Name: French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1½ lbs (680 g) chuck steak, cubed; 2 tsp coarse sea salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 2–3 tbsp olive oil, as needed; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 5 large onions, thinly sliced; Large pinch of salt; 1 tsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp fresh thyme; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tsp Dijon mustard (or to taste); 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional); 1 tbsp flour; 2½ cups (620 ml) beef broth; 2 bay leaves; 1 white baguette, sliced; Olive oil, for brushing; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1½ cups (150 g) Gruyère cheese, coarsely grated; 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; ½ tbsp fresh thyme, to garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 5 reviews

If you have ever craved a stew that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then the French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. This dish brilliantly marries the rich, savory flavors of slow-cooked beef and deeply caramelized onions with the irresistible charm of a crunchy, cheesy baguette topping straight from French onion soup tradition. Every spoonful is a harmony of textures and tastes that invites you to slow down, savor, and share. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your favorite recipes to turn to for special dinners or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view of a white deep pan with light blue handles filled with thinly sliced onions that are caramelized to a golden-brown color with a slightly shiny texture from cooking oil and bits of herbs visible across the layers of onions. The onions look soft, slightly wilted, and sticky with light seasoning specks, sitting evenly spread in the pan. The pan is on a white marbled textured surface, and there is no other object in the frame. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to creating this unforgettable French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the tender beef, the buttery onions, or the sharp Gruyère cheese—that together build layers of texture, color, and bold flavor.

Chuck steak (1½ lbs): The perfect cut for stewing, it becomes meltingly tender when slow-cooked.
Coarse sea salt (2 tsp): Adds a briny depth that enhances the meat and vegetables.
Black pepper (1 tsp): Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
Olive oil (2–3 tbsp): For searing beef and toasting the baguette; use good quality for best flavor.
Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Essential for caramelizing the onions to golden perfection.
Large onions (5, thinly sliced): The star ingredient that provides sweetness and complexity.
Salt (large pinch): Releases moisture from the onions, aiding caramelization.
Brown sugar (1 tsp): Helps bring out the deep caramel notes in the onions.
Fresh thyme (1 tbsp): Adds an earthy, aromatic freshness.
Garlic cloves (4, minced): For a mellow savory undertone.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Brings umami richness.
Dijon mustard (2 tsp): Balances the stew with a gentle tang.
Tomato paste (1 tbsp, optional): Adds a subtle depth and slight sweetness.
Flour (1 tbsp): Used to thicken the stew’s luscious gravy.
Beef broth (2½ cups): The stew’s flavorful base.
Bay leaves (2): Infuse the broth with gentle herbal complexity.
White baguette (1, sliced): For that iconic crunchy, cheesy topping.
Olive oil (for brushing): To crisp the baguette slices.
Dijon mustard (2 tbsp): Spread on the bread for an extra layer of flavor.
Gruyère cheese (1½ cups, grated): Beautifully melts and forms the cheese crown.
Parmesan cheese (3 tbsp, freshly grated): Brings a salty, nutty finish.
Fresh thyme (½ tbsp, to garnish): Adds a pretty finishing touch and aroma.

How to Make French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe

Step 1: Slice the Onions

Start by prepping your onions carefully. Trim their tops but keep the root ends intact to hold the slices together as you cut. Thinly slice each half with a mandoline or sharp knife, ensuring even slices that will caramelize beautifully and melt into the stew, creating that signature sweet, soft texture.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Pat the beef cubes dry—this step is crucial for getting a deep brown crust. Season generously with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches over high heat in olive oil until browned on every side. This browning develops intense flavor through the Maillard reaction. After removing the beef, add a splash of beef broth to the hot pan and scrape up the browned bits; these are flavor gold and will enrich your stew’s base.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

While the beef rests, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice your baguette, discarding the ends, brush the slices lightly with olive oil, and toast them until golden and crisp. These toasted slices will become the perfect sturdy yet crunchy base for the cheesy topping that blankets your stew.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

Melt butter in your casserole, then toss in the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt and brown sugar to coax out their natural sweetness. Cook over medium-high heat until they start to turn golden. Add the minced garlic and thyme, then lower the heat and cook the onions slowly for 20 to 30 minutes until deeply caramelized and utterly tender. Set aside a few spoonfuls for garnish later—it’s a lovely way to showcase their rich flavor and add a burst of oniony sweetness on top.

Step 5: Cook the Stew

With the oven lowered to 320°F (160°C), stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, optional tomato paste, and flour to your onions. Adding flour here helps build that thick, luscious gravy. Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring to avoid lumps and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the seared beef to the pot along with any juices, add bay leaves, cover, and transfer to the oven for about 90 minutes. The low-and-slow cook method tenderizes the beef to fall-apart goodness and blends all those deep onion and herb flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Discard bay leaves and adjust seasoning to taste. Spread Dijon mustard on your toasted baguette slices, then load generously with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. Divide the stew into ovenproof bowls, cover each with the cheesy baguette slices, add extra cheese on top if you desire, and broil until bubbly, golden, and irresistibly melty. Finally, scatter fresh thyme and reserved caramelized onions on top for a stunning presentation and added flavor. Serve piping hot and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe

A close-up of a white bowl filled with several pieces of golden brown bread topped with melted cheese that is stringy as a woman's hand lifts one piece. The cheese is creamy white with a slightly yellow tint and sprinkled with small green herb bits and black pepper. Underneath the cheese are crispy, toasted bread pieces with a rough texture, some browned edges, and a light dusting of grated cheese, set against a blurry background of thick dark sauce or stew. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves and a few reserved caramelized onions add an elegant touch and fresh aroma that cut through the stew’s richness. You can even add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of cracked black pepper to elevate each bowl.

Side Dishes

This stew is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a sharp vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance. If you want to lean into indulgence, creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles make ideal companions to soak up any leftover gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe in individual rustic ramekins or small cast iron skillets, topped directly under the broiler so guests can watch the cheese bubble and brown. You might also try layering the stew in a shallow casserole topped with a single large cheesy baguette slice for family-style dining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge once cooled. Transfer the stew to an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the cheesy bread topping separate to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

The stew freezes wonderfully. Store it in a deep container or freezer bags without the topping for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw it gently in the fridge overnight before reheating and adding fresh toasted baguette and cheese.

Reheating

Reheat the stew gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick. To revive the delicious cheesy baguette layer, toast fresh baguette slices, spread with mustard and cheese, then broil until bubbly before serving atop the warmed stew.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, chuck steak is ideal for its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, but you can also use brisket or short ribs for similar results.

Is the tomato paste necessary in this recipe?

Tomato paste is optional but adds a subtle sweetness and depth. Feel free to omit it if you prefer the stew without this layer or to keep it dairy-friendly.

What if I don’t have Gruyère cheese?

You can substitute with other melting cheeses like Emmental, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar, though Gruyère provides the best classic flavor.

Can this stew be made in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After searing beef and caramelizing onions on the stove, transfer ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours for tender, flavorful results.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the stew, and be sure your Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free versions.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the French Onion Beef Stew with Cheesy Baguette Topping Recipe — its rich layers of flavor, comforting warmth, and lovely textures make it a standout dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a quiet night in, this stew invites you to slow down and savor every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how satisfying a homemade stew can be!