French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Why You’ll Love French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: The French onion and beef short ribs create a rich, savory base that’s perfect for cozying up with.

• Hearty and filling: Thanks to the beef short ribs, this soup is not only delicious but also filling, making it a complete meal.

• Rich and flavorful: The caramelized onions add a deep, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef and broth.

• Easy to make: Despite the complex flavors, the recipe is relatively simple, requiring slow cooking to bring out all the best tastes.

• Perfect for special occasions or everyday dinners: Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this soup is versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef short ribs

• 3 medium onions, thinly sliced

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

• 2 cups French bread, cubed (for garnish)

• 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sear the beef short ribs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

2. Caramelize the onions: In the same pot, add butter and sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.

3. Add garlic and deglaze: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce for a few minutes.

4. Simmer the soup: Return the beef short ribs to the pot. Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and falls off the bone.

5. Finish the soup: Remove the short ribs from the pot and shred the meat. Return the shredded beef to the soup and discard the bones and bay leaf.

6. Prepare the garnishes: Toast the cubed French bread in the oven until golden and crispy. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with the toasted bread, and sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère cheese.

7. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy your delicious French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 2.5-3 hours

• Total time: Approximately 3 hours

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef short ribs and use vegetable broth. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted root vegetables to create a satisfying vegetarian option.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the soup to give it a bit of heat.

• Herb Variations: While thyme is a great choice, you can experiment with rosemary or sage for a different herb flavor profile.

• Cheese Options: If Gruyère is unavailable, you can substitute with Swiss cheese or even mozzarella for a gooey, melty topping.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth to loosen it up if needed. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How do I get the beef short ribs tender?

Slow cooking the beef ribs in the soup allows the meat to become tender and fall off the bone. The longer you cook, the more tender the beef will become.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can! After browning the beef and caramelizing the onions, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender.

Is the wine necessary in this recipe?

The wine adds depth and complexity to the flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer not to use alcohol. Use additional beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar as an alternative.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What bread works best for this recipe?

A crusty French bread or baguette works well, but you can also use sourdough or any other bread with a firm texture that will hold up when toasted and topped with cheese.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Gruyère is the classic choice for French onion soup, but Swiss cheese or even provolone can work as well.

How long should I cook the beef short ribs?

Cook the beef for about 2.5 to 3 hours on a simmer until the meat is fork-tender and falls off the bone.

Is it okay to add extra onions?

If you love caramelized onions, feel free to add more! They add a wonderful sweetness to the soup.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen and meld together, making it even better the next day.

Can I skip the garnish with bread and cheese?

If you’re watching carbs or avoiding dairy, you can serve the soup without the bread and cheese. It’s still delicious as is!

Conclusion

This French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold nights or any time you’re craving something rich and satisfying. With tender beef, caramelized onions, and a delicious broth, this soup is a guaranteed hit at your dinner table. Plus, the added layer of cheese and toasted bread makes it even more indulgent. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warming, flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!