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French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Bread Topping

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French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Bread Topping combines the savory richness of French onion soup with the heartiness of a slow-cooked beef stew. Tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and a deep-flavored broth are crowned with Gruyère-topped toasted bread—perfect for a cozy, indulgent meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs stewing beef or chuck roast, cut into chunks
  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups beef broth (or 2 cups broth + 2 cups dry red wine)
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 baguette or crusty French bread, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss, provolone, mozzarella)
  • Olive oil or butter (for brushing bread)

Instructions

  1. Season beef with salt and pepper, dredge lightly in flour.
  2. In a Dutch oven, heat oil and butter over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes until deeply caramelized.
  4. Add garlic and deglaze the pot with a splash of broth or wine, scraping up the browned bits.
  5. Return beef to the pot. Add remaining broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaves, and optional balsamic or mustard. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, until beef is tender.
  7. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices brushed with oil or butter. Top with cheese and broil until bubbly and golden.
  8. Serve stew in bowls topped with cheesy bread, or place stew and bread in oven-safe bowls and broil briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t rush the onion caramelization—it builds the stew’s signature flavor.
  • A touch of Dijon or balsamic adds brightness and depth.
  • Use mushrooms for a vegetarian twist or added umami.
  • Slow cooker variation: transfer sautéed ingredients to the cooker and simmer on low for 6–8 hours.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/french-onion-beef-stew-with-cheesy-bread-topping/