Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at Outback Steakhouse, you know their French Onion Soup is nothing short of legendary. This comforting, cheesy, and deeply flavorful soup is a classic that warms both the heart and the soul. Today, I’m sharing an authentic Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe that you can easily make at home with simple ingredients and a little patience. It’s a perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you crave something rich and savory. Let’s dive in and bring a taste of Outback to your kitchen!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What sets the Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe apart from your average French onion soup is the deep caramelization of the onions and the perfect cheese blend that melts to golden, bubbly perfection. The combination of olive oil and butter helps develop a rich base, and the addition of fresh thyme and Worcestershire sauce adds layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.

This soup isn’t just comforting—it’s an experience. Each spoonful delivers the sweet, slightly nutty flavor of caramelized onions, a savory beef broth that’s packed with umami, and the irresistible crunch and gooeyness of toasted baguette topped with two cheeses. If you love hearty soups and classic French cuisine, this recipe is a must-try.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with other hearty meals. For instance, if you’re planning a cozy night in, this soup works wonderfully alongside a slow-cooked roast. In fact, if you want to try something equally succulent, check out this Garlic Herb Butter Crockpot Pot Roast recipe—it’s a perfect main dish to complement your soup.

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 French baguette, sliced
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

How To Make Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating the olive oil and butter together in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the thinly sliced onions. Stir frequently and cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the onions to caramelize and turn a deep golden brown. This step is crucial because it develops the soup’s signature sweetness and depth. Be patient and avoid rushing—perfect caramelization is the secret to a rich broth.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This adds an aromatic layer that elevates the flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the onions.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf along with Worcestershire sauce. Give everything a good stir to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—those bits are flavor gold! Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This lets all the ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Baguette Slices

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them for about 5-7 minutes until crisp and golden. These toasted slices will be the perfect base for your melted cheese topping.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls or crocks. Place one or two toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl, then generously sprinkle the shredded Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses over the bread. Place the bowls under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the bowls from the oven—they will be hot! Let them cool for a minute or two, then serve your homemade Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe piping hot. The combination of sweet onions, savory broth, and melted cheese is pure comfort in a bowl.

Expert Tips

• Take your time caramelizing the onions: Rushing this step can result in bitter or underdeveloped flavors. Stir frequently and be patient.
• Use good-quality beef broth: The broth is the base of your soup, so choose a rich, flavorful variety or make your own for the best results.
• Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce: It adds a subtle umami boost that deepens the flavor profile.
• For easy cleanup and serving: Use oven-safe soup crocks to broil the cheese topping directly on the soup.
• Customize your cheese blend: Gruyère is traditional, but a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella adds extra gooeyness and stretch.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian version: Substitute the beef broth with a rich mushroom or vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version.
• Herb variations: Add rosemary or sage along with thyme for a more complex herbal flavor.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a subtle heat.
• Cheese alternatives: Try Swiss or provolone cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread for the topping to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the soup separately from the toasted baguette slices to maintain their crunch. When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, then add fresh toasted baguette and cheese if desired. Avoid microwaving the soup with the bread and cheese topping, as it can become soggy and unevenly melted.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup (without bread and cheese) in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup base a day or two in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat, add the toasted bread and cheese, then broil until bubbly.

What can I use if I don’t have Gruyère cheese?

Gruyère is traditional and offers a nutty flavor, but Swiss cheese, Emmental, or even a mix of mozzarella and provolone can work well as substitutes.

Is it necessary to use fresh thyme?

Fresh thyme adds a bright, herbal note, but dried thyme can be used as well. Use about one-third of the amount if substituting dried for fresh.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, omit the butter and cheese. Use olive oil for cooking the onions and consider topping the soup with dairy-free cheese alternatives or simply serve without the cheese topping.

Conclusion

Making the Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup Recipe at home is a delightful way to enjoy a restaurant favorite with your own personal touch. With a handful of simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a deeply flavorful, cheesy, and comforting soup that rivals any steakhouse’s version. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a cozy meal on its own, this soup is guaranteed to impress. So grab your onions, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor every delicious spoonful!

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