Why You’ll Love This French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors deepen as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep or reheating later.
- Rich and Hearty: A soul-satisfying blend of tender beef and caramelized onions in a savory broth.
- Elevated Comfort Food: Takes classic French onion soup to a whole new level with the addition of beef short ribs.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Impress your guests with this gourmet yet approachable dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cheese grater
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Description
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup. This recipe combines the deep, savory flavors of caramelized onions, tender beef short ribs, and rich broth, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or as a showstopper at your next gathering, this soup is a must-try!
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef short ribs: Adds richness and depth to the soup.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the beef and onions.
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star ingredient for that sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: For a slightly thickened broth.
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium): To deglaze the pan and add more beefy flavor.
- 4 cups beef stock: Creates the rich, savory base of the soup.
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme: For an herbal, aromatic note.
- 2 bay leaves: Enhances the complexity of the broth.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Balances the flavors.
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted: For serving, to mimic the classic bread topping.
- 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the bread.
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef Short Ribs
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
3. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
4. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 30 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
6. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
7. Deglaze the pot with 1 cup of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
8. Return the beef short ribs to the pot, then add the remaining beef stock, thyme, and bay leaves.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
9. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the short ribs are tender and the flavors are well-developed.
10. Remove the short ribs, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the shredded meat to the soup.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
11. Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and top each slice with shredded cheese.
12. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
13. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the cheesy baguette slices. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy flavors.
Notes
- Patience with Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions; it’s worth it for the depth of flavor.
- Use Quality Stock: A good-quality beef stock makes all the difference.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Cuisine: American
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
- To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then freeze without the bread topping for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes! After searing the beef and caramelizing the onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Q2: What can I use instead of Gruyère?
Mozzarella, Swiss, or even sharp cheddar are great alternatives.
Q3: Can I skip the flour?
Yes, but the flour helps to give the soup a slightly thicker, silkier texture.
A Cozy Classic with a Gourmet Twist!
This French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is the perfect blend of rustic comfort and elegant flavor. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re hosting a special dinner, this recipe is sure to delight. Gather your loved ones, serve up a bowl, and enjoy every savory, cheesy bite!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Serves: 6
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this comforting dish and share your experience in the comments below!