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French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

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A deeply savory soup with caramelized onions, tender beef short ribs, and a cheesy French bread topping perfect for cozy comfort meals.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
    • For the Soup:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 pound beef short ribs
    • 4 large onions, thinly sliced
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 6 cups beef broth
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
    • 1 bay leaf
    • Salt and pepper to taste

 

  • For the Topping:
  • 4 slices of French bread
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Season beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add onions to the same pot and cook until caramelized, 15–20 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Return ribs to the pot. Add beef broth, balsamic vinegar, thyme, bay leaf, and more salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is tender.
  7. Meanwhile, preheat oven broiler. Toast French bread slices lightly on a baking sheet.
  8. Once ribs are tender, remove, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return meat to the soup.
  9. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a slice of toasted bread and shredded cheese.
  10. Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Notes

  • Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
  • Substitute chicken broth for a lighter version.
  • Use Gruyère for a traditional flavor or Swiss for a milder taste.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop + Broiler
  • Cuisine: French-American