Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Soup

Name: Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; Pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Soup, especially during the cooler months. The combination of sweet, deeply caramelized onions and rich blue cheese creates a flavor explosion that warms the soul. I enjoy serving it as a comforting starter for dinner parties or even as a cozy meal for myself. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, with just a few key ingredients that transform into a gourmet experience. If you're a fan of bold flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-07T21:53:27.913Z

When I first made Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Soup, I was absolutely taken by the way the flavors melded together. Taking the time to caramelize the onions really brings out their natural sweetness, which is a game-changer for this dish. I recommend using fresh herbs for a pop of freshness that balances the richness of the blue cheese.

During my last attempt, I experimented with adding a splash of sherry, which enriched the overall flavor even more. This small addition made the soup feel remarkably indulgent and sophisticated. Trust me, this recipe can elevate your comforting evenings to a whole new level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The exquisite balance of sweet and savory flavors
A luxurious, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Perfect for chilly evenings or impressing guests

      

Mastering the Art of Caramelization

Caramelization of the onions is a crucial step that defines the soup's rich essence. When cooking the onions, keep the heat at medium to prevent burning. Stir them frequently for even cooking. The process may take about 30 to 40 minutes, but patience is key. You'll know they’re ready when they are a deep golden brown and have a sweet aroma, which indicates the sugars are developing beautifully.

To enhance caramelization, sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar over the onions in the final stages. This isn't just for sweetness; it contributes to a deeper and more complex flavor profile. If you notice the onions sticking to the pot, adding a splash of broth can help deglaze the pot, bringing more flavor to your dish— a little trick I often use.

Choosing and Storing Ingredients

The quality of your blue cheese significantly impacts the soup's flavor. I recommend selecting a creamy, pungent variety like Roquefort or Gorgonzola for a more robust taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider a Danish blue cheese. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s wrapped tightly to prevent flavor loss.

For the vegetable broth, homemade is best, but if using store-bought, look for low-sodium options to control the saltiness of your soup better. The heavy cream not only adds richness but also contributes to the soup's luxurious texture. For a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, although the flavor may vary slightly.

Ingredients

For the Soup

4 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and hearty soup that is both satisfying and delightfully different.

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, stirring frequently. Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the onions are deep golden brown.

Stir in the sugar to enhance caramelization.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Incorporate Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, blue cheese, and thyme. Allow the cheese to melt into the soup, which will give it a rich and creamy texture.

Season and Serve

Improve the flavor with freshly cracked pepper and adjust the salt if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with extra blue cheese and thyme if desired.

This Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Soup is best enjoyed warm, paired with crusty bread for dipping.

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and blue cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative. Adjust salt levels to taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too salty, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten flavors and reduce the impact of saltiness. Alternatively, adding more cream or a dollop of sour cream can help balance the flavors. Always taste as you go to make adjustments.

On the flip side, if the soup lacks depth, consider blending it with an immersion blender to enhance the melding of flavors. This technique creates a more cohesive texture, allowing the flavors to intertwine harmoniously.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful touch, serve the soup with toasted baguette slices or croutons topped with extra crumbles of blue cheese. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a pleasing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the soup.

Another fun serving idea is to pair this soup with a lightly dressed arugula salad, which brings a peppery note that complements the sweet onions and tangy blue cheese. If you're in the mood for something heartier, a grilled cheese sandwich on the side makes for an indulgent combination, perfect for chilly evenings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ What type of blue cheese works best?

I recommend a crumbly variety like Gorgonzola or Roquefort for the best flavor, but feel free to use your favorite.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and consume it within 2-3 months.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you're looking for a lighter or dairy-free option.