Stepping into the kitchen, you’re greeted by the warm, inviting scent of caramelized onions gently sautéing in olive oil. As they soften and deepen in color, your mouth starts to water, anticipating a cozy bowl of Creamy French Onion and Butter Bean Soup. This vegetarian gem offers not only a taste of comfort but also a quick fix for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet satisfying. With its simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time, making it a perfect choice for anyone tired of fast food. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, allowing you to savor its rich flavors whenever the mood strikes. Ready to warm your soul with this delightful soup? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting, Cozy Flavors: The creamy combination of rich caramelized onions and tender butter beans creates a heartwarming dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this soup in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile and Adaptable: Feel free to swap the butter beans for cannellini beans or mix in some diced veggies for added texture.
Freezer-Friendly: You can enjoy this delicious meal on demand, as it freezes beautifully, ensuring a comforting bowl of goodness is always within reach.
Perfect with Crusty Bread: Serve it alongside toasted baguette, the crunchy contrast pairs perfectly with the creamy soup, making each bite delightful. If you love this flavor-packed experience, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for another comforting dish!
French Onion and Butter Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Yellow Onions – The star of the show, caramelizing to create a sweet, flavorful foundation for the soup.
- Butter Beans – Adds a creamy texture and enhances the heartiness of this French Onion and Butter Bean Soup; feel free to substitute with cannellini beans or chickpeas for a different taste.
- Vegetable Broth – The savory backdrop of the soup; chicken broth or a water and bouillon cube combo works just as well if you prefer.
For the Topping
- Gruyère Cheese – Melts beautifully, creating that nutty, gooey finish; substitute with Swiss cheese or sharp cheddar for a twist.
- Baguette – A perfect accompaniment for soaking up the delicious broth; any crusty bread or sourdough will do!
For Cooking
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing the onions, adding both flavor and richness; consider using another neutral oil if needed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy French Onion and Butter Bean Soup
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 large sliced yellow onions to the pot, stirring them to coat with oil. Cook slowly for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, releasing sweet aromas that fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Broth and Beans
Once the onions have reached a deep golden hue, pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 can of drained butter beans. Stir the mixture well, increasing the heat to medium-high, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and develop.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
If you prefer a creamier texture for your French Onion and Butter Bean Soup, take an immersion blender and blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot, just for a few seconds. This adds a nice creaminess while still leaving some beans whole for that delightful texture in every spoonful.
Step 4: Prepare for Broiling
Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, filling them about three-quarters full. Generously top each bowl with grated Gruyère cheese, ensuring a nice layer covers the soup. Preheat your broiler on high and place the bowls on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
Step 5: Broil Until Golden
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, keeping a close watch. Watch for the cheese to melt beautifully and turn golden brown, bubbling delightfully as it forms an irresistible crust on the soup.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bowls cool slightly. For an added burst of flavor, drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, if desired. Serve your Creamy French Onion and Butter Bean Soup immediately with toasted baguette on the side to soak up all that delicious broth.
Make Ahead Options
This Creamy French Onion and Butter Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor a delicious homemade dish with minimal effort during your busy weeknights. You can caramelize the onions and prepare the soup base up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavors. The soup components, including the butter beans, can be prepped ahead but wait to mix in the cheese until final assembly. When ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove, ladle it into bowls, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden. This approach not only saves time but keeps your soup just as delightful as the day it was made!
How to Store and Freeze French Onion and Butter Bean Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring its creamy goodness is preserved.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container after cooling completely. It can be stored for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy again.
Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency as needed.
Serving Reminder: When ready to serve, consider topping the reheated soup with freshly grated Gruyère to recreate that bubbly, cheesy finish you first fell in love with!
Expert Tips for French Onion and Butter Bean Soup
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Caramelization Timing: Don’t rush the caramelization process; take your time to cook the onions slowly for 25-30 minutes to develop that deep sweetness essential for this soup.
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Stirring is Key: Remember to stir the onions frequently while caramelizing to prevent them from burning, ensuring a flavorful base for your French Onion and Butter Bean Soup.
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Broiling Caution: Stay close to the oven while broiling. Cheese can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it until it’s just golden and bubbly.
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Blending Option: If you opt to blend some of the soup for creaminess, do it in intervals to maintain some whole beans for texture—this balance makes each bite enjoyable.
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Storage Success: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container, and it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment.
French Onion and Butter Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to customize your soup experience with these delicious variations to make it uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the Gruyère cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Add coconut cream in place of vegetable broth for richness.
Enjoy the same comforting soup with a whole new vibe! -
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the onions for a delightful heat that complements the savory flavors.
Elevate your soup to another level of deliciousness! -
Hearty Veggie Boost: Mix in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers with the onions for extra texture and nutrition. This twist turns your soup into even more of a meal!
Each bite will be bursting with a variety of flavors. -
Different Beans: If you’re eager to experiment, swap butter beans for chickpeas or cannellini beans to alter the texture while still maintaining that hearty charm.
These beans will add their unique touch to the creamy base! -
Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking phase for an aromatic boost that lends sophistication to your comfort food.
With these fragrant herbs, each bowl will be a delight for your senses! -
Extra Crunch: For a delightful texture, add fried shallots or pistachios on top before serving. This exciting topping brings an unexpected crunch to each spoonful.
Your taste buds will love the playful contrast! -
Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika for a warm, smoky twist. This seasoning brings an alluring depth to the already rich flavors of the soup.
Your soul will sing with happiness in every savory bite! -
Baguette Alternatives: Change things up by using crispy homemade croutons or garlic bread instead of baguette for dipping; these options pack an extra punch of flavor!
When paired with the creamy soup, they create a comforting delight you’ll crave again and again!
For more cozy dishes that warm the soul, try my Comforting Potsticker Soup or enjoy the savory goodness of Garlic Butter Steak Bites.
What to Serve with Creamy French Onion and Butter Bean Soup
Stepping into your kitchen, the aroma of caramelized onions fills the air, beckoning you to create a complete meal that brings warmth and comfort.
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Crusty Baguette: This classic pairing creates a delightful crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy soup, ideal for soaking up every last drop.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread enhances the comforting experience, adding a savory twist that marries flawlessly with the rich soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, providing an earthy side that complements the caramelized notes in the soup.
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Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and tangy goat cheese, invites guests to indulge while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Zesty Citrus Dessert: A light lemon tart or orange sorbet offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, leaving your palate enlivened and satisfied.
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Crispy Fried Onions: This crunchy topping adds a wonderful texture that echoes the caramelized onions in the soup, making every bite more exciting.
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Lightly Sparkling Wine: A crisp, bubbly wine enhances the meal, balancing the creamy elements of the French Onion and Butter Bean Soup beautifully.
French Onion and Butter Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of onions should I use for this soup?
Absolutely, yellow onions are the best choice for this recipe! They caramelize beautifully, creating a sweet and savory base that enhances the overall flavor of your French Onion and Butter Bean Soup. You could also use sweet onions like Vidalia for an even milder sweetness, but yellow onions are tried and true.
How should I store leftovers of this soup?
Very simply! Allow your soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often enjoy it the next day, as the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious!
Can I freeze French Onion and Butter Bean Soup?
Yes, indeed! This soup freezes beautifully. Once cooled, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh its consistency.
What if my onions burn while caramelizing?
Oh no! If you find your onions starting to burn, lower the heat immediately and add a splash of water to the pot. This will help deglaze any bits stuck to the bottom and lift the caramelization without further burning the onions. Remember, patience is key, so stirring frequently will help avoid this problem.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, good question! This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by simply omitting the Gruyère cheese or substituting it with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, check that your vegetable broth is gluten-free if needed. And since this recipe includes beans, it’s also a fantastic option for those looking for filling plant-based proteins.
How can I adjust the spice level of this soup?
The more the merrier when it comes to customization! For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper during the cooking stage. If you prefer a milder soup, simply leave out any additional spices and let the natural flavors shine through.
Creamy French Onion and Butter Bean Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced yellow onions and stir to coat with oil. Cook slowly for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add drained butter beans. Stir well, increase heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes.
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot for a few seconds while leaving some beans whole.
- Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls filling them about three-quarters full. Generously top with grated Gruyère cheese. Preheat your broiler on high and place bowls on a baking sheet.
- Place baking sheet under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with toasted baguette.
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