French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe – Simple Easy Meals
It’s a chilly evening. The kind where clouds hang low, and a brisk wind whispers through the trees. You stroll into the kitchen and catch a whiff of something warm and comforting bubbling on the stovetop. That’s right! It’s French onion soup.
Now, let’s combine that soup’s inviting flavors with the nostalgic goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. Sounds good? Welcome to the world of French onion soup grilled cheese sandwiches!
This recipe is an ode to comfort food. Mushy, cheesy sandwiches are nothing short of a hug on a plate, and adding the elements of French onion soup takes it to a whole new level. Here’s a dish that will coax a smile from even the grumpiest diner.
What is a French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
At its core, the French onion soup grilled cheese sandwich is a creative twist on two beloved classics. Take creamy, caramelized onions that have simmered in a rich broth, then grace them between slices of bread with oodles of melted cheese.
But hold on—this isn’t any sandwich. We’ll incorporate Gruyère cheese, known for its nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It is the perfect co-star to the onions, enhancing the overall experience.
This sandwich not only tastes delightful, but it also tells a story. Each bite resembles the warm bowl of soup you adore, with a crunchy exterior that invites you in. So, whether it’s a rainy day or you’re simply craving a cozy meal, this dish fits the bill.
Why You'll Love This French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese Sandwich
So, you’re still hanging in with me? Perfect, because there’s more to love! This French onion soup grilled cheese sandwich offers a rustic charm. The process of caramelizing onions takes a bit of time, yet it rewards you with deep, savory flavors.
When you take a bite, the combination of warm, melted cheese and tender onions creates a perfect dance of flavors on your palate.
Add in that garlic powder and fresh thyme from our ingredient list, and you’ll find an unexpected complexity that adds dimension. You might even think, “Why haven’t I made this before?”
More than taste, this sandwich provides nostalgia. It takes you back to those cozy dinners spent with family or friends. And the best part? The simplicity of making it allows even busy home cooks to whip it up on a whim.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ready to start cooking? Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 1 pound yellow or Vidalia onions, peeled, halved, and sliced thin
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, finely grated
- 4 slices of bread, cut to a thickness no greater than ½ inch
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar (or red-wine or white-wine vinegar, optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (for an earthy taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (to amplify the flavor)
These ingredients combine to create a filling meal that anyone can make at home.
Directions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start with the star of the show: the onions. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, toss in the onions. Stir consistently to ensure even cooking. You want the onions to caramelize slowly, taking about 25-30 minutes. Add a pinch of salt to help bring out the moisture.
As they cook, enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen. These sweet gems will transform from sharp and raw to deep brown and succulent. When they resemble golden perfection, stir in the vinegar and cook for another minute. Finally, set the onions aside in a bowl.
Step 2: Prep the Bread and Cheese
While the onions are cooling, let’s focus on the bread and cheese. Lay out your slices of bread and sprinkle an even amount of grated Gruyère onto two of the slices. Feel free to get a little extra cheesy here.
Add that heavenly onion mixture on top of the cheese, then pile more cheese on top. This stacking will create the perfect gooeyness that holds everything together!
Step 3: Build the Sandwich
Now, layer the remaining bread slices on top of your creations. Spread the remaining butter on the outer sides of the sandwich. This is crucial for getting that perfect crispy finish you desire.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
Heat the skillet over medium heat. Place your sandwiches in the pan. Cook until the bread is golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Carefully flip only when they have a lovely crust. You want the cheese to melt completely, so be patient if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Melt
Once both sides are golden, remove the sandwiches from the heat. Let them sit for a minute before slicing them in half. You want to avoid burning your mouth on that molten cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Here are some helpful tips as you dive into making this delightful sandwich:
- Use Quality Cheese: Gruyère reigns supreme here. For different flavors, consider Emmental or even sharp cheddar.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh thyme and sweet onions create a depth that dried ingredients can’t match.
- Grill on Low Heat: A slower grilling time will better melt the cheese without burning the bread.
- Basil or Other Herbs?: Feel free to experiment with herbs beyond thyme. Basil or oregano might add a fresh twist.
- Don’t Rush Onions: Patience is key! Allow those onions to truly caramelize to develop their fullest flavors.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Wrap each half of the sandwich in plastic wrap and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Carefully: To maintain the integrity of the sandwich, consider placing it in a skillet over low heat rather than using a microwave. This allows it to warm through without becoming soggy.
Nutrition Information
Knowing the nutritional value can be helpful. Here’s a rough estimate per sandwich (assuming the ingredients are used as directed for one serving):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
Every sandwich is filling and satisfying, perfect for an indulgent treat. Adjust ingredient amounts to suit your dietary needs if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Try pairing your French onion soup grilled cheese sandwich with:
- A Crisp Green Salad: Toss greens with a zingy dressing for balance.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing plays perfectly off the flavors.
- Roasted Veggies: Sweet roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts add delicious contrast.
- Potato Chips: For a bit of crunch, nothing beats the satisfying snap of chips.
- Pickles: Their acidity cuts through the richness beautifully.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Sometimes you need to get creative. Here are some substitutes you can try:
- Different Cheeses: Havarti or Mozzarella can bring their unique flavors to the mix.
- Vegetable Broth: If you want to avoid using beef broth for the onions, go with vegetable broth, and you’ll achieve a similar depth of flavor.
- Sourdough Bread: For a tangy twist, try using sourdough instead of regular bread.
- Caramelized Apples: For those who enjoy sweet and savory, thinly sliced caramelized apples layer beautifully with onions.
- Zucchini Slices: Thin slices can be pan-fried alongside the onions for added texture.
Conclusion
There you have it! The French onion soup grilled cheese sandwich combines nostalgia and flavor in a warm embrace. This dish delights the senses and warms the soul. Whether you whip it up for a cozy dinner, a casual lunch, or to impress guests, it’s a recipe destined to be a favorite.
With the simple fusion of two classic dishes, you become the artist in your kitchen, creating a masterpiece that will undoubtedly leave your family and friends raving. So put on your apron, gather those delicious ingredients, and let the magic happen. It's time to create your culinary masterpiece!
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Before we dive into the wonderfully cheesy adventure that is the French onion soup grilled cheese sandwich, let’s chat about pairing! Whether it's lunch or dinner, a few accompaniments can elevate your meal. A vibrant salad can add freshness. Consider a simple arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The peppery arugula perfectly offsets the richness of the sandwich.
A bowl of light tomato soup is another fantastic option. The acidity from the tomatoes complements the savory onions and gooey cheese. Feeling a bit fancy? Serve it with a glass of a dry white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc. It won’t overpower the flavors and adds a touch of elegance.Now, if you want something heartier, a side of crispy roasted potatoes will satisfy your hunger. Their crisp texture contrasts well against the melted cheese. And, of course, let’s not forget dessert—a simple dark chocolate square can be an irresistible finish to your meal.
- 1 pound yellow or Vidalia onions, peeled, halved, and sliced thin
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, finely grated
- 4 slices of bread, cut to a thickness no greater than ½ inch
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar, or red-wine or white-wine vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (for an earthy aroma)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (to enhance the flavor profile)
Start with the star of the show: the onions. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, toss in the onions. Stir consistently to ensure even cooking. You want the onions to caramelize slowly, taking about 25-30 minutes. Add a pinch of salt to help bring out the moisture.
As they cook, enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen. These sweet gems will transform from sharp and raw to deep brown and succulent. When they resemble golden perfection, stir in the vinegar and cook for another minute. Finally, set the onions aside in a bowl.
While the onions are cooling, let’s focus on the bread and cheese. Lay out your slices of bread and sprinkle an even amount of grated Gruyère onto two of the slices. Feel free to get a little extra cheesy here.
Add that heavenly onion mixture on top of the cheese, then pile more cheese on top. This stacking will create the perfect gooeyness that holds everything together!
- Now, layer the remaining bread slices on top of your creations. Spread the remaining butter on the outer sides of the sandwich. This is crucial for getting that perfect crispy finish you desire.
- Heat the skillet over medium heat. Place your sandwiches in the pan. Cook until the bread is golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Carefully flip only when they have a lovely crust. You want the cheese to melt completely, so be patient if needed.
- Once both sides are golden, remove the sandwiches from the heat. Let them sit for a minute before slicing them in half. You want to avoid burning your mouth on that molten cheese. Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 500kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Use Quality Cheese: Gruyère reigns supreme here. For different flavors, consider Emmental or even sharp cheddar.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh thyme and sweet onions create a depth that dried ingredients can’t match.
- Grill on Low Heat: A slower grilling time will better melt the cheese without burning the bread.
- Basil or Other Herbs?: Feel free to experiment with herbs beyond thyme. Basil or oregano might add a fresh twist.
- Don’t Rush Onions: Patience is key! Allow those onions to truly caramelize to develop their fullest flavors.
I'm Natasha Dunford, a registered dietitian from Rochelle Park, NJ, and the creator of Simple Easy Meals. My passion is helping busy individuals create delicious, nutritious meals that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Through my blog, I aim to simplify meal prep and inspire confidence in the kitchen!