There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting embrace of a delicious bowl of French Onion Soup, and Applebee’s has certainly perfected this classic dish. The rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions, savory broth, and a golden, bubbling layer of cheese make this soup a staple for many. Whether you’re reminiscing about your last visit to Applebee’s or simply craving a comforting meal at home, you’ll be delighted to know that recreating their famous French Onion Soup is easier than you might think.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making Applebee’s French Onion Soup Recipe at home. Not only will you learn how to make it step-by-step, but we’ll also share tips to help you get the most flavor out of each ingredient. From the origins of this soup to the different variations you can try, you’re in for a treat!
Table of Contents
What Makes Applebee’s French Onion Soup So Special?
Applebee’s French Onion Soup is known for its distinctive, rich flavor profile. But what exactly sets it apart from the traditional French onion soup?
First, Applebee’s uses a perfect balance of ingredients, combining slow-caramelized onions with a robust, savory broth that provides depth and richness. The soup is topped with a generous layer of melted cheese that’s perfectly browned, giving each spoonful an irresistible combination of textures and flavors.
Another unique feature is the choice of cheese. Applebee’s often uses a blend of melted provolone and Swiss, which melt together to create a wonderfully gooey layer. The balance of sweetness from the caramelized onions with the savory broth and rich cheese is what makes Applebee’s version of French Onion Soup so unforgettable.
How to Get the Best Flavor from Applebee’s French Onion Soup Recipe
To truly elevate your French Onion Soup, here are a few tips for getting the best flavor:
- Caramelize the onions properly: The slow caramelization of onions is crucial. Don’t rush this step. It brings out the natural sweetness that forms the backbone of the soup’s flavor.
- Use high-quality broth: The broth serves as the base of the soup, so using a rich, flavorful beef broth (or even homemade) will significantly enhance the taste.
- Cheese selection matters: Use a blend of Swiss and provolone cheese for the perfect melt. You can even experiment with Gruyère for a slightly different flavor.
Tips for Making Applebee’s French Onion Soup at Home
To make your homemade version even better, consider these pro tips:
- Make ahead: You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight.
- Use the right bowls: For that authentic Applebee’s experience, serve the soup in individual, oven-safe bowls.
- Control the sweetness: If you like your soup a bit sweeter, add a teaspoon of sugar during the caramelization process to boost the onion flavor.
The History of Applebee’s French Onion Soup: A Delicious Classic
French Onion Soup has been a beloved dish for centuries, but Applebee’s brought its own twist to this classic. Originating in France, the soup has been a comforting meal for many throughout history. However, Applebee’s took this traditional dish and added its signature touch, making it a standout on their menu. Over time, it has become a go-to comfort food for countless patrons.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Applebee’s French Onion Soup
When making French Onion Soup, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the flavor:
- Not caramelizing onions long enough: If you don’t take the time to caramelize the onions to their full potential, you’ll miss out on the sweet, rich flavor.
- Using the wrong cheese: Stick to Swiss and provolone for the best melt and flavor. Avoid low-fat cheeses, as they won’t melt as beautifully.
- Skipping the broiling step: This step is essential for that perfect, golden cheese crust on top.
How to Serve Applebee’s French Onion Soup for a Perfect Meal
For the perfect meal, serve your French Onion Soup with a side of crispy salad or even grilled meats. The richness of the soup pairs well with a lighter side to balance the flavors. Don’t forget to serve with a fresh loaf of crusty bread for dipping!
Different Variations of Applebee’s French Onion Soup Recipe You Can Try
While Applebee’s French Onion Soup recipe is already perfect, you can switch things up to create your own variation:
- Add a splash of wine: A splash of white wine in the broth adds complexity.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian version: Swap beef broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of the soup.
Why Applebee’s French Onion Soup is the Best Comfort Food
Applebee’s French Onion Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, rich, and satisfying, making it the perfect dish for any time you’re in the mood for something hearty. The combination of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese is truly the definition of cozy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Applebee’s French Onion Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and broil the cheese just before serving.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, while Swiss and provolone are ideal, Gruyère or mozzarella can work as well.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Applebee’s French Onion Soup at home, it’s time to get cooking! With rich flavors and a cheesy, golden topping, this soup is sure to be a hit in your kitchen. Remember to take your time with the caramelization, use the best ingredients, and enjoy the process. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a comforting bowl of French Onion Soup just like the one at Applebee’s.
Applebee’s French Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium yellow onions
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups beef broth or a mix of beef and chicken broth
- 1-2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 French baguette
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Instructions
- Caramelizing the Onions: The key to a great French Onion Soup is the caramelization of the onions. Start by slicing your onions thinly. You’ll need about 4 to 5 medium onions for this recipe. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add some butter (about 4 tablespoons). Add the onions, and stir them occasionally to ensure they don’t burn. This process will take about 20 to 30 minutes, but it’s worth the time! The goal is to turn the onions into a deep, golden brown color and bring out their natural sweetness.
- Adding the Broth: Once your onions are perfectly caramelized, it’s time to add the broth. Pour in about 6 cups of beef broth—this will give the soup its hearty flavor. You can use a mix of beef and chicken broth if you prefer a lighter taste. Add 1-2 teaspoons of thyme, 1 bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for about 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Preparing the Toasted Bread: While your soup is simmering, slice a French baguette into thick slices and toast them lightly. These slices will form the base for the signature cheesy topping of Applebee’s French Onion Soup. Once toasted, set them aside.
- Cheese, Please!: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted slice of bread on top of each bowl, and then top it generously with shredded Swiss and provolone cheese. The more cheese, the better!
- Broil for Perfection: Place your bowls under a hot broiler for about 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Be sure to watch it closely—this step is crucial to achieving that perfect cheesy topping!
