Campbell’s Cream Of Onion Soup Recipe

Campbell’s Cream of Onion Soup has long been a comforting staple in many kitchens. It’s that classic creamy, savory soup with a smooth texture that adds a burst of flavor, warming the soul with each spoonful. Whether you’re using it in recipes or enjoying it on its own, Campbell’s Cream of Onion Soup holds a special place in the hearts of many. But what makes it so universally loved?

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Campbell’s Cream of Onion Soup, explore a delicious homemade recipe, and provide you with insights on making the soup from scratch. You’ll learn about the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips for perfection, and even some variations to keep things exciting. By the end, you’ll be a pro at making your own rich and flavorful version of this creamy onion soup!

Campbell’s Cream Of Onion Soup Recipe

Ready to recreate this creamy and indulgent classic at home? Let’s jump into making Campbell’s Cream of Onion Soup from scratch. The great thing about this recipe is that it captures the essence of the store-bought version, with an extra layer of richness and freshness that only homemade food can bring.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients to make the creaminess shine and bring the distinct onion flavor forward.

• Onions (4 large) – The foundation of this soup is the humble onion. You want to slice them thin so they can caramelize beautifully during cooking.
• Butter (4 tbsp) – This adds richness and depth to the soup. You can also use olive oil if you prefer a lighter version, but butter is the way to go for a silky finish.
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup) – A thickening agent for the soup that helps create that velvety texture. It’s essential to cook the flour properly to avoid a raw taste.
• Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups) – Adds the savory base of the soup. You can use homemade stock if you want to elevate the flavor, but store-bought works just fine in a pinch.
• Heavy cream (1 cup) – This is what will give the soup its luscious, creamy consistency. Whole milk can be used for a lighter option, but heavy cream is ideal for that rich, luxurious texture.
• Salt (to taste) – Always season to taste, but a pinch of salt will elevate the onion’s natural sweetness and balance the creaminess.
• Black pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds a bit of heat and spice, complementing the natural sweetness of the onions.
• Thyme (1 tsp, optional) – A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with the onions and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Bay leaf (1) – Adds an aromatic touch to the broth, deepening the overall taste.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced, optional) – Adds a lovely background flavor that complements the onions and brings an extra layer of richness.

Cooking Instructions

Once you have all the ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to start cooking!

1. Sauté The Onions

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring frequently. The goal here is to caramelize the onions. This process can take around 15-20 minutes, but it’s worth the time. You’ll want the onions to become soft, golden brown, and sweet.

2. Add Garlic (Optional)

   • If you’re including garlic, add the minced garlic in the last 2 minutes of caramelizing. Let it cook until fragrant but be careful not to burn it.

3. Add Flour

   • Sprinkle in the flour and stir well. This will help thicken the soup. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour. You want it to turn slightly golden.

4. Pour In The Broth

   • Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Add in the thyme and bay leaf if you’re using them.
   • Let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken.

5. Add Cream And Season

   • Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

6. Blend (Optional)

   • For an extra smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency. Alternatively, if you prefer a bit of texture, you can leave it as is for a chunkier version.

7. Serve And Enjoy

   • Serve your homemade cream of onion soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs, croutons, or a sprinkle of cheese if you like.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a key role in bringing depth and flavor to the dish:

• Onions: When caramelized, onions release their natural sugars, transforming from sharp and pungent to sweet and savory. The onions are the backbone of this soup, creating a robust, comforting base.
• Butter and Flour: These form a roux, which is the secret to getting that creamy, velvety texture without relying on too much cream or milk.
• Broth: The broth is the savory liquid that enriches the soup and adds the savory umami flavor. Chicken broth gives a deeper, richer taste, but vegetable broth can be just as good for a lighter alternative.
• Heavy Cream: This is what makes the soup luxurious. It adds smoothness and balances the savory onions with a rich, smooth mouthfeel.
• Herbs and Spices: Thyme and bay leaves bring an aromatic herbal backdrop that complements the sweetness of the onions. Black pepper provides just the right amount of heat to round out the flavors.

Expert Tips

To truly master the art of making Campbell’s-style Cream of Onion Soup at home, here are some expert tips to help you:

• Slow and Steady Onion Caramelization: Patience is key. Don’t rush the caramelization process. The longer you cook the onions, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll become.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh thyme adds a much more vibrant flavor. You can even toss in a sprig of rosemary for a different twist.
• Adjust the Thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, simply thin it out with a little more broth or water. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
• Blending Options: If you prefer a silky, smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. For more texture, blend only half of the soup.
• Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for a few days and even freezes beautifully. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing, and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Recipe Variations

While this classic recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on Campbell’s Cream of Onion Soup:

• Add Cheese: Stir in some shredded Gruyère or cheddar for a cheesy twist that adds richness and depth.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat and complexity.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and cream (like coconut milk or cashew cream), and opt for vegetable broth to make it vegan-friendly.
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon to change the soup’s flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: Throw in some chopped carrots, celery, or leeks for added texture and flavor, turning the soup into a more hearty meal.

Final Words

Making homemade Campbell’s Cream of Onion Soup is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. The rich, velvety texture, combined with the deep, sweet flavor of caramelized onions, makes it a comforting dish for any occasion. Whether you’re making it as a starter for a dinner party, a cozy lunch, or a base for other recipes (like casseroles), this soup is sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a bowl of creamy, savory goodness that rivals anything from a can.