Crock Pot French Onion Beef Soup

This Crock Pot French Onion Beef Soup is a rich and hearty recipe, which uses short ribs and caramelized onions. It’s a restaurant-quality dish, ready in about 10 hours and 30 minutes.

Crock Pot French Onion Beef Soup Ingredients

For the Stock:

• 3 lbs. short ribs, seasoned with salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 sprigs fresh tarragon
• 1 teaspoon peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 5 carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
• 2 medium onions, peeled and quartered
• 5 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
• 10 cups water

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 6 medium to large onions, peeled, halved, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter + 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ cup marsala wine

Soup Topping:

• 4 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 French baguette, sliced and lightly toasted (2 slices per serving)

How To Make Crock Pot French Onion Beef Soup

1. Roast the short ribs: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place seasoned short ribs on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Make the stock: Transfer roasted ribs to a Crock Pot. Add carrots, onions, celery, herbs, salt, peppercorns, and water. Cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Strain and chill: Remove the bones and set aside to cool. Shred the meat, discard fat and bones. Strain the broth into a pot and discard vegetables. Chill overnight and remove hardened fat from the surface the next day.
4. Reduce the stock: Place the stock on medium heat, uncovered, and let simmer for 30 minutes to concentrate the flavor.
5. Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onions, salt, and thyme. Cook, stirring often, for 30 minutes until deeply golden. Add marsala wine and cook 5 more minutes.
6. Combine soup: Add caramelized onions and shredded beef to the simmering stock. Stir and let simmer another 15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Prepare the topping: Preheat broiler. Fill oven-safe bowls with soup, top with toasted baguette slices, and cover with Gruyère cheese.
8. Broil and serve: Broil for 3–4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Serve hot.

Recipe Tips

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, the broth and beef can be made a day in advance and chilled overnight.
• What’s the best cheese for topping French onion soup?
  Gruyère is classic, but Swiss or provolone can also work.
• How do I caramelize onions properly?
  Use low heat and plenty of time—at least 30 minutes—until they’re golden brown and soft.
• Why chill the stock overnight?
  Chilling allows you to easily remove excess fat from the surface.
• Can I skip roasting the ribs?
  Roasting adds deep flavor, so it’s highly recommended for the best soup base.

What To Serve With French Onion Beef Soup

This filling soup is perfect on its own, but pairs well with:

• A crisp Caesar salad
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Garlic butter green beans
• A glass of red wine
• Apple walnut salad

How To Store French Onion Beef Soup

Refrigerate: Store soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze soup without bread and cheese topping for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave. Add fresh toasted bread and cheese before serving.

French Onion Beef Soup Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 405
• Total Fat: 25.6g
• Cholesterol: 77.9mg
• Sodium: 1375mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4.1g
• Sugars: 6.7g
• Protein: 22.4g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, chuck roast or beef shank can be used if short ribs aren’t available.

What can I use instead of Marsala wine?
Dry sherry, brandy, or a splash of red wine are good substitutes.

How do I make this soup less salty?
Use low-sodium broth and avoid extra salt when seasoning at the end.

Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be—just ensure your bread and soup ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this in advance for a dinner party?
Absolutely! Prepare everything a day ahead and broil with cheese just before serving.

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot French Onion Beef And Noodles
• Crock Pot Deli Roast Beef
• Crock Pot Cross Rib Roast