Welcome to a culinary journey that combines the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup with the convenience of a hearty casserole. Our French Onion Soup Casserole is a delightful twist on the traditional soup, offering layers of caramelized onions, savory broth, crusty bread, and gooey cheese. Perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. So, let’s dive into the aromatic world of French cuisine and create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of thyme, fresh or dried
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 6 slices of day-old French bread or baguette, toasted
- 1 1/2 cups of grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray for the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Make the Sauce:
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth and chicken broth, stirring constantly to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer Ingredients: Arrange the toasted French bread slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the caramelized onion mixture evenly over the bread.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the onion mixture, ensuring even coverage.
4. Bake and Serve:
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the French Onion Soup Casserole hot, scooping out generous portions onto individual plates. Enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of this casserole, simply substitute vegetable broth for the beef and chicken broth. You can also add sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or skip the bread altogether. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of your French Onion Soup Casserole. Fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme can add depth and complexity to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the French Onion Soup Casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Allow any leftover casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q: Is this casserole keto-friendly? A: While this French Onion Soup Casserole is not inherently keto-friendly due to the bread and flour used in the recipe, you can make a low-carb version by omitting the bread and using a keto-friendly thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adaptation:
For a keto-friendly version of this casserole, omit the bread entirely and use a combination of almond flour and xanthan gum to thicken the sauce. Additionally, you can use a blend of low-carb cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, and Swiss for the topping. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of French cuisine with our delectable French Onion Soup Casserole. Whether enjoyed as a hearty weeknight dinner or served as a crowd-pleasing side dish at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its layers of caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese, each bite is a true delight for the senses. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor a taste of culinary perfection!
