French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup simmering away on a chilly evening. Rich, caramelized onions melt into a luxurious beef broth, slow-cooked short ribs fall effortlessly off the bone, and a layer of gooey melted cheese crowns the top — the kind of dish that instantly makes a home feel warmer.

This recipe takes the best parts of French onion soup — sweet onions, hearty broth, and bubbling cheese — and combines them with tender, savory beef short ribs for an unforgettable meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 lbs beef short ribs, bone-in
• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 6 slices crusty French bread or baguette
• 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Short Ribs:
   Pat the short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until deep brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
   Add the remaining butter to the same pot. Stir in the sliced onions and cook over medium heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and soft. Don’t rush this step — slow caramelization is key to deep flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Deglaze:
   Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle in flour and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   Return the short ribs to the pot along with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for about 2½–3 hours, until the short ribs are fork-tender and the broth is rich and flavorful.
5. Assemble and Broil:
   Remove the short ribs and shred the meat, discarding bones. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted French bread and a generous handful of cheese. Broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Carefully remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and enjoy a bowl of cozy perfection!

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Caramelizing Onions: Go slow! Low and slow heat brings out their natural sweetness.
• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze (without bread/cheese) for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

• Lighter Option: Use lean stew beef or leftover roast instead of short ribs.
• Cheese Swap: Try provolone, mozzarella, or fontina if Gruyère isn’t on hand.
• Extra Flavor: Add a dash of brandy or sherry before serving for that classic French flair.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup with:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic butter toast or herbed focaccia
• A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir for a cozy night in

Conclusion

This French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is more than just a recipe — it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. The deep, caramelized onions, tender beef, and gooey cheese make it the kind of meal that slows you down and warms your soul. Whether you serve it for a special dinner or a lazy Sunday evening, it’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come.