French onion soup takes a while to make, but the wait is oh so worth it. Gooey cheese, crusty bread, and sweet caramelized onions in savory broth … yum. While you wait for those onions to caramelize (and simmer, and bake), you might start wondering what to serve with French onion soup.
This rich, hearty soup actually stands on its own quite nicely, but you can also pair it with a side for a more filling meal or serve small portions as an appetizer for big eaters.
What to Serve with French Onion Soup
Because French onion soup is so rich, you'll want to choose something light to go with it. To serve it as an appetizer, consider using smaller bowls so everyone doesn't fill up too quickly.
1. Salad
Traditionally, French onion soup is served with a green salad, something light and crisp to go alongside the rich beef broth and cheese. A barley apple walnut salad has nice autumnal vibes, while a green salad with beets is perfect for a winter meal.
2. Grilled chicken
French onion soup works well as an appetizer for a lean meat like grilled chicken, especially in spring or fall when the weather is nice enough for grilling outside but cool enough for soup. Similarly, you could also serve it with roasted or pan-cooked chicken.
3. Brussels sprouts
As a winter vegetable, Brussels sprouts go well with soup. And you have plenty of time while the French onion soup cooks to make a batch of roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts to serve alongside it. Though they have developed a bad reputation, Brussels sprouts are delicious when properly prepared!
4. Stuffed mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms can be a side or entrée, depending on the size of the mushrooms used. Their earthy flavor pairs perfectly with French onion soup, and a recipe like spinach stuffed mushrooms sneaks some healthy greens in for a well-rounded meal.
5. Sautéed greens
Speaking of greens, you could just make a simple pan of sautéed greens to go with the soup. Kale, chard, spinach, collards, or another leafy green sautéed and lightly seasoned nicely complements French onion soup's rich, earthy flavors and contributes a healthy dose of important nutrients.
6. Roasted squash
For a sweet and comforting side, stick a pan of roasted sweet dumpling squash in the oven while the onions caramelize and simmer on the stove. This is perfect for the cozy fall or winter months and has a bit of a holiday vibe around Thanksgiving.
7. French barley salad
To stick with the geographic theme, pair French onion soup with French barley salad. This whole-grain salad features chewy barley and crisp veggies in a simple homemade vinaigrette. It's hearty and healthy without being too heavy, making it an excellent side for French onion soup.
8. Stuffed peppers
Another side that could also be an entrée is stuffed peppers, which are best served with this soup in the late summer or early fall. At this time of year, the weather has begun to cool, but bell peppers are still in season. For a vegetarian option, try risotto stuffed peppers.
FAQs
French onion soup is a bit different from other soups, with the bread served in the bowl instead of alongside it and a thick layer of melted cheese sealing the top. Here are the answers to a few common questions to help demystify this delicious dish.
French onion soup is made by caramelizing onions and simmering them in beef or vegetable broth. The soup is then ladled into oven-safe soup bowls with bread and cheese, then placed under the broiler for a few minutes. Here is my easy and delicious French onion soup recipe!
You want a nice melty cheese for French onion soup. Gruyere is traditional, though you can also use another gooey cheese like Swiss, gouda, or mozzarella. A sprinkle of parmesan is always a good idea too, of course.
French bread, of course! Any crusty bread will do, from croutons to garlic bread, but if you want to stick to the more traditional recipe, you'll want to purchase (or bake!) a nice French baguette.
You sure can! Just make sure to store the soup, bread, and cheese in separate airtight containers. The soup keeps in the fridge for up to five days. The soup (minus the bread and cheese) can also be frozen for three months. When ready to serve, reheat the soup (thaw in the fridge first if it's been frozen), then assemble the bowls as instructed in the recipe.
It's challenging to eat French onion soup in a dignified manner if you don't know how. That thick layer of gooey cheese seems nearly impenetrable when you only hold a spoon. The secret to eating French onion soup, it turns out, is a knife. Use the knife to cut through the cheese layer carefully, then push bits onto your spoon.
More Soup Side Dish Ideas
- what to serve with butternut squash soup
- what to serve with pumpkin soup
- what to serve with lentil soup
- what to serve with beef stew
There are many great options regarding what to serve with French onion soup. While making the rich, earthy soup, which involves more waiting than active cooking, you can whip up a side or light entrée to go with it. Bon appétit!
