Name: French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 27 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 tbsp salted butter; 1 small white onion, minced; 2 heads of garlic (24 cloves), sliced in half; 2 thyme sprigs (stems discarded); ½ tsp dried sage; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 tbsp cornstarch; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated + the rind; 3 large eggs; ½ baguette (about a 12-inch piece), cut diagonally into ⅓-inch slices; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated; Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing

If you’re craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug from the inside, the French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine velvety, garlicky soup infused with aromatic herbs and enriched with creamy Parmesan, perfectly paired with crunchy, golden crostinis crowned with melted cheese. This dish is not only a celebration of simple, hearty ingredients but also a testament to the magic that happens when classic French flavors come together in a soul-soothing meal. Whether it’s a chilly night or a cozy weekend, this recipe will quickly become your new favorite go-to for deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A wooden bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding two whole garlic bulbs and several peeled garlic cloves. The bowl has a smooth texture with natural wood grain patterns visible. The garlic bulbs are white and round with a slightly rough skin, while the peeled cloves are smoother, small, and pale yellow, scattered loosely in the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the list fool you—these humble, straightforward ingredients each play a key role in creating layers of rich flavor and irresistible texture. From the sweetness of caramelized garlic and onion to the sharp, nutty Parmesan, every component is essential in crafting this unforgettable French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe.

2 tbsp salted butter: Adds a creamy base and depth to the sautéed garlic and onions.
1 small white onion (minced): Brings subtle sweetness that balances the robust garlic flavor.
2 heads of garlic (24 cloves, sliced in half): The superstar ingredient delivering bold, mellow garlic essence.
2 thyme sprigs (stems discarded): Introduces an earthy herbal note that complements the garlic beautifully.
½ tsp dried sage: A whisper of sage adds warmth and complexity to the broth.
8 cups chicken broth: The soup’s flavorful foundation, offering savory richness.
2 tbsp cornstarch: Ensures the soup has a silky, slightly thickened texture.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated + the rind): Infuses the soup with a cheesy umami punch.
3 large eggs: Beaten in to create a luscious, velvety finish without heaviness.
½ baguette (about a 12-inch piece, cut diagonally in ⅓-inch slices): Perfect for crisp crostinis that soak up the soup wonderfully.
1 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated): For topping the crostinis with a golden, bubbly crust.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds crispness and flavor to the crostinis when brushed on before baking.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe

Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics

Start by melting that luscious salted butter over medium heat. When it’s hot and ready, toss in your minced onion, garlic halves, thyme sprigs, dried sage, and a pinch of salt. This part is where the base of your soup begins to develop amazing flavors. Let everything gently soften on low for around five minutes until the garlic starts to release its irresistible aroma and turns tender but not browned. This slow sautéing deepens the sweetness and mellows garlic’s bite perfectly.

Step 2: Building the Broth

Next, sprinkle in the cornstarch and stir it in so it can do its magic thickening work. Then pour in the chicken broth along with the Parmesan rind for that savory cheese undertone. Bring the whole pot to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 15 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld and the broth to soak up the fragrant herb and garlic notes.

Step 3: Creating a Smooth Soup

Once simmered, it’s time to blend. Use an immersion blender right in the pot or carefully transfer to a regular blender. Puree the soup until silky smooth and velvety. Return it to the stove, bring to a simmer once again, and take it off the heat, preparing for the important step that gives it such a luxurious texture.

Step 4: Tempering the Eggs

Beat your eggs in a large bowl or measuring cup. Slowly add 2 to 3 cups of the hot soup into the eggs in a slow drizzle while whisking constantly. This process is called tempering—it warms the eggs gently so they won’t scramble when added back to the hot soup. Pour this lovely mixture back into the pot, turn your heat back on low to medium, and let the soup come back to a soft simmer. The eggs will thicken it just right, creating that signature creamy consistency without cream.

Step 5: Preparing the Cheesy Crostinis

While your soup simmers to perfection, preheat your oven to 425℉ and slice your baguette diagonally into thin ⅓-inch slices. Arrange these slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, brush both sides lightly with extra virgin olive oil for crispiness, and generously sprinkle with finely grated Parmesan cheese. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is beautifully golden and the bread crisps up with just the right crunch. If you want an extra bubbly topping, a quick turn under the broiler for about a minute will do wonders.

How to Serve French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe

A clear glass measuring cup sits on a white marbled surface, filled about halfway with a smooth, bright yellow liquid. A woman's hand is holding a small fork inside the cup, gently stirring the yellow mixture, while a second clear glass measuring cup is tilted above, pouring a pale, creamy liquid into the yellow mixture below. The scene captures the mixing process clearly with soft natural lighting, showing the glossy texture of the liquids in contrast with the white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives atop the soup for a fresh pop of color and mild herbal brightness. A few cracked black peppercorns or a thin drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also make each serving look as appetizing as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This warm soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A simple roasted vegetable side can also complement the garlic-forward main without competing with its deep flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic touch, serve the soup directly in small, oven-safe crock bowls with a cheesy crostini resting on top or alongside for dipping. Another fun idea is to ladle the soup into small cups for a charming appetizer, letting guests toast their crostinis to dunk in the garlicky goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe cools, store the soup separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The crostinis are best kept in a separate container at room temperature so they stay crispy and don’t turn soggy.

Freezing

This soup freezes well without the crostinis. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When thawing, do it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain even warmth and avoid curdling from the eggs. Refresh your crostinis by popping them back into a warm oven for a few minutes to recapture that perfect crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for a high-quality vegetable broth, and your soup will still be bursting with deep, savory notes.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are excellent alternatives that provide a similar sharp, nutty flavor to Parmesan.

Is it okay to use whole garlic cloves instead of sliced?

Slicing the garlic helps release more flavor and cook evenly, but if you prefer a milder garlic presence, you can mince or leave cloves whole for a subtler punch.

Can I prepare the crostinis without cheese?

Of course! Brushing the slices with olive oil and toasting them creates a lovely base, though the cheesy topping makes for a truly indulgent finish.

How thick should I slice the baguette?

Cutting the baguette into ⅓-inch slices on a diagonal provides the ideal crispy bite and enough surface area for cheesy goodness without overpowering each spoonful of soup.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish to impress family or simply treat yourself, the French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe is a must-try. Its blend of rich, silky soup with crunchy, cheesy crostinis offers an irresistible combo you’ll want to savor again and again. Cozy up and enjoy every spoonful—you’re about to discover a new classic comfort food favorite!

French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need