French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Warm, hearty, and loaded with rich flavors, French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is the ultimate comfort dish. Perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings, this soup brings together tender short ribs, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese for a meal that’s indulgent yet satisfying. Whether it’s a chilly night or a festive occasion, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth and caramelized onions creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Comforting Dish: Ideal for chilly nights, this soup warms the soul and satisfies hunger.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can create a gourmet meal without fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter or main dish; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Impressive Presentation: Topped with cheese and toasted bread, it looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup effectively, having the right tools on hand is essential for achieving the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution for perfect caramelization of onions.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while allowing you to scrape up flavorful bits from the bottom.

Ingredients

Warm, hearty, and loaded with rich flavors, French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is the ultimate comfort dish. The tender short ribs, caramelized onions, and melted cheese combine for a meal that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs: Bone-in for maximum flavor.
– 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star of French onion soup!
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For caramelizing the onions.
– 1 tablespoon olive oil: To sear the short ribs.
– 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds depth to the broth.
– 6 cups beef broth: Use high-quality broth for the best flavor.
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory notes.
– 1 bay leaf: For a subtle herbal aroma.
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme.
– Salt and pepper, to taste: To season.
– 6 slices of baguette or crusty bread: Toasted.
– 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully over the soup.

How to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs

• Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
• Season short ribs with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot.
• Sear all sides until browned (about 4–5 minutes per side). Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

• In the same pot, add unsalted butter. Once melted, add sliced onions.
• Cook onions on medium heat until they turn golden brown (about 20–25 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

• Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Return short ribs to the pot along with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

• Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 3 hours until ribs are tender.

Step 5: Prepare Toasted Bread

• While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to broil.
• Place slices of baguette on a baking sheet and broil until golden brown on both sides (watch closely).

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

• Discard bay leaf from the soup. Ladle soup into bowls topped with toasted bread and shredded cheese.
• Place under broiler briefly until cheese melts. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup!

How to Serve French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Serving French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Toasted baguette slices complement the soup’s richness and provide a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle extra shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese on top and broil until bubbly for an indulgent finish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness to each bowl.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove for a quick meal during busy weekdays.

How to Perfect French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

To ensure your French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose quality meat: Using high-quality beef short ribs will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your soup.
• Caramelize onions slowly: Take your time when cooking the onions; slow caramelization brings out their natural sweetness.
• Deglaze the pot: After searing the ribs, pour in a splash of beef broth to loosen any flavorful bits stuck to the pot.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Add salt and pepper gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
• Use homemade broth: If possible, make your own beef broth for a richer flavor profile in your soup.
• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 30 minutes after cooking can deepen the flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Pairing side dishes with your French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Simple Green Salad
2. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the rich soup.
3. Garlic Bread
4. Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
5. Roasted Vegetables
6. Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the hearty flavors of the soup.
7. Potato Wedges
8. Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that pairs well with soup.
9. Cheese Platter
10. A selection of cheeses alongside crackers can enhance the meal and provide variety.
11. Stuffed Mushrooms
12. Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and breadcrumbs offer a delicious bite-sized treat alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup from good to great. Here are a few key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not caramelizing onions enough: Inadequate caramelization can lead to a bland soup. Take your time cooking the onions until they’re deep golden brown for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor broth can ruin the taste of your dish. Always opt for high-quality beef broth to enhance the rich flavors of the soup.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season properly can result in a flat soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause uneven cooking. Sear the short ribs in batches if necessary to ensure they brown nicely.
• Ignoring resting time: Not allowing the soup to rest before serving can diminish its flavors. Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking for a more cohesive taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

• Freeze in individual portions or family-sized containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup.

Can I use other types of meat?

You can substitute beef short ribs with lamb or turkey for different flavor profiles while maintaining the richness of the dish.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace beef broth with vegetable broth and omit short ribs. Use mushrooms for added depth.

What is the focus keyphrase of this recipe?

The focus keyphrase is French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup, which highlights this delicious comfort food.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

The total time required is about 3 hours and 20 minutes, including both prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and rich flavors. This versatile dish can be customized with different meats or even made vegetarian by adjusting ingredients. We encourage you to try it and make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately six servings 1x

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Description

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is the epitome of comfort food, boasting a rich, savory broth filled with tender short ribs and sweet caramelized onions. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, providing warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Topped with gooey melted cheese and served with crusty bread, it’s a dish that not only delights the palate but also impresses visually. Simple to prepare yet gourmet in taste, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs beef short ribs
• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 slices of baguette or crusty bread, toasted
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

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Instructions

1. Sear the short ribs: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper; sear until browned on all sides (about 4–5 minutes per side). Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Caramelize onions: In the same pot, melt unsalted butter. Add sliced onions and cook on medium heat until golden brown (about 20–25 minutes), stirring occasionally.
3. Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute. Return short ribs to the pot, adding beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
4. Simmer the soup: Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 3 hours or until ribs are tender.
5. Prepare toasted bread: Preheat oven to broil. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet; broil until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve: Discard bay leaf from soup. Ladle into bowls topped with toasted bread and shredded cheese; place under broiler briefly until cheese melts.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 960mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg