This soup is a comforting classic with a rich, creamy base and the sweetness of caramelized onions.
It’s made with a simple combination of chicken broth, Velveeta cheese, and a thick white sauce that gives it a smooth, velvety texture.
The addition of shredded Cheddar cheese on top takes it over the top, making every bite satisfying. Using easy-to-find ingredients like butter, flour, milk, and onions, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home.
It’s perfect as an appetizer or paired with bread or salad for a cozy meal.
This recipe delivers everything you love about French onion soup, with a creamy twist that sets it apart.
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Soup
Rich and Creamy Flavor
This soup combines a velvety white sauce with sweet caramelized onions and melted Velveeta cheese, creating a rich, satisfying dish.
Simple Ingredients
With just a handful of basic pantry staples, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special appetizer, this soup delivers comfort and warmth in every bite.
Ingredient Substitutions
Velveeta Cheese
Substitute with shredded American cheese or mild Cheddar for a similar creamy texture.
Chicken Broth
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Whole Milk
Substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty French bread for dipping.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Enjoy alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.
How to Store and Reheat
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some links provided may be affiliate links where I may earn a commission if you purchase something after clicking on a link. No extra cost is added to you. Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links.
Need to upgrade your kitchen organization? Check out these Pantry Organization Canisters
If you need to change the amount of servings the recipe will make, click on the number of servings in the section under the “Print Recipe” bar, and move the slider up or down to change the number of servings you want.
Or to double or triple the recipe, click on the 2x or 3x next to “Ingredients”.
Copycat Outback Steakhouse French Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups yellow sweet onions thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 15 ounces chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cubes chicken bouillon
- ¼ cup Velveeta cheese cubes diced
- 1½-1¾ cup white sauce see below
- shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
For the White Sauce
- Place 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan and melt over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the butter and stir until a thick paste forms and it begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Gradually pour in the milk, a little at a time, while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the salt and continue stirring until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and set aside for the soup.
For the Soup:
- In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are soft and translucent but not browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken bouillon cubes, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is heated through.
- Add the prepared white sauce and Velveeta cheese to the soup. Stir constantly over medium-low heat until the cheese is fully melted and the ingredients are well combined.
- Reduce the heat to warm and let the soup cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded Cheddar cheese.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Cooking the Onions
Cook the onions slowly over low heat to achieve a soft texture without browning them. Stir often to prevent burning.Preventing Lumps in White Sauce
Add the milk gradually while stirring constantly to ensure a smooth, thick sauce.Cheese Garnish
Shred the Cheddar cheese finely for easy melting on top of the hot soup.How to Store and Reheat
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.Nutrition
You May also Like: