Italian Onion Soup with Fontina is a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, featuring sweet caramelized onions, aromatic herbs, and creamy Fontina cheese. This comforting dish is perfect as a starter or a light meal, especially during colder months. It’s rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying!

Ingredients List

For the Soup

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 large onions (thinly sliced, preferably a mix of yellow and red)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize the onions)
• 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Topping

• 1 cup Fontina cheese (grated)
• 1 cup crusty bread (sliced into rounds or cubes)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for an extra cheesy topping)
• Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Preparing Italian Onion Soup with Fontina takes about 15 minutes for prep and 45 minutes for cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat Butter and Oil: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add Onions and Sugar: Add the sliced onions and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Be patient; this step is crucial for flavor!

Step 2: Add Garlic and Broth

1. Stir in Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Wine (Optional): Pour in the white wine, if using, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Pour in Broth: Add the beef or vegetable broth, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Reduce Heat: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toast Bread: Place the slices of crusty bread on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Soup

1. Serve Soup: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
2. Add Cheese and Bread: Place a slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl, then sprinkle generously with Fontina and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Broil the Topping

1. Broil: Place the bowls under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and thyme leaves if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Italian Onion Soup with Fontina (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	15g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	25g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Customization

• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for added flavor.
• Add Protein: Consider adding cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier soup.
• Cheese Options: If Fontina is unavailable, you can substitute with Gruyère or mozzarella.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Italian Onion Soup with Fontina can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave. It’s best to add the cheese and bread topping just before serving.

Conclusion

Italian Onion Soup with Fontina is a deliciously rich and comforting dish that elevates the classic onion soup experience. With its savory flavors and creamy cheese topping, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup base in advance and reheat it when ready to serve, adding the cheese and bread topping just before broiling.

Can I freeze the soup?

While you can freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze it without the cheese and bread topping. Add those fresh when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal!