French onion soup, a beloved classic in many restaurants, is renowned for its rich flavor and comforting warmth. While traditionally a bit of a kitchen project, this slow cooker version simplifies the process without sacrificing taste. Set your ingredients, start the timer, and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting.
The Slow Cooker Magic:
In the first few hours, the onions in the slow cooker transform, developing a rich, deep caramelized flavor. Then, with the addition of broth, sherry, and seasonings, the slow cooker works its magic, melding the flavors over the next hour. For that authentic touch of broiled cheese on the mug’s edge, just like in the restaurants, ladle the soup into ovenproof mugs, top with cheese and croutons, and broil to perfection.
Slow Cooker French Onion Soup Recipe:
Total Time: 8 hours, 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours, 15 minutes
Ingredients
4 large onions, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon sugar
2 quarts beef broth, no sodium added
¼ cup sherry
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1½ teaspoons salt
Pepper to taste
Sliced bread of choice (or croutons)
8 ounces Gruyere cheese, sliced (Swiss cheese is a suitable substitute)
Preparation
In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine onions, butter, sugar, and salt. Cover and cook on high for 7 hours, or until the onions are soft and browned.
Add beef broth, sherry, thyme sprigs, and pepper to your preference. Cover and cook on high for an additional hour.
To serve, place sliced bread (or croutons) on the surface of the soup and top with sliced Gruyere cheese.
Enjoy this effortless, slow-cooked version of French onion soup, bringing all the gourmet flavors of the restaurant classic right into your home kitchen.
