French onion soup is a comforting, savory dish that combines deeply caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and a decadent layer of melted cheese. Its complex flavors and hearty nature make it an ideal candidate for pairing with a satisfying sandwich. Whether you're enjoying a cozy lunch, a casual dinner, or a sophisticated meal, the right sandwich can enhance your French onion soup experience. This guide explores a variety of sandwiches that complement the rich and flavorful characteristics of French onion soup.
Classic Sandwiches
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A grilled cheese sandwich is a timeless companion to French onion soup. The melty, gooey cheese and crispy bread provide a delightful contrast to the soup's texture. Opt for a combination of cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère to echo the flavors in the soup. Adding a touch of caramelized onions to the sandwich can further enhance the flavor synergy between the two dishes.
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich, with its layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, pairs wonderfully with French onion soup. The tangy sauerkraut and savory corned beef create a flavorful contrast to the rich and sweet onions in the soup. The sandwich's hearty nature complements the soup's depth, making it a satisfying meal.
Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich
A turkey and cranberry sandwich offers a lighter, yet flavorful, option to pair with French onion soup. The turkey provides a lean protein, while the cranberry sauce adds a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the soup's savory profile. For added texture and flavor, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or a slice of Swiss cheese.
Gourmet Sandwiches
Croque Monsieur
The Croque Monsieur is a sophisticated choice for pairing with French onion soup. This French classic features ham and Gruyère cheese between slices of bread, which are then dipped in a creamy béchamel sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. The rich, savory flavors of the Croque Monsieur complement the complex notes of the French onion soup, creating an elevated dining experience.
French Dip Sandwich
A French dip sandwich, with its thinly sliced roast beef and melted cheese on a crusty baguette, is a hearty pairing for French onion soup. The sandwich’s savory beef and gooey cheese echo the soup’s flavors, while the crusty bread provides a satisfying texture. Serve it with a side of au jus for dipping, which can be enjoyed alongside or as a complement to the soup.
Portobello Mushroom Sandwich
For a vegetarian option, a Portobello mushroom sandwich is a flavorful choice. Grilled or roasted Portobello mushrooms provide a meaty texture that complements the richness of French onion soup. Add some caramelized onions, goat cheese, and arugula for a gourmet touch. This sandwich offers a hearty yet meat-free alternative that pairs beautifully with the soup.
Simple and Quick Sandwiches
Ham and Swiss Sandwich
A ham and Swiss sandwich is an easy and satisfying option that complements French onion soup. The salty ham and nutty Swiss cheese create a harmonious pairing with the soup’s flavors. For a quick and delicious meal, use good-quality deli ham and fresh Swiss cheese on crusty bread.
Chicken Caesar Sandwich
A Chicken Caesar sandwich, featuring grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing on a crusty roll, offers a flavorful contrast to French onion soup. The creamy Caesar dressing and crispy lettuce add freshness and texture that balance the richness of the soup. This sandwich is a great choice for a lighter yet fulfilling option.
BLT Sandwich
The classic BLT sandwich, with its layers of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, provides a satisfying and refreshing contrast to French onion soup. The crisp bacon and fresh vegetables offer a light and flavorful pairing that complements the soup’s depth. Use thick-cut bacon and ripe tomatoes for the best results.
Grains and Starches
Cheese and Ham Panini
A cheese and ham panini is a great choice to pair with French onion soup. The panini’s melted cheese and ham add a savory, satisfying element that complements the soup's flavors. For a gourmet touch, consider adding some caramelized onions or a layer of Dijon mustard.
Pesto Chicken Sandwich
A pesto chicken sandwich, with grilled chicken, basil pesto, and fresh mozzarella, offers a flavorful and aromatic pairing with French onion soup. The basil pesto adds a fresh, herby flavor that contrasts nicely with the soup’s richness. For added texture, use a ciabatta or baguette for the sandwich.
Vegetable and Salad Sandwiches
Caprese Sandwich
A Caprese sandwich, featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, provides a light and refreshing complement to French onion soup. The sandwich’s fresh and tangy flavors balance the soup’s richness, creating a well-rounded meal.
Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich
A Mediterranean veggie sandwich, with roasted red peppers, hummus, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, offers a flavorful and hearty option for pairing with French onion soup. The sandwich’s vibrant flavors and textures provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory soup.
Avocado and Turkey Sandwich
An avocado and turkey sandwich is a satisfying and nutritious choice that pairs well with French onion soup. The creamy avocado adds richness, while the lean turkey provides a flavorful protein. Add some fresh greens and a light vinaigrette for a balanced and delicious meal.
Sauces and Condiments
Mustard and Mayonnaise
Adding a touch of mustard or mayonnaise to your sandwich can enhance the overall flavor profile and complement French onion soup. Mustard adds a tangy kick, while mayonnaise provides creaminess. Experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon or honey mustard, to find your favorite combination.
Horseradish Sauce
Horseradish sauce offers a zesty and spicy addition to sandwiches paired with French onion soup. Its bold flavor contrasts nicely with the soup's rich and sweet onions. Spread a thin layer of horseradish sauce on your sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
Herbed Aioli
Herbed aioli, made with garlic and fresh herbs, provides a flavorful and creamy addition to sandwiches. Its rich texture and aromatic flavors complement the soup’s complexity. Use it as a spread on your sandwich or as a dipping sauce for a gourmet touch.
Salads
Mixed Green Salad
A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing and crisp side dish that complements French onion soup. The salad’s fresh vegetables and tangy dressing offer a bright contrast to the soup’s richness. Consider adding some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and radishes for extra crunch.
Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing, pairs well with French onion soup. The salad’s crunchy texture and savory flavors provide a satisfying contrast to the soup’s depth. For added flavor, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Waldorf Salad
A Waldorf salad, featuring crisp apples, celery, walnuts, and a creamy dressing, offers a light and refreshing side dish that complements French onion soup. The salad’s sweet and crunchy elements provide a pleasant contrast to the soup’s rich flavors. Add some grapes or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
Desserts
Apple Crisp
Apple crisp, with its warm, spiced apples and crumbly topping, is a comforting and delicious dessert to enjoy after French onion soup. The dessert’s sweet and slightly tart flavors provide a satisfying end to the meal. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Chocolate Mousse
Chocolate mousse, with its rich and creamy texture, offers a decadent dessert option that complements French onion soup. The mousse’s smooth and velvety texture provides a luxurious finish to the meal. Garnish with some fresh berries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for added flair.
Berry Parfait
A berry parfait, with layers of fresh berries, yogurt, and granola, offers a light and refreshing dessert option. The parfait’s tangy yogurt and sweet berries provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of French onion soup. It’s a great choice for a lighter, yet satisfying, end to the meal.
Beverages
Red Wine
A glass of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the rich flavors of French onion soup and its accompanying sandwich. The wine’s robust flavors and tannins pair well with the savory notes of the soup and sandwich. Serve at room temperature for the best experience.
White Wine
A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, offers a refreshing contrast to French onion soup. The wine’s acidity and bright flavors provide a nice balance to the soup’s richness. Serve chilled for a light and enjoyable pairing.
Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is a refreshing and non-alcoholic option that pairs well with French onion soup and its accompanying sandwich. Its effervescence and clean taste cleanse the palate and complement the meal. Add a slice of lemon or lime for a hint of citrus.
Conclusion
When it comes to pairing sandwiches with French onion soup, there are countless delicious options to explore. Whether you prefer classic choices like grilled cheese or gourmet options like Croque Monsieur, the right sandwich can enhance the rich, savory flavors of the soup. From simple and quick options to more elaborate gourmet creations, there’s a perfect sandwich to suit every taste and occasion. Experiment with these suggestions to find your ideal combination and enjoy a memorable and satisfying meal.
