The aroma of caramelized onions wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. When you take a sip of Instant Pot French Onion Soup, the rich, savory broth dances on your palate, and the gooey cheese pulls away like a well-rehearsed magic trick. loaded twice baked potato bites creamy mashed potato casserole You might just find yourself closing your eyes, savoring each moment as if you’ve been transported to a cozy little bistro in Paris.
I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends were over for a dinner party, and I thought I’d impress them with my culinary prowess. Spoiler alert: they were so impressed that they forgot their manners and slurped their soup with unabashed delight! This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, or any time you need a hug in a bowl. perfect pairing with soup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot French Onion Soup is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also bursts with deep, complex flavors
- The golden-brown color is visually appealing and inviting
- Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends
- You can easily customize toppings like croutons or extra cheese based on your preferences
I once served this soup at a gathering, and my friend couldn’t stop exclaiming how it was “like a warm hug from an onion”.
Essential Ingredients
For more inspiration, check out this Wild Mushroom Ragout recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Onions: Use sweet onions like Vidalia for that perfect caramelized flavor that sings.
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping flavors rich. For more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Hanukkah Beef Brisket recipe.
- Butter: A generous amount helps achieve that buttery richness essential for good soup.
- White Wine: Choose a dry white wine to add depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh Thyme: Just a few sprigs bring an aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish.
- Gruyère Cheese: This melty wonder tops off the soup beautifully, adding creaminess and flavor.
- Baguette Slices: Toasted slices provide that satisfying crunch and soak up all the flavors.
- Sugar: A pinch helps caramelize the onions faster while enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that are essential to taste as you go along.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté those Onions!: Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add butter until melted, then toss in sliced onions. Cook until they become soft and translucent.
Add Some Sweetness!: Sprinkle in sugar after about 10 minutes of sautéing. Stir occasionally until onions are golden brown and fragrant, about another 10 minutes.
Drown them in Flavor!: Pour in the white wine while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by half—your kitchen will smell divine!
Pour in Broth & Season!: Add beef broth along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well, ensuring everything combines beautifully before sealing your Instant Pot.
Pressure Cook Magic!: Close the lid securely and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 30 minutes. Once done, allow natural release of steam before opening—carefully!
Top it Off!: Ladle hot soup into bowls and top each with toasted baguette slices followed by Gruyère cheese. roasted asparagus with goat cheese Pop under your broiler until bubbly and golden—who can resist that?
This Instant Pot French Onion Soup will have you feeling like a gourmet chef even if you’re still figuring out how to boil water! Enjoy every spoonful as you bask in its warm embrace—the perfect antidote to any dreary day!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot French Onion Soup is a comforting delight, perfect for chilly evenings
- With rich, caramelized onions and gooey cheese, it’s a hug in a bowl
- Plus, the Instant Pot makes this classic dish quicker and easier than ever
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by sautéing the onions in your Instant Pot until they’re golden and fragrant, then add broth and seasonings. This sequence ensures a depth of flavor that will impress everyone.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Gruyère cheese for mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer. Add fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic twist that elevates the soup’s profile even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain the soup’s delightful texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For successful French onion soup, use good-quality beef broth; it enhances the overall taste immensely
- Slice your onions evenly to ensure they cook uniformly
- Lastly, don’t rush the caramelization process—patience brings out their natural sweetness!
Sharing my first attempt at this recipe brings back memories of friends gathered around my table, raving about the soup’s flavors and asking for seconds. Their laughter filled my kitchen, making every simmer worth it.
FAQ
Can I make Instant Pot French Onion Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just substitute vegetable broth for beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I store leftover French onion soup?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze it in portions for up to three months; just thaw before reheating.
Instant Pot French Onion Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Instant Pot French Onion Soup is a cozy, heartwarming dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory beef broth, topped with gooey Gruyère cheese. This quick and easy recipe transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy this classic French dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet onions, sliced (about 2 lbs)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp sugar
- 6 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 4 baguette slices, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the butter and add sliced onions, cooking until soft and translucent.
- Sprinkle in the sugar and continue sautéing until the onions are golden brown (about 20 minutes total).
- Pour in white wine, scraping any bits from the bottom, and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and seal the Instant Pot lid.
- Pressure cook on high for 30 minutes. Allow natural steam release before opening.
- Serve hot soup in bowls topped with toasted baguette slices and Gruyère cheese. Broil until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
