Cream of Onion Soup

Introduction

Cream of Onion Soup is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of caramelized onions. This creamy soup is perfect for a cozy meal, whether served as an appetizer or a main course. The combination of slow-cooked onions, herbs, and a velvety broth makes it an irresistible classic. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this soup delivers maximum flavor and comfort in every spoonful.

I remember making this on a chilly evening, and the aroma of caramelized onions filled the kitchen with warmth. The soup was thick, luscious, and exactly what I needed to unwind. A sprinkle of fresh thyme and a touch of cream gave it that extra depth, while a crusty slice of bread on the side made it complete.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. You can customize it to your taste—add a dash of sherry for a subtle twist or top it with melted cheese for a French onion-style vibe. No matter how you serve it, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe when you crave something hearty and satisfying.

Perfect for:

• Chilly evenings
• Family dinners
• Comfort food lovers
• Elegant first course for dinner parties
• Paired with crusty bread

Why You’ll Love This Cream of Onion Soup

Here’s why Cream of Onion Soup will become your go-to comfort dish:

• Rich and Creamy: The soup is smooth and luscious, with a silky texture that melts in your mouth.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples like onions, broth, and cream, you get a deep, satisfying flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the herbs and seasonings or make it lighter with milk instead of cream.
• Perfect for Any Season: While it’s especially comforting in colder months, this soup is delicious year-round.
• Quick and Easy: It takes less than an hour to make, yet tastes like it simmered all day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 bowls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cream of Onion Soup:

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
• Crusty bread or croutons for serving (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Onions: The star of the dish, onions are caramelized to enhance their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Butter and Olive Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil helps the onions caramelize beautifully without burning.
• Garlic and Thyme: These aromatics add a subtle savory depth that complements the sweetness of the onions.
• Flour: This helps thicken the soup, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
• Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth as the base for a flavorful soup. Homemade broth will give the best results.
• Cream: Heavy cream makes the soup luxuriously rich and smooth. You can use milk for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cream of Onion Soup:

Prepare the Onions:

1. Heat the Fat: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Lower the heat if needed to prevent burning.
3. Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Build the Soup:

4. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stirring well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the broth while stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
6. Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. You can also leave it chunky for a rustic feel.

Finish the Soup:

7. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve with crusty bread or croutons for dipping.

How to Serve Cream of Onion Soup

Cream of Onion Soup is delicious on its own or paired with your favorite sides:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of toasted baguette or crusty sourdough to soak up the creamy goodness.
• Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle grated Gruyère or Parmesan on top and broil for a few minutes until bubbly.
• As a Starter: Serve smaller portions as an elegant appetizer for dinner parties.
• Paired with Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots, parsnips, or potatoes for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips for Cream of Onion Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Cream of Onion Soup turns out perfect every time:

• Use Sweet Onions: Yellow or Vidalia onions work best for this soup due to their natural sweetness.
• Be Patient with Caramelizing: The key to deep flavor is taking your time with caramelizing the onions. Don’t rush this step.
• Deglaze the Pot: If the onions start to stick, add a splash of broth or wine to deglaze the pot and scrape up the flavorful bits.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer. For a thinner soup, add more broth.
• Blend for a Smooth Texture: Use an immersion blender for a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Lighter Version: Use milk instead of cream, or skip the cream altogether for a broth-based soup.

Recipe Variations for Cream of Onion Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cream of Onion Soup:

• French Onion Style: Top the soup with a slice of baguette and melted Gruyère cheese.
• Potato and Onion Soup: Add diced potatoes for a heartier version.
• Mushroom and Onion Soup: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Cheesy Onion Soup: Stir in shredded cheddar or Gruyère for a cheesy twist.
• Vegan Cream of Onion Soup: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegetable broth for a vegan version.
• Herb-Infused Soup: Add fresh rosemary or bay leaves for additional depth.
• Wine-Infused Soup: Deglaze the pot with white wine before adding the broth for a more complex flavor.
• Spicy Onion Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Carrot and Onion Soup: Blend in some cooked carrots for added sweetness and color.
• Bacon and Onion Soup: Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory touch.

Freezing and Storage for Cream of Onion Soup

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Special Equipment for Cream of Onion Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cream of Onion Soup easier:

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for caramelizing onions without burning.
• Immersion Blender: For a smooth and creamy texture.
• Ladle: For easy serving.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up the flavorful bits at the bottom of the pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Storage Containers: Use airtight containers for freezing or storing leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cream of Onion Soup

1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes, use plant-based butter and cream alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk.
2. Can I freeze the soup?
   Absolutely. It freezes well, though the texture may change slightly. Reheat gently and stir well.
3. Can I use red onions?
   Red onions will work, but the flavor will be stronger and less sweet than yellow onions.
4. How do I thicken the soup?
   If you want a thicker soup, simmer it longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
5. Can I make this soup vegan?
   Yes, replace the butter with olive oil, the broth with vegetable broth, and the cream with a plant-based alternative.

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Conclusion

Cream of Onion Soup is a simple yet elegant dish that will warm your soul with every bite. With its rich, caramelized onion flavor and smooth, velvety texture, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, and top it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or looking for an impressive starter for a dinner party. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

I’d love to see your version of Cream of Onion Soup! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your culinary creations. Enjoy every spoonful!