French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup Recipe
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.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering, Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Low Salt
Meat
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
Seasoning
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the onions thinly and cut the beef short ribs into manageable pieces to ensure even cooking and ease of handling.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: French onion soup, beef short ribs, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, sourdough, comforting soup, slow cooked beef, hearty soup