Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Sausage

Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory sausage. This slow-cooked version of the classic French onion soup is perfect for a cozy meal, offering a delicious blend of textures and tastes. Serve it with crusty bread and melted cheese for a complete and satisfying experience.

Ingredients

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 pound sausage, sliced or crumbled
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 8 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese

Instructions

1. Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2. Caramelize Onions: In the same skillet with the sausage fat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the caramelized onions and sausage to a slow cooker. Add the white wine to the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits, then pour it into the slow cooker.
5. Add Broth and Seasonings: Add the beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Prepare Bread: About 15 minutes before serving, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Assemble and Serve: Preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a toasted baguette slice on top of each, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot.

Enjoy your Slow Cooker French Onion Soup with Sausage!