Vegan French Onion Soup Recipe (Rich & Comforting)

Few dishes offer the same deep, savory comfort as French onion soup. Traditionally made with buttery caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese, this classic dish gets a plant-based makeover while keeping all the rich, umami-packed flavors intact.

This vegan French onion soup features perfectly caramelized onions, a flavorful homemade vegetable broth, and a gooey, dairy-free cheese topping on toasted bread. It’s the ultimate cozy, restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Let’s dive into this satisfying, dairy-free, and completely irresistible version of French onion soup!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan French Onion Soup

✔ Deep, Savory Flavor – Slow-cooked onions and a rich broth create the ultimate umami experience.
✔ 100% Plant-Based – No beef broth, no butter, no dairy—just wholesome vegan ingredients.
✔ Perfect for Cozy Nights – A warm, comforting dish for fall and winter.
✔ Easy to Make – Requires just a few simple ingredients and some patience for caramelizing onions.
✔ Better Than Restaurant-Style – With a homemade touch that’s even more flavorful.

Ingredients for Vegan French Onion Soup

For the Soup Base:

• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced – The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and depth.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter – Helps caramelize the onions to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Draws out moisture and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of warmth.
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar – Adds complexity and enhances the caramelized flavor.
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – Adds depth and umami, mimicking beef broth.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Classic herb for French onion soup.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a subtle smoky touch.
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional but recommended) – Adds brightness and depth to the broth.
• 6 cups vegetable broth – The rich, flavorful base of the soup.
• 1 bay leaf – Infuses the broth with aromatic depth.

For the Topping:

• 4 slices of crusty baguette or sourdough – The perfect base for melty cheese.
• 1 cup shredded vegan cheese (like Violife, Miyoko’s, or homemade cashew cheese) – Provides a gooey, cheesy topping.
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional) – Enhances the cheesy, umami flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large pot over medium-low heat.
2. Add sliced onions and sprinkle with salt. Stir well.
3. Cook for 40–50 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning. The onions should turn deep golden brown and jammy.
4. If the onions start sticking, deglaze the pan with a splash of water or broth.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

1. Add balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, thyme, and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the onions.
2. Pour in white wine (if using) and cook for 2 minutes, letting the alcohol cook off.
3. Add vegetable broth and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15–20 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a dash of soy sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread & Cheese Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange slices of baguette or sourdough on a baking sheet.
3. Toast for 5 minutes until lightly crisp.
4. Remove from oven, sprinkle with vegan cheese and nutritional yeast, then return to the oven for 5–7 minutes until melted.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
2. Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls (if available).
3. Place a slice of cheesy toasted bread on top of each bowl.
4. For an extra melty, golden crust, place bowls under the broiler for 2–3 minutes (optional).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan French Onion Soup

✔ Low & Slow Caramelization – The secret to the best French onion soup is patiently caramelizing the onions. Don’t rush this step!
✔ Deglaze for Extra Flavor – Use wine or broth to scrape up the flavorful bits from the pan while cooking.
✔ Use a Good Vegetable Broth – A rich, homemade or high-quality store-bought broth makes all the difference.
✔ Melt the Cheese Properly – If your vegan cheese isn’t melting well, try shredding it finely and broiling it for a few minutes.
✔ Make It Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and a GF bread for the topping.

Vegan French Onion Soup Variations

Creamy French Onion Soup

• Blend 1/2 cup soaked cashews with 1/2 cup broth and stir into the soup for a creamy version.

Mushroom French Onion Soup

• Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the onions while caramelizing for an extra umami boost.

Spicy French Onion Soup

• Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Herb-Infused French Onion Soup

• Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for more depth.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan French onion soup pairs well with:

• A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• A side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
• A glass of white wine (if using wine in the recipe, pair with the same type).

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate:

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze:

• French onion soup (without the bread topping) freezes well for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop.

Reheat:

• Warm soup in a pot over medium heat.
• Toast fresh bread, melt cheese on top, and serve as usual.

This vegan French onion soup proves that you don’t need beef broth or dairy to create a rich, deeply flavorful, and comforting soup. With perfectly caramelized onions, a savory broth, and a gooey, cheesy topping, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving classic French flavors with a plant-based twist.