French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup

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Introduction

Warm up with this savory and comforting French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup. Combining the rich, caramelized flavors of traditional French onion soup with tender beef and hearty noodles, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a satisfying meal. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Origin and Cultural Significance

French onion soup is a classic that dates back to the 18th century in France. Traditionally made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with melted cheese over crusty bread, it’s a comforting dish with deep, rich flavors. By adding beef and noodles, this recipe brings a heartier twist to the original, making it a full meal that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.

Ingredients Quantity

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup:

For the Soup Base:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine (optional, substitute with extra broth)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves

For the Beef and Noodles:

  • 1 lb beef chuck or sirloin, thinly sliced or cubed
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Optional Toppings:

  • Crusty bread slices
  • Extra cheese for broiling

Optional Additions

Add a personal touch to your soup with these optional ingredients:

  • Herb Garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme for added freshness.
  • Extra Vegetables: Sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
  • Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes to add some heat.

Tips for Success

  1. Slow Caramelization: Allowing the onions to caramelize slowly is key to developing the deep, rich flavor of the soup.
  2. Proper Beef Searing: Sear the beef until browned to lock in juices and add flavor to the soup.
  3. Even Noodle Cooking: Stir the noodles occasionally while cooking to ensure they don’t stick together.

Instructions (Method)

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25–30 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Reduce the heat if needed to avoid burning.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

  1. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  2. Add the beef broth, wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

  1. While the soup simmers, season the beef with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

  1. Add the egg noodles to the simmering soup and cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
  2. Stir in the cooked beef.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil (Optional)

  1. Preheat your broiler.
  2. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top with bread slices and a generous amount of cheese.
  3. Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Description

French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup is an upgrade to the classic French onion soup. The deeply caramelized onions are paired with seared beef and tender egg noodles, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Topped with melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese over crusty bread, this hearty soup delivers a comforting, satisfying meal in every bowl. Perfectly balanced and full of flavor, it’s a delightful way to warm up on a cold day.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: 450-500 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 8g

Conclusion and Recommendation

This French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup is a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting and flavorful meal. The combination of caramelized onions, tender beef, and hearty noodles makes it perfect for cold evenings or whenever you crave something rich and satisfying. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this soup is wonderfully indulgent, you can still enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. Use lean cuts of beef, low-sodium broth, and whole grain noodles to boost its nutritional value. Enjoying this hearty, flavorful soup in moderation allows you to savor its deliciousness while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

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