the depth of flavor but store-bought broth works well in a pinch.
  • Slow caramelization of onions is key to the soup’s signature taste and should not be rushed.
  • French onion soup traditionally uses baguette; sourdough is a delicious alternative for a heartier texture.
  • Skim off any excess fat after searing the short ribs if you prefer a less fatty broth.
  • For a more intense beef flavor, brown the short ribs separately and deglaze the pan before adding to the soup.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup, beef short ribs, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, sourdough, comforting soup, slow cooked beef, hearty soup