As the chilly air sweeps in, nothing feels quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of French onion soup. I remember one particular evening when the aroma of caramelized onions filled my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits after a long day. That warm scent is the essence of home and happiness, and with my Instant Pot, I’ve discovered the secret to making this delicious dish quicker and easier than ever before.
Imagine sweet, golden onions melding with rich beef broth and a splash of red wine—each spoonful is a cozy embrace on a cold night. Perfect for those evenings when you crave the warmth of a bistro without leaving your home, this recipe transforms a classic into a hassle-free favorite. With a few simple ingredients and just one pot, you can serve up restaurant-quality comfort food that’s sure to impress. Get ready to savor the rich, savory goodness of Instant Pot French Onion Soup!
Why is Pot French Onion Soup So Special?
Comfort at its finest: This recipe captures the heartwarming essence of traditional French onion soup, all made effortlessly in an Instant Pot.
Quick cooking: Get delicious results in a fraction of the time, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Flavorful layers: The combination of caramelized onions, robust beef broth, and aromatic thyme creates a heavenly depth in every spoonful.
Versatile dish: Enjoy it as a cozy meal on its own or elevate it with a side salad for a complete dining experience.
Crowd-pleaser quality: Ideal for gatherings, this soup will impress family and friends, making it a go-to recipe that everyone loves.
Dive into the world of effortless meal prep with this delightful bowl of warmth and flavor!
Pot French Onion Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
Yellow Onions – Sweetness and flavor; they’re best for caramelizing, creating that rich base you crave in a Pot French Onion Soup.
Beef Bone Broth – Richness and depth; it enhances the flavor, and mixing it with regular beef stock is a great option for ultimate savoriness.
Beef Stock – Adds body and complexity; can be substituted with vegetable broth if you’re looking for a lighter fare.
Dry Red Wine – Acidity and complexity; if you prefer to skip the alcohol, use additional broth for rich flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Perfect for sautéing onions; olive oil can be swapped in for a dairy-free alternative.
Fresh Thyme – Offers aromatic depth; if using dried thyme, reduce to 1 teaspoon to balance the flavor.
Bay Leaf – Provides subtle background flavor; remember to remove it before serving for the best experience.
Garlic – Adds a savory base flavor; fresh is ideal, but garlic powder may work in a pinch.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Ground Black Pepper – For a hint of spice; freshly ground delivers a more vibrant flavor.
For the Cheese Toasts
Baguette – This will be the foundation for your delightful cheese toast; any crusty bread works as long as it’s sliced thinly for optimal toasting.
Gruyère Cheese – Melts beautifully over the soup; freshly grated is better than pre-shredded for that perfect gooey topping.
Enjoy crafting this cozy and delicious Pot French Onion Soup with these simple ingredients!
How to Make Pot French Onion Soup
Sauté Onions: Set your Instant Pot to sauté and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 4 thinly sliced yellow onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Stir for about 5 minutes until the onions have softened and released their juices.
Deglaze & Pressure Cook: Pour in 3 tablespoons of water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Secure the lid and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes to infuse the flavors deeply.
Release & Caramelize: Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure and remove the lid. Switch back to sauté mode for another 5 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize further until they achieve a golden-brown color.
Add Wine: Stir in ½ cup of dry red wine and simmer for 10 minutes. This will reduce the wine, enhancing the flavors. Remember to discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf at this stage.
Combine Broths: Pour in 4 cups of beef bone broth and 2 cups of beef stock. Stir well and let it simmer on sauté for an additional 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Season: Taste and season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
Prepare Cheese Toasts: Preheat your broiler. Slice a baguette into thin pieces; toast them until golden brown. Top each slice with freshly grated Gruyère cheese and broil until the cheese is bubbly and melted—about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, placing the cheesy toasts on top. Enjoy the instant warmth and joy of your creation!
Optional: Garnish with additional thyme leaves for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pot French Onion Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this cozy dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty meat-free option. Feel free to add extra vegetables for added flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Replace Gruyère cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply skip the cheese for a lighter version. You can add more herbs for flavor!
- Spicy: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños during the sauté for a delightful kick. Your tastebuds will thank you!
- Herb Boost: Toss in some fresh parsley or dill just before serving to elevate the dish with vibrant, fresh flavors.
- Wine-Free: Skip the red wine and substitute it with more broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a slight tang without the alcohol.
- Onion Variety: Experiment with a mix of onions, such as shallots for a sweeter taste or even red onions for a different flavor profile; each will bring its unique twist to the dish.
- Complex Layering: Add a tablespoon of balsamic glaze while the broth simmers to deepen the flavors and add a slight sweetness. Try it for an inviting depth!
- Crusty Bread Alternatives: Instead of a baguette, try using ciabatta or sourdough for the cheese toasts; each will offer their unique texture and flavor that pairs well with the soup.
Embrace your creativity in cooking and enjoy making this recipe your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot French Onion Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can caramelize the onions and cook them in the broth up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply refrigerate the soup after cooking. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the soup on sauté mode, adding the wine and letting it simmer for a few minutes to bring back that rich flavor. The cheesy toasts can also be prepared in advance—simply toast the baguette slices, top them with Gruyère cheese, and broil just before serving for that delicious, bubbly finish. This way, you’ll enjoy all the cozy comfort with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Pot French Onion Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezer: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
Cheese Toasts: Prepare fresh cheese toasts each time you serve the soup for the best texture—soft on the inside and crispy on top!
What to Serve with Instant Pot French Onion Soup?
Cozy up to a delicious meal by complementing the rich flavors of your French onion soup with delightful pairings that elevate the experience.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens dressed in a light vinaigrette brightens up each bite and balances the soup’s richness.
- Garlic Bread: The crunch of buttery bread with a garlicky kick perfectly complements the velvety soup, adding a mouthwatering contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips add a sweet, earthy element to your meal, enhancing the comfort of the soup.
- Creamy Polenta: This smooth, buttery side provides a lovely texture that complements the soup without overpowering it. Sprinkle with cheese for an extra treat!
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic companion; gooey, melty cheese sandwiched between warm bread is the ideal sidekick to any bowl of soup.
- Crispy Potato Chips: For a delightful crunch, serve some homemade or store-bought chips; they add a playful texture and savory flavor.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of dry red wine mirrors the wine used in the soup, creating a harmonious dining experience that truly feels special.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this light, airy dessert that beautifully contrasts the savory depth of the soup.
- Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous with fresh herbs delivers a refreshing taste that enhances the comfort of your soup, making it feel complete.
- Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink refreshes the palate and brightens the overall dining experience without clashing with the soup’s flavors.
Expert Tips for Pot French Onion Soup
- Sautéing Onions: Take your time during this step for the best caramelization; burnt onions can alter the soup’s flavor.
- Remove Herbs: Don’t forget to take out the thyme sprigs and bay leaf before serving, or your guests might get an unwanted surprise in their soup!
- Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the cheese toasts while broiling, as they can burn quickly. A slightly ajar oven door helps you control the browning.
- Broth Combination: Mixing beef bone broth with regular beef stock enhances the richness of your Pot French Onion Soup, making each spoonful even more satisfying.
- Ingredient Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Comté for a personal twist on your cheese toasts!
Instant Pot French Onion Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of onions should I use for the soup?
Absolutely, yellow onions are the best choice for caramelizing in this recipe! They offer a natural sweetness that enhances the final flavor of the soup. Avoid using white onions, as they can introduce a sharper taste that doesn’t complement the comforting vibe of French onion soup.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot French Onion Soup?
For short-term storage, transfer the leftover soup into an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day! Make sure to let it cool down completely before sealing it in the fridge.
Can I freeze Instant Pot French Onion Soup?
Very! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. For the best texture, add fresh cheese toasts right before serving!
What should I do if my onions burn while sautéing?
Oh no! If this happens, the best approach is to start over. Burnt onions can give the soup an unpleasant bitter taste. Make sure to keep an eye on them and stir them frequently to prevent burning. If you see dark spots forming, lower the heat immediately. Allowing more time to cook at a lower heat can result in the perfect caramelization you’re aiming for.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Of course! You can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil for sautéing the onions. For the cheese toasts, consider using a dairy-free cheese option that melts well for that comforting topping experience. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as some dairy-free alternatives might have different flavor profiles.
Instant Pot French Onion Soup: Cozy Flavor in No Time
Equipment
- - Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 large Yellow Onions Thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can substitute olive oil
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Use 1 teaspoon dried if preferred
- 1 Bay Leaf Remove before serving
- ½ cup Dry Red Wine Optional; replace with broth if desired
- 4 cups Beef Bone Broth
- 2 cups Beef Stock Can substitute with vegetable broth
- Kosher Salt To taste
- Ground to taste Black Pepper Freshly ground preferred
For the Cheese Toasts
- 1 large Baguette Sliced thinly
- 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Freshly grated
Instructions
How to Make Pot French Onion Soup
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté and melt the butter. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir for about 5 minutes until the onions have softened and released their juices.
- Pour in 3 tablespoons of water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Secure the lid and pressure cook on high for 20 minutes.
- Carefully release the pressure and remove the lid. Switch back to sauté mode for another 5 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize.
- Stir in the dry red wine and simmer for 10 minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
- Pour in the beef bone broth and beef stock. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Taste and season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat your broiler. Slice the baguette; toast them until golden brown. Top each slice with Gruyère cheese and broil until melted.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, placing the cheesy toasts on top. Enjoy!