Name: Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 4 onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 5 cups beef or vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp paprika; Salt & pepper, to taste; Baguette slices; Optional: grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 74 reviews

There is something incredibly heartwarming about a bowl of Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe—its deep, caramelized onion flavor paired with rustic bread and melted cheese captures the soul of Spanish comfort food. This dish is not just a soup; it’s an experience that combines simple, humble ingredients into a rich, soothing meal that will wrap you in cozy, savory goodness from the very first spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a red pot with a white interior, filled with a mix of thinly sliced onions. The bottom layer consists of pale yellowish-white onion slices, soft and slightly translucent, lying flat against the pot's surface. On top, there is a layer of thin, circular purple-red onion rings, adding color contrast with a mix of solid and delicate rings spread unevenly. The pot sits on a dark stovetop, and the background is changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every classic recipe shines because of its straightforward, well-chosen ingredients, and this one is no exception. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistibly golden color of the soup.

4 onions, thinly sliced: The star of the show, slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions perfectly without burning.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Introduces a subtle aromatic kick that complements the onions beautifully.
5 cups beef or vegetable broth: The hearty base that carries all the infused flavors.
1 bay leaf: Enhances the broth with a gentle earthiness and depth.
1 tsp paprika: Brings warmth and traditional Spanish character to the soup.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Baguette slices: Toasted for that delightful crunch and texture contrast.
Optional: grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese: Provides a luscious, melty topping that’s pure indulgence.

How to Make Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly for about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir often, allowing the onions to turn a rich golden brown. This patient caramelization is crucial since it unlocks the deep, sweet flavor that defines the Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Once your onions are perfectly golden, add the minced garlic and paprika. Stir continuously for about a minute to toast the spices without letting the garlic burn. Then, season with salt and pepper for that essential balance. This step layers the soup with that unmistakable Spanish warmth and aroma.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in your chosen broth—beef or vegetable, depending on your preference—and add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer helps all the flavors meld together, creating that beautiful, comforting base that invites you to take a spoonful.

Step 4: Prepare the Bread

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to toast the baguette slices until they’re golden and crispy. These toasted breads add great texture and soak up the soup in the best way possible.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and float the toasted baguette slices on top. For an extra special touch, sprinkle grated Manchego or Parmesan cheese on the bread just before serving. The cheese melts into the warm soup, creating a gooey, irresistible finish that’s pure comfort.

How to Serve Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a warm onion soup. The soup has a clear brown broth with soft, cooked onion slices visible throughout. Three toasted bread pieces with melted cheese on top float on the surface, arranged close together in the center of the bowl. The toasted bread is golden brown with slightly darker edges, and the melted cheese is light yellow and slightly bubbly. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and to the left, several slices of plain bread are stacked. On the right side, there are some whole onions placed nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this classic dish effortlessly. Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to contrast the rich broth. The traditional choice is a generous sprinkle of Manchego cheese, which melts beautifully over the warm bread and infuses the soup with its characteristic tangy creaminess.

Side Dishes

Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe pairs wonderfully with light salads, such as a crisp mixed greens salad dressed with sherry vinegar. Another excellent companion is a plate of Spanish olives or roasted vegetables, which complement the soup’s depth without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming dinner party, serve the soup in individual oven-safe crocks topped with toasted baguette and cheese, then briefly broil for a bubbly golden crust. Adding a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top can add layers of flavor and beautiful presentation appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container and keep the toasted baguette slices separate to maintain their crunch. When ready to eat, just reheat gently on the stovetop, then add fresh toasted bread and cheese for the best experience.

Freezing

Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe freezes beautifully without losing flavor. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best texture, add fresh toasted bread and cheese after reheating rather than freezing with the soup.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on low heat to prevent scorching and to keep the flavors mellow. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Toast fresh baguette slices during this time and add cheese just before serving to recapture that fresh-from-the-oven magic of the original preparation.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Manchego?

Absolutely! While Manchego is traditional and delivers a wonderful flavor, Parmesan or even a mild Gruyere can work beautifully as a melty topping. Each brings its unique touch, so feel free to experiment based on what you love or have on hand.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Yes, to keep it vegan, use vegetable broth and skip the cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. The caramelized onions and paprika will keep the soup full of rich, satisfying flavor without any animal products.

Why does the soup take so long to caramelize the onions?

Slow caramelization is key because it allows the onions to develop deep sweetness and a rich golden color without burning. Rushing this process over high heat can lead to bitter flavors, so patience truly pays off in the taste of the final Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe.

Can I blend the soup for a smoother consistency?

Definitely! If you prefer a velvety texture, you can use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup before serving. This approach provides a different but equally delicious take on the classic.

What’s the best bread to use for this soup?

Baguette slices are traditional due to their crusty exterior and airy inside, perfect for soaking up the broth while holding their shape. Stale bread works great too, and toasting it before serving enhances its texture and flavor wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Sopa de Cebolla Clásica: Classic Spanish Onion Soup Recipe is like welcoming a warm hug in a bowl. Its simplicity and heart make it a go-to for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something deeply satisfying. I encourage you to take your time with the caramelization, savor the aromas, and enjoy the comforting magic this classic Spanish delight brings to your table.