Rich and Savory: Caramelized French Onion Soup in the Slow Cooker
French Onion Soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that brings together deep, savory flavors in a simple, elegant dish. Traditionally made on the stovetop, it’s known for requiring patience and attention. But with the Crock-Pot® Slow Cooker, you can achieve the same rich caramelization and flavor depth — with much less effort.
This Caramelized French Onion Soup recipe allows the slow cooker to do the heavy lifting, freeing you up while the onions develop that signature golden-brown sweetness. Perfect for cold weather meals or cozy gatherings, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Slow Cooker Simplicity: Let it cook while you go about your day
- Deep Flavor: Low and slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness of onions
- Classic Elegance: Perfect for a dinner party or a simple weeknight meal
- Customizable: Top with your favorite cheeses or serve with different breads
Rich and Savory: Caramelized French Onion Soup in the Slow Cooker
6
servings30
minutes4
hours300
kcalIngredients
5 large yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
8 cups beef broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
1 French baguette, sliced
1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Directions
- In the bowl of a Crock-Pot® slow cooker, add sliced onions, olive oil, butter, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours, or High for 4 hours, until onions are caramelized.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar, beef broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Cover and cook on High for 1 to 2 hours, or until heated through.
- Preheat oven broiler. Place sliced baguette on a baking sheet and top each slice with shredded cheese.
- Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve soup hot, topped with cheesy baguette slices.
Serving Tips
You can serve this soup with the cheesy toast on top of the bowl or on the side for dipping. If you want a more traditional presentation, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a toasted baguette slice and cheese, and place under the broiler until bubbly and golden.
Make It Your Way
Want to put your own twist on the classic? Here are a few suggestions:
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- Try red wine vinegar in place of balsamic for a slightly sharper flavor
- Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a different melt
- Add garlic or shallots for extra depth
Final Thoughts
With its rich aroma and deep flavors, this Caramelized French Onion Soup brings a touch of gourmet into your kitchen without the hassle. Let the slow cooker handle the slow caramelization while you enjoy your day, then gather around for a meal that feels indulgent and comforting.
Perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in, this recipe is one you’ll want to return to again and again.
