Easy French Onion Soup

#### Step 2: Add Garlic & Wine
Once the onions are caramelized and golden, stir in the **minced garlic** and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. If you’re using **white wine**, pour it in now and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to develop. If you prefer to skip the wine, you can simply add a little extra broth for depth.

#### Step 3: Add Broth & Seasonings
Pour in the **beef broth** and add the **bay leaf** and **thyme**. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with **salt** and **pepper** as needed.

#### Step 4: Prepare the Toasted Bread
While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the **slices of bread** on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. You want the bread to be firm enough to float on top of the soup without becoming soggy.

#### Step 5: Assemble and Broil
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into individual oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of the toasted bread on top of each bowl of soup, then sprinkle the **shredded Gruyère cheese** generously over the bread. Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.

#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bowls from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Then, serve your **easy French onion soup** hot and enjoy the delicious combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, melted cheese, and crispy bread.

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### Tips for Perfect Easy French Onion Soup

– **Use Sweet Onions**: While yellow onions are most commonly used in French onion soup, **sweet onions** like Vidalia can add a natural sweetness that enhances the flavor of the soup.
– **Opt for Homemade Broth**: If you have the time, using **homemade beef broth** can elevate the soup’s flavor. However, store-bought broth works just fine for a quicker meal.
– **Toast the Bread Well**: Be sure to toast the bread until it’s golden and firm so it won’t fall apart when topped with soup and cheese. The crunch adds a nice texture contrast to the smooth soup.
– **Cheese Choices**: Gruyère is the classic choice for French onion soup because it melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor. However, feel free to mix in **Swiss cheese** or **mozzarella** for a slightly milder taste.
– **Make Ahead**: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a few days. Simply reheat and add the toasted bread and cheese just before serving.

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### Why This Recipe Works

**Easy French Onion Soup** is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients to create a dish that’s packed with flavor. The slow caramelization of the onions gives the soup its rich sweetness, while the savory broth ties everything together. Topped with crispy bread and melted cheese, it’s a classic recipe that never fails to impress. Plus, by using a few shortcuts, this version of French onion soup is faster and simpler than traditional recipes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

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### Serving Suggestions for Easy French Onion Soup

– **Side Salad**: A light, refreshing side salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonderfully to balance the richness of the soup.
– **Grilled Cheese Sandwich**: Pair your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a true comfort meal.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Oven-roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts, make a great side dish for added nutrition.

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### Final Thoughts

Nothing says comfort like a bowl of **Easy French Onion Soup**. This dish is the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and creamy, with the satisfying crunch of melted cheese on top. It’s a timeless classic that’s sure to warm you up on a cold day or impress your guests at dinner. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe proves that with just a few simple ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor the goodness of homemade French onion soup!