French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup: A Cozy Comfort Dish

Name: French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup: A Cozy Comfort Dish
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef short ribs; 4 large onions, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups beef broth; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 slices of French bread; 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in comfort, isn’t there? It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day, especially when that soup is my French onion beef short rib soup. Oh my, the hearty flavors are simply out of this world! Imagine tender beef short ribs simmered to perfection in a rich broth, with sweet caramelized onions mingling and creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one!

One of my favorite memories is gathering around the dinner table with my family, as the aroma of this soup filled the air. It was always a special occasion, and the anticipation of that first spoonful was electric! The way the Gruyère cheese melted over the toasted French bread was pure magic. This soup has a way of bringing everyone together, sparking laughter and stories, while warming your heart and soul. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home too!

french onion beef short rib soup - detail 1

Ingredients for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

2 lbs beef short ribs
4 large onions, sliced into thin rings
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups beef broth (homemade for extra flavor if you can!)
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slices of French bread, toasted
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded

How to Prepare French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking!
Next, season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Brown them in the pot on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step is crucial for building flavor, so don’t rush it!
Once browned, remove the short ribs and set them aside on a plate. You’ll be bringing them back soon!
Now, add your sliced onions to the pot. Cook them low and slow, stirring occasionally, until they become beautifully caramelized—this usually takes about 30 minutes. Patience is key here; you want them golden and sweet!
After the onions are perfectly caramelized, add the minced garlic and chopped thyme. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing those flavors to blend.
Next, pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to pick up all that flavorful goodness stuck there. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it reduces slightly.
Now it’s time to return those short ribs to the pot! Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours. This will make the beef fork-tender and infuse the broth with amazing flavor.
After 2 hours, remove the short ribs from the pot. Shred the meat with two forks, discarding the bones, and return the shredded beef back to the soup. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—don’t be shy!
Meanwhile, toast your slices of French bread until they’re golden brown. You want them crunchy enough to hold up in the soup.
To finish, ladle the soup into bowls, place a slice of toasted French bread on top, and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese over each serving. Then, pop them under the broiler for just a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Wow, the smell is incredible!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Keep in mind that the nutritional information for this French onion beef short rib soup can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. I’ve provided estimates based on standard ingredients, but your results may differ. If you’re tracking your intake closely, I recommend checking the nutrition labels on your products for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and filling: This soup is a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for satisfying your hunger on a chilly evening.
Rich, layered flavors: The combination of caramelized onions and tender beef short ribs creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Comforting warmth: It’s the kind of soup that hugs you from the inside out, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Gluten-free option: With simple adjustments, you can easily make this soup gluten-free, making it friendly for all dietary needs.
Make-ahead friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy the flavors as they meld together.
Impressive presentation: Topped with gooey melted Gruyère and toasted French bread, it looks as good as it tastes!

Tips for Success

Want to take your French onion beef short rib soup to the next level? I’ve got you covered with some handy tips that’ll make this dish absolutely perfect!

Caramelization is key: When cooking your onions, don’t rush the process! Keep the heat on medium-low, and stir occasionally. Patience pays off, and you’ll end up with beautifully golden, sweet onions that elevate the entire soup.
Season as you go: Taste your soup at different stages. Adjusting seasoning gradually helps build a well-rounded flavor. A little extra salt or pepper can make a world of difference!
Use quality broth: If you have the time, homemade beef broth is a game-changer! It adds a depth of flavor that store-bought just can’t compete with. If you’re short on time, look for a high-quality brand without too many additives.
Broil for the win: When broiling the cheese, keep an eye on it! It can go from beautifully melted to burnt in no time. I usually set a timer for 2-3 minutes and watch it closely!
Shred while warm: Shredding the beef while it’s still warm makes the process much easier. And trust me, the aroma will be irresistible, making it hard to resist sneaking a piece or two!
Don’t skip the thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note to the soup. If you can’t find fresh, dried thyme works too, but use about a third of the amount since it’s more concentrated!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a French onion beef short rib soup that’s not just good, but absolutely amazing. Enjoy the process and let your kitchen fill with those comforting aromas!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my French onion beef short rib soup, there are a few delightful pairings that can really elevate the whole dining experience. Trust me, these suggestions will complement the rich, hearty flavors of the soup and create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress!

Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the richness of the soup. Think crisp romaine or mixed greens tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty lemon dressing. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty soup beautifully!
Crusty Bread: Besides the French bread already in your soup, serving extra slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette on the side is always a hit. You can even spread a little garlic butter on them before toasting for an extra layer of flavor!
Cheese Platter: If you want to keep the cheese theme going, a small cheese platter featuring various cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits can be a delightful appetizer. Gruyère, aged cheddar, and some tangy goat cheese would be fantastic choices!
Light Dessert: To finish off the meal, consider a light dessert that won’t weigh you down after such a hearty soup. A fruit sorbet or a lemon tart can cleanse the palate perfectly. Or even a simple bowl of mixed berries with a dollop of whipped cream could be the ideal sweet touch!
Wine Pairing: Since you used dry white wine in the soup, why not serve a glass alongside? A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir can enhance the flavors of the dish and make for a delightful dining experience.

With these serving suggestions, your French onion beef short rib soup will be the star of the meal, and your guests will surely leave with warm hearts and full bellies. Enjoy every moment around the table!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers of my French onion beef short rib soup? You’re in luck because this soup actually tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to store it and reheat it so you can enjoy every last drop:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion as it freezes. It should keep well for about 2-3 months.
Reheating on the Stovetop: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply pour it into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally, and heat until it’s warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
Reheating in the Microwave: For a quicker option, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Make sure it’s heated evenly throughout!
To Broil Again: If you want that melty cheese experience again, toast some fresh slices of French bread, sprinkle on the Gruyère, and broil them as you did before. Then, serve them on top of the reheated soup for that delicious finish!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting flavors of my French onion beef short rib soup whenever you like. Enjoy every last bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While beef short ribs are my favorite for this French onion beef short rib soup, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as other cuts might require more or less time to become tender.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just brown the short ribs and sauté the onions on the stovetop first. Then transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the broth and wine, and cook on low for about 6-8 hours. It’s a great way to let the flavors meld together while you go about your day!

What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?
If you can’t find Gruyère, no worries! Swiss cheese or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can work well too. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, but it’ll still be delicious!

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this French onion beef short rib soup can easily be made gluten-free! Just make sure to choose a gluten-free broth and use gluten-free French bread or omit the bread altogether if needed.

How do I store leftovers?
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Just follow the storage instructions I provided earlier to keep it fresh and tasty!

"As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases."

You might also like it

Vegan Garlic Chickpea Soup Recipe: 5 Ways to Savor It

Japanese Soup Recipes: 5 Ways to Nourish Your Soul

Crock Pot Butternut Squash Soup: 7 Flavorful Secrets to Love

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.