Go Back
Bowl of French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup topped with melted cheese and herbs
Print Recipe

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

A soul-warming soup combining tender beef short ribs, sweet caramelized onions, and aromatic herbs, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time3 hours
Total Time3 hours 30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: French
Keyword: Beef Soup, comfort food, Family Meal, French Onion Soup, Hearty Soup
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 425kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 lbs bone-in beef short ribs Tender cuts rich in flavor.
  • 4 piece yellow onions, thinly sliced Sweet and aromatic.
  • 2 piece shallots, sliced Enhances the onion flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped Adds essential flavor.
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves Brightens the soup.
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese Creamy cheese that melts into the soup.
  • 1/2 cup tamari or low-sodium soy sauce Offers savory umami flavor.
  • 6-8 cups low-sodium chicken broth Base of the soup.
  • 6 tbsp salted butter Adds richness.
  • 2 tbsp chopped sage Enhances complexity.
  • 2 cups baby carrots Adds color and texture.
  • 2 piece bay leaves Adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 piece star anise (optional) Adds warmth and spice.
  • to taste red chili flakes Adjust for heat.
  • to taste black pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 6 slices French bread Crispy base for cheese topping.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • In a Dutch oven, melt 6 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onions and cook for 10 minutes until golden brown.
  • Stir in the shallots, garlic, thyme, sage, and red chili flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Introduce the beef short ribs, ensuring they are coated with the onion mixture.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and tamari. Add bay leaves and star anise if using.
  • Cover the pot and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours.

Finishing

  • Add baby carrots during the last 1-2 hours of baking.
  • Remove from oven and take out the bay leaves and ribs. Shred the beef and return it to the pot.
  • Simmer the mixture on the stovetop and adjust seasoning with black pepper.
  • For cheesy toast, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and toast the French bread for 10 minutes.
  • Top each slice with Gruyère cheese and broil till melted.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with cheesy toast, garnished with fresh thyme.

Notes

For added flavor, sear the short ribs before adding onions. Adjust red chili flakes for heat. Always taste before serving for final adjustments.