French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup: A Rich and Hearty Delight 🥣🧅🥩

1. Introduction

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup. This flavorful, hearty soup combines the deep, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup with tender, succulent beef short ribs. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a nourishing twist on traditional onion soup, packed with rich broth, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and sweet caramelized onions. Whether you’re a fan of French onion soup or looking for a new beef short rib recipe to elevate your meal, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and guests alike.

2. Ingredients for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

• 4 pounds beef short ribs, bone-in or boneless
• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth or stock
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Baguette slices or crusty bread for serving
• Grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional, for topping)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make French Onion Beef Short Ribs

Preparation of Beef Short Ribs

Start by seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until they are browned and caramelized, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Caramelizing Onions

In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are deeply golden and fragrant, about 30-40 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of caramelizing. This process builds the rich, sweet flavor characteristic of French onion soup. For more kitchen tools that can help make this process easier, consider using the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master.

Building the Soup

Return the seared beef short ribs to the pot with the caramelized onions. Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the beef is tender and falling off the bone. During cooking, skim any impurities from the surface for a clear, flavorful hearty soup. For time-saving convenience, you might want to use a slow cooker such as the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker.

Preparing the Bread and Cheese Topping

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven broiler. Slice the baguette or crusty bread and toast until golden brown. If desired, sprinkle with grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese, then broil until bubbly and melted.

Serving the French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the piping hot French onion soup into bowls, top with the toasted cheesy bread, and serve immediately. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during cooking.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to refresh the broth’s flavor. To keep your kitchen organized, check out the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set.

5. Serving Suggestions for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

This hearty and flavorful French onion inspired hearty soup is perfect for cozy dinners on cold days. Serve it with crispy bread topped with melted cheese for an authentic French onion experience. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad and a glass of bold red wine or your favorite beer for a complete meal. For an impressive upgrade, consider pairing this meal with Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan.

6. FAQs About French Onion Beef Short Ribs Soup

Can I use boneless beef short ribs for this soup?

Yes, boneless beef short ribs work perfectly for this recipe, making it easier to serve and less messy to eat. The cooking process remains the same, and you will still get tender, flavorful meat.

How long does it take to cook the beef short ribs in this soup?

The beef short ribs should simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Slow cooking ensures maximum flavor and richness in the hearty soup. For further convenience, use the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to quickly chill beverages or ingredients afterward.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! The soup can be made a day ahead. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve, adding bread and cheese topping just before serving for the best texture.

What variations can I try in this recipe?

Feel free to add mushrooms, carrots, or potatoes to add extra heartiness. You can also experiment with different cheeses for the topping or use a splash of red wine during cooking for enhanced flavor. To explore baking options, see the pudding recipes for dessert ideas after your meal.

7. Conclusion

Experience the comforting warmth and rich flavors of our French Onion Beef Short Ribs Soup. Combining the savory depth of caramelized onions with tender beef short ribs, this French onion soup-inspired hearty soup is a must-try for any soup lover. Perfectly balanced, deeply flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—this recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience every time. Embrace the warmth and richness of this delicious and hearty dish and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive.

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