Name: Irresistible Instant Pot French Onion Soup in Just 40 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor.); 10 medium Yellow Onions, sliced (Primary flavor base; can substitute with white onions.); 0.5 tsp Salt (Enhances overall flavor balance; adjust to taste.); 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Enhances overall flavor balance; adjust to taste.); 0.5 tsp Dried Thyme (Introduces herbaceous notes; fresh thyme preferred.); 2 tbsp Flour (Thickens the soup.); 0.5 cup Red Wine (Adds depth; use low-sodium broth for non-alcoholic.); 6 cups Beef Broth (Heart of the soup; replace with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.); 6 slices Baguette, sliced about 1/2 inch thick (Adds a crunchy topping.); 0.75 cup Gruyere Cheese, grated (Melts perfectly for a luscious top layer.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling onions filled the air, wrapping me in a warm embrace. This moment reminded me of cozy Parisian bistros, where the magic of cooking transforms the simplest ingredients into a delightful feast. Today, I’m excited to share my Quick & Easy Instant Pot French Onion Soup. Not only is this recipe a surefire way to impress your family and friends, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality experience in just 40 minutes—making it perfect for busy weeknights. With beautifully caramelized onions and a heavenly layer of melted Gruyere cheese topping crispy baguette slices, this comforting dish is a hug in a bowl. Want to know how to recreate this bistro classic at home? Let’s dive in!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Rich, Comforting Flavor: Each spoonful is packed with the savory essence of caramelized onions and decadent Gruyere cheese, creating a dish that warms the heart.

Quick Cooking Time: Using an Instant Pot means you’ll have restaurant-quality soup on the table in just 40 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Versatile Options: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit dietary preferences by swapping beef broth for vegetable broth, making it a fantastic vegetarian option.

Impressive Yet Easy: With only a few simple steps, you’ll feel like a gourmet chef, impressing your friends and family with minimal effort. For a delightful pairing, consider serving this soup alongside a fresh arugula salad or even a bite of churro stuffed French toast.

Perfect for Leftovers: The soup keeps well, allowing you to conveniently enjoy its delicious depth of flavor all week long! Store in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for a cozy meal later on.

Instant Pot French Onion Soup Ingredients

For the Base

Butter – Adds richness and flavor; opt for unsalted to control salt levels.
Yellow Onions (10 medium-sized, sliced) – The primary flavor base; caramelizes beautifully for a sweet taste—can substitute with white onions for a milder flavor.
Salt & Pepper (1/2 tsp each) – Enhances overall flavor balance; adjust based on your taste.
Dried Thyme (1/2 tsp) – Introduces herbaceous notes; using fresh thyme provides a more vibrant flavor.
Flour (2 tbsp) – Thickens the soup and improves texture.

For the Liquid

Red Wine (1/2 cup) – Adds a deep, tangy depth; use low-sodium broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Beef Broth (6 cups) – This is the heart of the soup, giving it a rich flavor; replace with vegetable broth for an excellent vegetarian option.

For the Topping

Baguette (6 slices, sliced about 1/2 inch thick) – Adds a crunchy topping; a crusty variety yields the best texture.
Gruyere Cheese (3/4 cup, grated) – Melts perfectly for a luscious top layer; substitute with Swiss, Emmental, or Provolone cheese for variation.

Embrace the experience of cooking this delightful Instant Pot French Onion Soup and bring the flavors of a charming bistro to your kitchen—your loved ones will thank you!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Instant Pot French Onion Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions
Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, then add 10 medium-sized sliced yellow onions to the pot. Cook the onions for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become deeply browned and caramelized, their sweetness filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.

Step 2: Season and Thicken
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, sprinkle ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, along with ½ teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour until the onions are well coated. Pour in ½ cup of red wine, allowing it to sauté for 1-2 minutes, reducing the liquid while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Pressure Cook
Next, add 6 cups of beef broth to the pot, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 5 minutes. Remember, it will take some time for the pressure to build, so sit back while the magic happens.

Step 4: Release Pressure
After the cooking time is completed, carefully perform a quick release to release the pressure. Once the steam has fully escaped, and the lid is safe to remove, take off the lid, revealing your delicious Instant Pot French Onion Soup, bubbling with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare for Broiling
While the soup is hot, slice a crusty baguette into 6 pieces, about ½ inch thick, and grate ¾ cup of Gruyere cheese. Preheat your oven broiler to high, so it’s ready to give your topping that irresistible golden crust.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the comforting soup into oven-safe bowls, generously placing the baguette slices on top. Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese over the bread, then place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve your Instant Pot French Onion Soup immediately, and watch your loved ones delight in its warmth.

Variations & Substitutions for Instant Pot French Onion Soup

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to your taste buds’ content!

Vegetarian:
Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth for a delightful vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The soup remains rich and comforting!
Cheese Swap:
Use Swiss or Provolone cheese instead of Gruyere for a milder flavor that still melts beautifully. Change it up based on what’s in your fridge!
Onion Variety:
Substitute yellow onions with white or sweet onions for a different sweetness profile. Each option brings a unique twist to the traditional flavor.
Herb Boost:
Toss in some fresh parsley or chives right before serving for an herbal finish that brightens the comforting depth of the soup.
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat. Just the right amount will complement the savory flavor without overwhelming it.
Add Veggies:
Consider mixing in diced carrots or celery as part of the initial saute. They add texture and sweetness—because why not make it even more delicious?
Bread Alternatives:
If you’re out of baguette, try using any crusty bread you have on hand. Each type will create a tasty topping that’s unique in its own right.
Thickened Texture:
If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half just before serving. It’ll elevate the luxurious feel of each spoonful!

For a complete meal, serve this comforting soup with a fresh arugula salad or pair with my delicious Beef Potato Soup. The options are endless—let your culinary creativity shine!

How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot French Onion Soup

Fridge: Store your Instant Pot French Onion Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. Remember to keep the cheese and baguette separate to maintain their texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup (without toppings) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2–3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing for best results.

Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it up gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add fresh toppings right before serving to enjoy that delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestion: If you desire a fresh topping, prepare the baguette and cheese just before serving to keep everything crispy and delicious!

Expert Tips for Instant Pot French Onion Soup

Butter Matters: Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness; it allows the natural sweetness of the onions to shine.
Onion Variety: Stick with yellow onions for the best caramelization. If you prefer a milder taste, white onions can be a suitable substitute.
Liquid Choices: When opting for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works wonderfully without compromising flavor in your Instant Pot French Onion Soup.
Check for Thickness: If you desire a thicker soup, add a cornstarch slurry after cooking to reach your preferred consistency.
Broiling Caution: Keep a close eye while broiling cheese; it browns quickly and can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
Leftover Storage: Store the soup separately from the toppings to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

What to Serve with Instant Pot French Onion Soup

This heartwarming bowl of soup deserves some delightful companions to enhance your dining experience.

Garlic Bread:
Crunchy with a hint of garlic, this classic pairing adds an extra layer of flavor and provides a satisfying texture contrast.
Arugula Salad:
Light and peppery, this fresh salad brings a bright note to the rich soup, making each bite refreshing and balanced.
Classic French Dip Sandwich:
The savory flavors of tender beef and melted cheese in this sandwich create a hearty complement, making it a perfect pairing for dipping.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
The slightly bitter and earthy taste of Brussels sprouts, roasted to perfection, adds a vibrant touch that balances the soup’s richness.
Cheesy Croutons:
Small cubes of toasted bread topped with melted cheese offer a delightful crunch, adding another layer of flavor to each spoonful of soup.
A Glass of Red Wine:
A medium-bodied red wine enhances the soup’s depth, echoing the flavor of the red wine used in the recipe, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Instant Pot French Onion Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can sauté the onions and prepare the soup base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1 and 2, then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, add broth and finish cooking by setting your Instant Pot to high pressure for 5 minutes. For optimal quality, store the baguette slices and Gruyere cheese separately and broil them fresh right before serving. This way, you’ll savor the same rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort, making your weeknight cooking both convenient and delicious!

Instant Pot French Onion Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right onions for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting onions, opt for yellow onions due to their natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the soup’s flavor. If you want a milder taste, feel free to substitute with white onions. Ensure they’re firm and free from any dark spots, indicating freshness.

How should I store leftovers from this soup?
Very simple! Store your Instant Pot French Onion Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. To maintain the best texture, keep the cheese and baguette toppings separate from the soup. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious dish when reheating!

Can I freeze Instant Pot French Onion Soup?
Yes, you can! Cool the soup completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers without the toppings. It can be safely frozen for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What should I do if my soup is too thin?
No worries! If your soup turns out thinner than desired, a simple fix is to stir in a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) into the simmering soup. Allow it to cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, and it will thicken up nicely!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! The Instant Pot French Onion Soup can easily be modified for dietary needs. To make it vegetarian, simply swap out beef broth for vegetable broth. If you’re mindful of dairy, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative for the topping or omitting cheese altogether.

Can my pets eat this soup?
While the soup is delicious for us humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Onions can be harmful to dogs and cats, so be sure to store any leftovers safely out of their reach. Always check with your vet before sharing any human food with your furry friends!