Panera French Onion Soup Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Last Updated on April 12, 2025

Before diving into the delightful world of French onion soup, let’s consider what pairs beautifully with this dish. A crisp green salad makes a refreshing companion. Use a light vinaigrette to provide a contrast to the warm, rich soup.

A side of grilled cheese sandwiches can also elevate your experience. The gooey, melty cheese complements the hearty flavors of the soup. For a more filling option, serve it with a hearty loaf of crusty bread. Each dip in the soup will bring a smile to your face. 

Finally, consider a glass of robust red wine. It harmonizes with the deep flavors and can make your meal feel truly special.

What is Panera French Onion Soup?

Panera French onion soup is a comforting dish made from caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and topped with toasted bread and melted cheese. 

This classic French dish has been loved for generations. Panera transformed it to fit the casual dining experience, focusing on quality ingredients and hearty flavors.

The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying soup that feels as luxurious as it is approachable. Panera’s version is particularly famous for its generous amount of cheese, often Gruyère, which pulls into lovely strings when you take your first spoonful.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

The flavor profile of Panera French onion soup is truly outstanding. At the forefront, you have the sweet, caramelized onions that bring a natural sweetness to the dish. This sweetness balances beautifully with the deep, savory notes of the beef broth.

Adding garlic and fresh herbs like thyme provides an aromatic complexity. A hint of acidity from balsamic vinegar offers a bright counterpoint, enhancing the overall taste. Finally, the crusty baguette adds texture, while the melted cheese rounds everything off with a rich, creamy finish.

It’s a delicious interplay between sweet, savory, and hearty elements, making every bite a true delight.

What Makes This Recipe Different from Other Panera French Onion Soups?

Many French onion soup recipes aim for simplicity, often using pre-packaged broth and standard cheese. What sets Panera’s entry apart is their commitment to using high-quality, fresh ingredients. They emphasize the cooking technique, particularly the caramelization of onions.

Panera takes the time to ensure the onions are cooked to perfection. This extensive process deepens the flavors, making them richer and more complex than most. The type of broth used also makes a difference. Combining beef and chicken broth adds depth, while the use of wines elevates the profile.

Their generous cheese layer is another standout feature. You leave every visit wanting to recreate that delicious, gooey topping.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Panera’s French onion soup at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 golden onions, thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
• 1 purple onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced into a paste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf (reduced from 2 to deepen flavor balance)
• ½ cup dry red wine (or substitute with white wine or rich broth)
• 2 quarts robust beef broth
• 1 quart savory chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 4 oz Gruyère cheese, freshly shredded

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started. Follow these steps closely to create a delicious bowl of French onion soup.

Step 1: Cook the Onions

In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the golden and purple onions. Stir to coat the onions with the fat. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. You want them to caramelize, not burn. This process takes about 30-40 minutes. They should be golden brown and sweet-smelling.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Let them cook for another minute until fragrant. The garlic will add depth to the dish.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Next, pour in the red wine. This deglazes the pan. It lifts all those tasty bits off the bottom. Let the wine cook down for about 5 minutes until it reduces slightly.

Step 4: Add Broths and Herbs

Pour in both the beef and chicken broth. Toss in the thyme and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 30 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time. Feel free to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Prepare the Baguette

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the baguette into 1-inch cubes. You want them to crisp up nicely. Place the cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Assemble the Soup

Once the soup is ready, remove the thyme and bay leaf. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Load each bowl with the crispy baguette. Generously sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese on top.

Step 7: Broil for Perfection

Put the bowls under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely! You want the cheese to melt and start bubbling. It should be golden brown, and the smell will be mouthwatering.

Tips on Making Panera French Onion Soup

1. Choose the Right Onions: Go for sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best flavor.
2. Don’t Rush Caramelization: Patience is key. Cooking onions slowly ensures they achieve that rich flavor.
3. Use Quality Broth: If possible, opt for homemade broth. Store-bought can work too; just choose one without too many additives.
4. Experiment with Cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix with mozzarella or Fontina for a unique twist.
5. Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well. It can be made the day before and allowed to sit overnight to deepen the flavors.

How Can I Store This Panera French Onion Soup?

You can store leftover French onion soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, remember that the bread will get soggy, so it’s better to store the soup and bread separately.

To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.

What to Do If You Don’t Have Some Ingredients at Home?

Running out of key ingredients? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Here are some substitutes you can use:

• Onions: Shallots or even leeks can give a new dimension to your soup. Both have a milder flavor.
• Beef Broth: If you’re low on beef broth, vegetable broth can work, though it may lack depth. A mixture of chicken broth and some soy sauce can add umami.
• Gruyère Cheese: When Gruyère isn’t available, consider Emmental or Swiss cheese. Both melt well and have a similar flavor profile.
• Red Wine: Don’t have wine? Use a splash of vinegar mixed with water, or replace it with more broth.

Conclusion

Recreating Panera’s French onion soup at home is not just a fun culinary adventure; it’s also an opportunity to savor a bowl of comforting goodness. With practice, you’ll master the art of caramelizing onions and blending flavors.

Whether you enjoy it as a starter or make it the main course, this soup is sure to bring warmth and delight to your table. So grab your ingredients and start cooking. It’s time to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness that tastes just as good at home as it does at Panera. 

Happy cooking!

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• Panera Turkey Chili Copycat Recipe
• How To Make Panera Tuna Salad Recipe 
• Best Panera Tomato Soup Recipe

Print Recipe

Panera French Onion Soup Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: French Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 340 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Imagine walking into a cozy café on a chilly day. The aroma of caramelized onions wafts through the air, promising warmth and comfort. That’s the magic of French onion soup. 

When I first had Panera's version, I knew it was special. The blend of sweet onions, savory broth, and a gooey cheese topping creates a symphony of flavors that warms the soul.

Now, let me take you on a journey into the heart of what makes Panera French onion soup extraordinary. 

We will explore its flavors, the secrets behind its deliciousness, and how to recreate it at home. Whether you're a soup lover or a curious newbie, I promise you’ll find something to cherish in this dish.

Ingredients

Servings

• ¹⁄₄ cup unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 4 golden onions, thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
• 1 purple onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced into a paste
• ¹⁄₂ tsp smoked paprika
• ¹⁄₂ tsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf (reduced from 2 to deepen flavor balance)
• ¹⁄₂ cup dry red wine (or substitute with white wine or rich broth)
• 2 quarts robust beef broth
• 1 quart savory chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, cubed into 1-inch pieces
• 4 oz Gruyère cheese, freshly shredded

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Onions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the golden and purple onions. Stir to coat the onions with the fat. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. You want them to caramelize, not burn. This process takes about 30-40 minutes. They should be golden brown and sweet-smelling.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

1. Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and smoked paprika. Let them cook for another minute until fragrant. The garlic will add depth to the dish.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

1. Next, pour in the red wine. This deglazes the pan. It lifts all those tasty bits off the bottom. Let the wine cook down for about 5 minutes until it reduces slightly.

Step 4: Add Broths and Herbs

1. Pour in both the beef and chicken broth. Toss in the thyme and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 30 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time. Feel free to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Prepare the Baguette

1. While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the baguette into 1-inch cubes. You want them to crisp up nicely. Place the cubes on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Assemble the Soup

1. Once the soup is ready, remove the thyme and bay leaf. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Load each bowl with the crispy baguette. Generously sprinkle shredded Gruyère cheese on top.

Step 7: Broil for Perfection

1. Put the bowls under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely! You want the cheese to melt and start bubbling. It should be golden brown, and the smell will be mouthwatering.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 335kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 23g36%

Saturated Fat 11.4g58%

Cholesterol 75mg25%

Sodium 1420mg60%

Total Carbohydrate 7g3%

Sugars 4g

Protein 20g40%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Choose the Right Onions: Go for sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla for the best flavor.
• Don't Rush Caramelization: Patience is key. Cooking onions slowly ensures they achieve that rich flavor.
• Use Quality Broth: If possible, opt for homemade broth. Store-bought can work too; just choose one without too many additives.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix with mozzarella or Fontina for a unique twist.
• Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well. It can be made the day before and allowed to sit overnight to deepen the flavors.

Keywords: panera french onion soup recipe