French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup – Rich & Savory

Few dishes can match the deep, savory comfort of French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup. Combining the rich, caramelized sweetness of traditional French onion soup with the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of braised beef short ribs, this dish is the perfect balance of luxury and rustic charm. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly nights or special occasions.

The origins of French onion soup date back to 18th-century France, where it was known as a simple peasant dish made with inexpensive onions and stale bread. Over time, it evolved into a gastronomic icon, celebrated for its deep umami flavors and cheesy, gratinéed top. By incorporating beef short ribs, this recipe elevates the dish further, adding richness, complexity, and heartiness that transform it from an appetizer into a show-stopping main course.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• The history and transformation of French onion soup
• Why beef short ribs enhance the traditional recipe
• A step-by-step guide to making the perfect soup
• Expert tips & tricks for achieving the best flavors
• Creative variations to suit different dietary needs
• The best pairings for a well-rounded meal
• Proper storage and reheating techniques

Whether you’re a home cook looking to impress guests or simply craving an ultra-comforting bowl of soup, this recipe delivers the ultimate combination of deep flavors, soft meat, and crispy, cheesy goodness.

Ready to dive into this irresistible dish? Let’s start with the history of French Onion Soup and how it became a culinary staple.

The Rich History of French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

How French Onion Soup Became a Classic Comfort Dish

French onion soup dates back to at least the 18th century, though its roots can be traced even further to ancient Rome, where onion-based broths were commonly consumed by peasants. However, it was in France that this simple dish evolved into the rich, cheese-topped classic we know today.

Legend has it that the modern version of French onion soup was perfected in the Les Halles district of Paris, a bustling marketplace where vendors and workers sought affordable yet nourishing meals. Made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and stale bread, the soup was both economical and deeply satisfying. Over time, it was embraced by high-end Parisian bistros, where it was refined and topped with a bubbly, golden layer of melted cheese.

The gratinée topping—a crispy, cheesy crust achieved by broiling or baking the soup—became its signature feature, transforming it from a humble dish into a culinary masterpiece.

The Evolution of French Onion Soup with Beef Short Ribs

Today, French onion soup is a staple in fine dining restaurants and home kitchens alike, enjoyed across the world. It has inspired countless variations, from vegetarian adaptations to richer versions made with luxurious broths and slow-cooked meats.

One such modern adaptation is the French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup, which takes the traditional recipe and elevates it by incorporating succulent, fall-apart beef short ribs. This addition transforms the soup into a heartier, more indulgent meal, combining the depth of onion soup with the meaty richness of a slow-braised beef stew.

But why choose beef short ribs over other cuts? In the next section, we’ll explore how this specific cut of beef enhances the flavors and texture of the soup.

Why Beef Short Ribs Make This French Onion Soup Special

The Deep, Meaty Flavor of Beef Short Ribs in Onion Soup

Traditional French onion soup relies on a rich, beefy broth to balance the sweetness of caramelized onions. By adding beef short ribs, the dish gains an even deeper, more complex flavor. Short ribs are known for their high fat content and connective tissue, which break down during slow cooking, creating an ultra-rich, velvety broth.

Unlike leaner cuts of beef, short ribs release gelatin and collagen as they cook, giving the soup an unmatched silkiness. This results in a luxurious mouthfeel that enhances the entire dish, making it more satisfying and hearty.

How Short Ribs Add Richness to French Onion Soup with Beef

One of the best things about adding short ribs to French onion soup is the contrast in textures. The meat becomes so tender that it effortlessly falls apart with a spoon, blending beautifully with the soft, caramelized onions.

Here’s what short ribs contribute to the soup:

• Silky, deeply flavored broth – The marrow and fat from the ribs create a broth that’s much more flavorful than store-bought stock.
• Tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat – The slow-cooked beef adds a heartiness that turns the soup into a full meal rather than just an appetizer.
• Enhanced umami taste – The beef interacts with the caramelized onions and cheese, intensifying the overall flavor of the dish.

Why Short Ribs Are the Best Choice

While some recipes use brisket, chuck, or oxtail, short ribs stand out because they:

• Have the perfect balance of meat and fat, making them juicy and flavorful
• Cook beautifully in low and slow heat, allowing the flavors to develop gradually
• Are easy to shred, creating the perfect texture for soup

By using short ribs, you’re taking French onion soup to a whole new level, transforming it into an elegant, restaurant-quality dish.

In the next section, we’ll break down the essential ingredients needed to make this soup truly exceptional.

If you enjoy slow-braised dishes, you might also love this Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe, another dish that showcases deep, rich flavors through slow cooking.

Essential Ingredients for the Best French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Creating French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup requires high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavor and texture. Every element, from the beef to the cheese, plays a crucial role in building depth and richness.

Choosing the Right Beef Short Ribs for French Onion Soup

Not all short ribs are created equal! For the best results, look for:

Bone-in short ribs – The bones add extra flavor and collagen to the broth.
Well-marbled meat – More marbling means juicier, more tender short ribs.
Grass-fed beef (if possible) – Offers a more natural and robust taste.

🔹 Pro Tip: Ask your butcher for flanken-style short ribs if you prefer more meat, or English-cut short ribs for larger, slow-braised pieces.

The Best Onions, Broth, and Cheese for Beef Short Rib Soup

The onions are the heart of this dish, so choosing the right variety is crucial. The best options include:

Yellow onions – The most traditional choice, balancing sweetness and savoriness.
Sweet onions (Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui) – Perfect for a milder, sweeter soup.
Red onions – Add a bolder, more intense flavor.

🔹 Pro Tip: Mix different onion varieties for a more complex flavor profile.

Selecting the Right Broth and Seasonings

Homemade beef stock – The best choice for a rich, umami-packed base.
Store-bought beef broth – Choose a low-sodium version for better control over seasoning.
Red wine – Enhances depth and adds complexity to the soup.
Fresh thyme & bay leaves – Essential for herbal warmth.
Garlic – Boosts savory depth.
Balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce – Adds a subtle tanginess to balance the richness.

🔹 Pro Tip: If using store-bought broth, simmer it with roasted bones for extra flavor.

Bread and Cheese Pairing for the Perfect Topping

A classic French onion soup isn’t complete without a cheesy, golden-brown crust. The right bread and cheese are key to getting that perfect gratinéed top.

✔ Bread: Choose crusty French baguette or sourdough – they hold up well in the soup.
✔ Cheese:

• Gruyère – The gold standard for French onion soup.
• Comté – A slightly nutty alternative.
• Fontina or Provolone – For a milder, creamy melt.

🔹 Pro Tip: Toast the bread slices before topping the soup to prevent sogginess.

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, it’s time to cook the soup step by step. In the next section, we’ll walk through the entire process, from preparing the short ribs to achieving that perfect cheesy crust.

For another cheese-lover’s delight, check out this Cheese Stuffed Garlic Naan Recipe, perfect for pairing with rich, savory dishes!

Step-by-Step Recipe for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together with a detailed step-by-step recipe. This method ensures that the short ribs are tender, the onions are perfectly caramelized, and the broth is rich and flavorful.

🕒 Total Time: ~4 Hours

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3.5 hours
• Servings: 6

📝 Ingredients

For the Short Ribs:

3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
smoked paprika (optional)
garlic powder
1 cup red wine (Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
4 cups beef broth (preferably homemade)
2 bay leaves
3 sprigs fresh thyme

Caramelizing Onions to Perfection for the Ultimate Soup:

4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sugar (helps caramelization)
½ tsp salt
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or Worcestershire sauce)

Assembling and Serving Your French Onion Soup with Short Ribs:

1 additional cup beef broth (for adjusting consistency)
Dijon mustard (adds depth)
1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

🥘 How to Prepare Beef Short Ribs for French Onion Soup

1️⃣ Season the Ribs:

• Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels.
• Generously season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

2️⃣ Sear the Ribs:

• Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Sear the short ribs on all sides until they are deeply browned (~4 minutes per side).
• Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Deglaze the Pot:

• Pour in 1 cup red wine, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom.
• Allow it to simmer for 2 minutes to evaporate the alcohol.

4️⃣ Braise the Ribs:

• Return the seared short ribs to the pot.
• Pour in 4 cups beef broth, and add bay leaves & thyme.
• Cover and simmer on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is fall-apart tender.

🔹 Alternative Cooking Methods:
✔ Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
✔ Pressure Cooker: Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, then natural release.

🧅 Caramelizing the Onions

1️⃣ Melt the Butter:

• In a separate large pan, melt 3 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.

2️⃣ Cook the Onions:

• Add thinly sliced onions and stir to coat them in butter.
• Cook on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

3️⃣ Caramelize Slowly:

• After 15 minutes, add 1 tsp sugar and ½ tsp salt.
• Continue cooking for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden brown.

4️⃣ Add Garlic & Vinegar:

• Stir in minced garlic and balsamic vinegar.
• Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove from heat.

🔹 Pro Tip: If the onions start to burn, add a splash of water and lower the heat.

🍲 Combining Everything into the Soup

1️⃣ Shred the Beef:

• Once the short ribs are fall-apart tender, remove them from the pot.
• Discard bones and shred the meat with two forks.

2️⃣ Strain the Broth:

• Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
• Skim off any excess fat from the top.

3️⃣ Assemble the Soup:

• Return the shredded beef and caramelized onions to the broth.
• Stir in 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for extra depth.
• Simmer for 10 more minutes, adding extra beef broth if needed.

🧀 Creating the Cheesy Gratinée Topping

1️⃣ Toast the Bread:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, until crisp.

2️⃣ Ladle the Soup:

• Pour the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.

3️⃣ Add the Bread & Cheese:

• Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl.
• Sprinkle generously with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.

4️⃣ Broil Until Golden:

• Place bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

🔹 Pro Tip: Watch carefully while broiling to prevent burning!

🥄 Serve & Enjoy!

• Let the soup cool slightly before serving (it will be very hot!).
• Garnish with fresh thyme or chopped parsley.
• Serve with extra toasted bread on the side.

🔥 The result? A bowl of deeply rich, meaty, and cheesy goodness that takes French onion soup to the next level.

Now that we’ve mastered the recipe, let’s explore cooking tips & tricks to make it even better!

Cooking Tips & Tricks for the Best French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Mastering French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup requires patience and technique. Here are some expert tips to ensure perfect caramelization, tender beef, and the ultimate cheesy crust.

🥘 Perfecting the Cheesy Crust on French Onion Short Rib Soup

Caramelized onions are the soul of this soup. If done right, they provide an irresistibly sweet and savory depth.

Use the right onions: Yellow onions are traditional, but mixing sweet and red onions enhances the complexity.
Low and slow is key: Cook over medium-low heat for at least 45 minutes to develop deep flavor.
Avoid overcrowding the pan: If the onions are too packed, they’ll steam instead of caramelizing.
Deglaze when needed: If the onions start to stick, add a splash of broth, wine, or water to lift the browned bits.
Don’t rush it! Stir occasionally, but let the onions develop deep golden color naturally.

🔹 Pro Tip: Adding a pinch of baking soda speeds up caramelization, but use sparingly to avoid a mushy texture.

🍖 How to Make Beef Short Ribs Extra Tender

Since short ribs are a tough cut of meat, they require low and slow cooking to become fall-apart tender.

Sear first for maximum flavor: Browning the ribs before braising creates a deeper, richer taste.
Cook for at least 3 hours: The connective tissues need time to break down.
Use red wine in the braise: It enhances the broth’s umami and depth.
Shred the meat thoroughly: Large chunks of beef may overpower the soup’s texture.
Skim off excess fat: Short ribs release a lot of fat, so remove the top layer for a cleaner broth.

🔹 Pro Tip: If the broth still feels too rich, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance it out.

🧀 The Best Cheese for a Golden, Bubbly Crust

The cheese topping makes this soup legendary. Here’s how to get the perfect gratinée:

Use Gruyère for authenticity: It melts beautifully and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Mix in Parmesan for extra sharpness: This adds a deeper, savory kick.
Broil at high heat: Set your oven to 500°F (260°C) for 2-3 minutes until the cheese bubbles.
Watch closely: Cheese can burn quickly, so keep a close eye!
Use oven-safe bowls: This allows the cheese to melt evenly over the edges.

🔹 Pro Tip: For an extra crispy topping, double-layer the bread and cheese.

🥄 Slow Cooking vs. Pressure Cooking Beef Short Ribs for Soup

Not sure which cooking method to use? Here’s a quick comparison:

🔹 Pro Tip: If using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, caramelize the onions separately before adding them to the broth for maximum flavor.

Now that we’ve covered the best cooking techniques, let’s explore some variations and dietary adjustments to suit different preferences!

Variations and Dietary Adjustments

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is rich and indulgent, but it can be customized to fit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, low-carb, or vegetarian version, there’s an adaptation for you!

🥖 Making It Gluten-Free

Traditional French onion soup is served with toasted bread, but if you’re gluten-sensitive, you can still enjoy this dish by making a few substitutions:

✔ Use gluten-free bread: Opt for a crusty gluten-free baguette or a sturdy country-style loaf.
✔ Choose gluten-free Worcestershire sauce: Many brands contain barley malt, so look for a certified gluten-free option.
✔ Thicken with cornstarch instead of flour: If you prefer a slightly thicker broth, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

🔹 Pro Tip: Some pre-made beef broths contain gluten—always check the label!

🥩 Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly Modifications

Want to enjoy this soup while staying low-carb? These tweaks will help:

✔ Skip the bread entirely: Instead of a baguette, top with just melted cheese or use a low-carb chaffle (cheese waffle).
✔ Reduce the onions slightly: While onions are naturally high in carbs, using half the amount and caramelizing them longer can maximize flavor.
✔ Use bone broth instead of regular stock: It adds collagen and protein while keeping carbs low.
✔ Choose a higher-fat cheese: Gruyère and aged cheddar are great options for a keto-friendly gratinée.

🔹 Pro Tip: Serve with a side of roasted cauliflower instead of bread for extra texture.

🍄 Vegetarian Adaptation

While this soup is meat-heavy, you can make a delicious plant-based version without losing its signature depth and richness.

✔ Swap beef short ribs for mushrooms: Use a mix of portobello, shiitake, and cremini mushrooms to mimic the umami depth of beef.
✔ Use vegetable broth with miso paste: The combination of slow-simmered veggie broth and miso adds a savory, umami punch.
✔ Caramelize onions in butter or olive oil: The same slow-cooking technique applies!
✔ Add lentils or chickpeas: These help provide protein and texture to replace the shredded beef.

🔹 Pro Tip: If you want extra depth, add a splash of tamari or coconut aminos to replicate the meaty flavor.

🍖 Alternative Meat Options

If short ribs aren’t available, or you want to try a different cut, here are some great alternatives:

🔹 Pro Tip: If using leaner cuts, add extra butter or olive oil to keep the broth rich and silky.

Now that we’ve explored customization options, let’s move on to the best pairings to serve with this decadent soup!

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Your Soup

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is rich, savory, and deeply satisfying on its own, but the right pairings can make the meal even more special. Whether you’re looking for a perfect wine match, a complementary side dish, or a light dessert, here’s what pairs best with this decadent soup.

🍷 Best Wines to Complement the Rich Flavors

The deep umami richness of the soup pairs beautifully with full-bodied red wines that can stand up to the beef and caramelized onions.

Cabernet Sauvignon – Bold tannins balance the fattiness of the short ribs.
Merlot – Smooth and fruit-forward, enhancing the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Syrah (Shiraz) – Peppery and dark-fruited, bringing out the brothy depth of the soup.
Pinot Noir – A lighter, earthy option that still complements the beefy umami.
Beaujolais or Gamay – If you prefer a fruitier, slightly lighter red wine.

🔹 Pro Tip: If you’d rather have a white wine, go for a rich, full-bodied Chardonnay with oaky notes!

🥖 Side Dishes That Enhance the Meal

Since French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is rich and hearty, it pairs well with lighter, crispier, or fresh side dishes that offer contrast.

Easy Roasted Broccoli and Carrots – A light, healthy contrast to the richness of the soup.

Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – Refreshing and slightly peppery.

🥗 Light & Refreshing Sides

Arugula & Parmesan Salad – The peppery greens cut through the richness.
Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad – Adds a crisp, slightly sweet contrast.
Simple Mixed Greens with Lemon Vinaigrette – A classic, refreshing choice.

🥔 Hearty Sides for a Bigger Meal

Garlic & Herb Roasted Potatoes – Crispy, golden, and a perfect starchy complement.
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Butter – Fresh and slightly acidic to balance the soup’s richness.
Truffle Parmesan Fries – A luxurious pairing for extra indulgence.

🔹 Pro Tip: Avoid overly creamy sides like mashed potatoes, as they might overwhelm the soup’s texture.

🍮 Light Desserts to Finish the Meal

Since this soup is quite rich, finishing with a light, subtly sweet dessert is the best way to round out the meal.

Classic French Madeleines – Soft, buttery, and perfect with tea.
Lemon Sorbet – Cleanses the palate with a bright citrusy finish.
Dark Chocolate Mousse – Light yet decadent, pairing well with the wine.
Berry Tart – A crispy crust with fresh fruit to contrast the deep flavors of the soup.
Almond Biscotti with Coffee – A simple, satisfying way to end the meal.

🔹 Pro Tip: Pair dessert with a small glass of Port, Cognac, or a dessert wine for an elegant touch!

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Proper storage and reheating will ensure that the soup remains rich, flavorful, and fresh without becoming greasy or losing texture.

🥶 How to Properly Store the Soup

Refrigerating (Best for Short-Term Storage)

Let the soup cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Keep the cheese-topped bread separate to prevent sogginess.

🔹 Pro Tip: Use a glass or BPA-free plastic container to avoid the soup absorbing fridge odors.

Freezing (For Long-Term Storage)

Remove the short ribs from the bone before freezing for easier reheating.
Keep in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Freeze in individual portions for easy meal prep.
Do not freeze with cheese or bread—add fresh toppings when reheating.

🔹 Pro Tip: Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

🔥 Best Methods for Reheating Without Losing Flavor

Stovetop Reheating (Best for Fresh Flavor & Texture)

Pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if it thickened in storage.
Heat for 5-7 minutes, until warmed through.

🔹 Pro Tip: If the broth looks too greasy, skim off excess fat before reheating.

Microwave Reheating (Quickest Method)

Use a microwave-safe bowl.
Heat in short 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming. Microwave for 2-3 minutes total, until hot.

🔹 Pro Tip: Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent splatters.

Oven Reheating (For the Cheese-Topped Version)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pour the reheated soup into oven-safe bowls.
Place a fresh toasted baguette slice on top, sprinkle with cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly.

🔹 Pro Tip: Always toast the bread fresh to maintain the signature crispy texture!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does French onion soup take so long?

French onion soup requires slow caramelization of onions, which takes at least 45 minutes to an hour to achieve a deep, golden-brown color. Rushing this step results in a lack of depth and sweetness. Additionally, when using beef short ribs, the slow braising process takes 3-4 hours to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful.

🔹 Pro Tip: If short on time, you can use a pressure cooker to speed up the beef cooking process, but onions must still be caramelized slowly for the best taste.

How many days is French onion soup good for?

Properly stored in an airtight container, French onion soup stays fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. When frozen, it remains fresh for up to 3 months. However, the cheese and bread topping should always be added fresh for the best texture.

🔹 Pro Tip: To revive day-old soup, skim off any excess fat and reheat slowly on the stovetop for the best consistency.

How long does it take beef short ribs to get tender?

Short ribs need at least 3 to 4 hours of slow braising to fully break down connective tissues and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. If using a slow cooker, it takes 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. In an Instant Pot, they become tender in 45 minutes under high pressure, followed by a natural release.

🔹 Pro Tip: The longer the ribs cook at a low temperature, the richer and more gelatinous the broth becomes!

Why is French onion soup dark?

The deep brown color of French onion soup comes from the slow caramelization of onions, which naturally develop a rich, golden-brown hue. Additionally, the dark broth is achieved by using beef stock, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce—all of which add a deep umami color and flavor.

🔹 Pro Tip: If your soup looks too light, your onions likely weren’t caramelized enough—let them cook longer for a richer color!

Conclusion

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the sweet, caramelized depth of classic French onion soup with the rich, meaty tenderness of slow-braised beef short ribs. Every spoonful delivers a harmonious balance of umami flavors, velvety broth, and the irresistible crunch of toasted bread topped with golden, bubbly cheese.

By following this detailed step-by-step guide, you’ve learned:

The history of French onion soup and how it evolved into this modern, meatier version.
Why beef short ribs enhance the soup with incredible richness and texture.
The best ingredients for a deeply flavorful broth and perfect gratinée topping.
Cooking tips and techniques to ensure tender meat, perfect caramelization, and a balanced broth.
Dietary adaptations for gluten-free, keto-friendly, and vegetarian versions.
The best pairings to elevate your dining experience, from wine choices to side dishes.
How to store and reheat leftovers without losing flavor or texture.

This soup is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of French bistro elegance to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this dish will impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying richness.

Now it’s time to grab a spoon, toast some fresh baguette slices, and enjoy this decadent bowl of goodness. Bon appétit! 🇫🇷🥄

French Onion Short Rib Soup – Rich, Savory & Comforting

French Onion Short Rib Soup takes the classic French onion soup to the next level by adding tender, braised beef short ribs. Slow-cooked to perfection, the deep, umami-rich broth is infused with caramelized onions, red wine, and fresh herbs, then topped with crusty bread and melted Gruyère cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for cold nights, special occasions, or when you’re craving something truly hearty and indulgent!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs

Course Soup, Main Course

Cuisine French

Servings 6

Calories 580 kcal

Equipment

• ✔ Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot
• ✔ Wooden spoon (for stirring onions)
• ✔ Sharp knife (for slicing onions and trimming short ribs)
• ✔ Ladle (for serving)
• ✔ Oven-safe soup bowls (for broiling the cheese topping)
• ✔ Baking sheet (for toasting bread)
• ✔ Broiler or oven (for melting the cheese)

Ingredients

  

• For the Short Ribs & Broth:
• ✔ 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
• ✔ 2 tbsp olive oil
• ✔ Salt & black pepper to taste
• ✔ 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
• ✔ 1 tsp garlic powder
• ✔ 1 cup red wine Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon
• ✔ 4 cups beef broth preferably homemade
• ✔ 2 bay leaves
• ✔ 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• For the Caramelized Onions:
• ✔ 4 large yellow onions thinly sliced
• ✔ 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• ✔ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ✔ 1 tsp sugar to enhance caramelization
• ✔ ½ tsp salt
• ✔ 3 cloves garlic minced
• ✔ 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
• For the Soup Assembly:
• ✔ 1 additional cup beef broth for adjusting consistency
• ✔ 1 tbsp Dijon mustard adds depth
• ✔ 1 baguette sliced into ½-inch rounds
• ✔ 2 cups Gruyère cheese shredded
• ✔ ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Prepare the Beef Short Ribs
• 1️⃣ Season the ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• 2️⃣ Sear the short ribs in a Dutch oven with olive oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides (~4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
• 3️⃣ Deglaze the pot by adding red wine, scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
• 4️⃣ Braise the ribs by adding beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Cover and simmer for 3-4 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
• 🔹 Pro Tip: Use a slow cooker (8 hours on low) or pressure cooker (45 minutes on high pressure) for faster results.
• Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
• 1️⃣ Melt butter with olive oil in a separate large pan over medium-low heat.
• 2️⃣ Add sliced onions and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• 3️⃣ Add sugar & salt, then continue cooking for 45 minutes, stirring often, until deep golden brown.
• 4️⃣ Stir in garlic & balsamic vinegar, cooking for 2 more minutes.
• 🔹 Pro Tip: If onions start to burn, add a splash of water and lower the heat.
• Step 3: Assemble the Soup
• 1️⃣ Shred the beef and remove bones from the short ribs.
• 2️⃣ Strain the broth, removing bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
• 3️⃣ Return the shredded beef and caramelized onions to the broth.
• 4️⃣ Stir in Dijon mustard and let simmer for 10 more minutes.
• Step 4: Prepare the Cheesy Topping
• 1️⃣ Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• 2️⃣ Toast the baguette slices on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes.
• 3️⃣ Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, place a toasted bread slice on top, and sprinkle with Gruyère and Parmesan.
• 4️⃣ Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
• Let cool slightly before serving.
• Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with extra toasted bread on the side.

Notes

✔ If the soup becomes too rich, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Freeze the soup without the bread and cheese for up to 3 months.

Keyword French onion short rib soup, beef short rib soup, caramelized onion soup, French onion soup with beef, cheesy onion soup, braised beef soup