Applebees French Onion Soup Recipe 2025

If you’ve ever had the French onion soup at Applebee’s, you know how rich, warm, and satisfying it is. That savory broth, soft caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese on top of crispy bread, it’s pure comfort in a bowl.

The good news? You don’t have to go out to enjoy it. This recipe brings that same delicious flavor to your own kitchen. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes just like the real thing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something cozy, this soup hits the spot.

Key Benefits of Applebees French Onion Soup Recipe

Here’s why this recipe is worth trying:

Tastes Just Like the Restaurant
Get the rich, savory flavor you love from Applebee’s without leaving home.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Made with basic pantry items like onions, broth, and bread, no fancy shopping needed.
Warm and Comforting
Perfect for cold days, sick days, or anytime you need a cozy meal.
Customizable to Your Diet
Easily adapted to vegetarian or gluten-free diets using simple swaps.
Great for Meal Prep
Keeps well in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy it later without extra work.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes & Tips
Yellow onions	4 large	Thinly sliced; sweet onions are also a good option
Butter	3 tablespoons	Use olive oil if you prefer a dairy-free version
Beef broth	6 cups	Low-sodium is best; vegetable broth works for vegetarian needs
Garlic	2 cloves, minced	Fresh gives more flavor, but pre-minced is fine
Salt	½ teaspoon	Add more or less depending on your broth
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon	Adjust to taste
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon	Or use a mix of dried thyme and oregano
French bread slices	4–6 slices	Toast them well so they hold up in the soup
Provolone cheese	6 slices	Mozzarella or Swiss also melt nicely
Parsley (optional)	1 tablespoon	For garnish adds a fresh pop of color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

You’ll be surprised at how simple it is to recreate this Applebee’s-style French onion soup in your own kitchen. Just take your time with the onions, and the rest comes together naturally.

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Place a large pot on medium heat and let the butter melt gently.
Toss in the sliced onions along with a small sprinkle of salt. Stir to coat them evenly.
Let the onions cook low and slow for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re tender and caramelized.

Applebees French Onion Soup Recipe Step 1

Tip: If the onions start to burn, lower the heat and add a splash of broth to loosen the browned bits.

Step 2: Build the Soup

Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, keeping it moving so it doesn’t scorch.
Mix in the Italian herbs, black pepper, and pour in the broth.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This lets the flavors blend and deepen.

Applebees French Onion Soup Recipe Step 2

Step 3: Toast and Broil

As the soup simmers, toast the bread until it’s nicely crisped and golden.
Preheat your oven broiler.
Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, place toasted bread on top, and add a slice of provolone to each.
Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden and bubbly.

Applebees French Onion Soup Recipe Step 3

Caution: Keep a close eye while broiling the cheese can go from perfect to burnt fast!

Recipe Variations

Here are a few ways to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Vegetarian Version
Swap the beef broth with vegetable broth, and double-check that the cheese fits a vegetarian diet.
Gluten-Free Option
Choose gluten-free bread and check that your broth is labeled gluten-free.
Kid-Friendly Style
Use mild cheese like mozzarella, and skip the herbs if your child prefers simple flavors.
Low-Sodium Adjustment
Use unsalted butter and low-sodium broth, then season gradually to taste.
Dairy-Free Alternative
Swap butter for olive oil and use dairy-free cheese that melts well.

Serving Suggestions

This Applebees French Onion Soup recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but the right sides and toppings can make it even more satisfying.

Fresh Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables
Add some color and nutrients to your meal with roasted carrots, broccoli, or zucchini.
Seasonal Touches
In fall and winter, pair it with a warm baked potato or a side of apple slaw. In spring, try it alongside a tomato-cucumber salad.
Cheese Crouton Upgrade
Try sprinkling shredded mozzarella or Parmesan directly onto the bread before broiling for an extra cheesy bite.
Drink Pairing
A glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a refreshing contrast to the savory broth.

Tips for Success

To make your soup turn out just right, here are a few personal tips from experience:

Don’t Rush the Onions
Caramelizing onions takes time, but it’s the most important step. If they’re undercooked, the soup won’t have that deep flavor.
Use Day-Old Bread
Slightly stale bread holds up better in the soup without getting soggy too quickly.
Taste as You Go
Depending on your broth, salt levels can vary. Always give your soup a taste before the final simmer and adjust if needed.
Use Oven-Safe Bowls
If you’re broiling the cheese, make sure your bowls are safe to go under the broiler to avoid cracking.
Layer the Cheese Smartly
Let a bit of cheese drape over the edge of the bowl for that picture-perfect melted look.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of cheese does Applebee’s use on French onion soup?

Applebee’s usually finishes their French onion soup with a layer of smooth provolone cheese. You can use provolone at home for that same smooth, melty texture. Mozzarella or Swiss also work well if you want a slight variation.

How long will French onion soup stay good in the fridge?

Homemade French onion soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Warm it slowly on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before enjoying.

Is Applebee’s French onion soup good?

Yes, many people love it for its bold onion flavor, rich broth, and gooey cheese topping. It’s a favorite comfort food for a reason, and this recipe brings all of that to your table at home.

Can you eat leftover French onion soup?

Definitely! Leftover soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store the soup and bread separately, then reheat and assemble when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about a bowl of French onion soup, especially when it’s homemade. This Applebees French Onion Soup recipe gives you all the flavor and comfort of the restaurant favorite, with none of the hassle. Once you try it, you might find it becoming a regular in your kitchen, especially when you want something cozy, warm, and satisfying.

Take your time with the onions, enjoy the aroma filling your home, and serve it up hot and cheesy. I hope you enjoy every spoonful!