French Onion Soup Pizza Recipe
If you love the deep, savory taste of classic French onion soup and crave a fun twist on your regular pizza night, then this French Onion Soup Pizza is exactly what you need. Imagine the rich, caramelized onions mingling with melted Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses on a perfectly crisp crust, all coming together to bring the warm flavors of a comforting soup into a cheesy, crispy pie. This dish is a cozy, delicious fusion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special weekend indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make French Onion Soup Pizza is a breeze with a handful of carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the sweet, caramelized onions to the nutty Gruyère cheese, enhancing every bite with layers of flavor, mouthwatering texture, and inviting color.
- Pizza Dough: The base that provides a golden, sturdy crust perfect for holding all those rich toppings.
- Butter: Essential for sautéing onions to that irresistible caramelized perfection.
- Onions (4 medium, thinly sliced): The star of the dish, slowly cooked to develop a sweet, deep flavor.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the natural sweetness of the onions!
- Fresh Thyme (3 sprigs): Adds a fragrant, herbal note that brightens the whole pizza.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a gentle punch of garlic flavor that complements, not overpowers.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp): Offers mild heat and complexity.
- Red Wine (½ cup): Used to deglaze the pan, heightening flavor with a touch of acidity and richness.
- Beef Stock (1 cup): Brings a savory depth reminiscent of the classic soup.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy layer everyone loves.
- Gruyère Cheese (6 oz): Adds a slightly nutty flavor that perfectly mimics the cheesy topping of French onion soup.
- Corn Meal (3 TBSP): Prevents sticking and creates that lovely pizza crust texture.
- Olive Oil (a drizzle): Strengthens the crust so you can pick up each slice without it falling apart.
How to Make French Onion Soup Pizza
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
The magic starts with gently cooking your butter, onions, and salt in a large pot over medium heat. Resist the urge to stir constantly—the secret to that perfect French onion flavor is letting the onions sit and slowly brown, giving them those beautiful caramelized edges. It takes about 20 minutes, so this is the perfect time to prepare your other ingredients.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Begin Deglazing
Once your onions are soft and richly browned with an irresistible sweet aroma, stir in fresh thyme, minced garlic, and black pepper. Then it’s time for the red wine to work its magic. Pour it in and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot, releasing those caramelized bits full of flavor. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the wine is nearly gone—this reduction intensifies the taste.
Step 3: Reduce the Beef Stock
Next, add beef stock and raise the heat slightly. Let it cook down until thickened and the liquid has almost completely reduced, about another 3 to 5 minutes. This creates that savory, concentrated base reminiscent of the hearty soup, but perfectly suited for your pizza topping. Take the pot off the heat and set it aside.
Step 4: Prepare Your Pizza Base
Sprinkle cornmeal evenly over the bottom of your cast iron pan to prevent sticking and deliver a delightfully textured crust. Gently press your pizza dough into the pan, making sure it reaches just up the edges for that classic pan crust style. Drizzle olive oil over the dough to help create a strong yet tender crust that will hold up to the delicious, moist toppings.
Step 5: Layer the Cheese and Onions
Start by spreading shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough for a melty foundation. Remove the thyme sprigs from your pot of caramelized onions, then carefully transfer the onions onto the cheese, letting any excess liquid drip off so your crust stays crisp. Finally, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese generously on top—it’s the crowning glory that brings a nutty, sophisticated flavor to this pizza masterpiece.
Step 6: Bake Your French Onion Soup Pizza
Pop your pizza into the preheated 425-degree oven for 12 to 14 minutes. This bake time allows the crust to turn golden and crispy while the cheeses melt into that luscious, bubbly layer that’s pure comfort on a plate.
How to Serve French Onion Soup Pizza

Garnishes
Finish your French Onion Soup Pizza with a few fresh thyme leaves scattered on top for a burst of herbal freshness that balances the rich layers of cheese and onions. A light drizzle of olive oil right as it comes out of the oven adds a lovely sheen and extra flavor punch.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette—something crisp and acidic to cut through the richness. A bowl of pickled vegetables or a classic French side like a light ratatouille can also complement the pizza’s umami flavors and make your meal feel well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your French Onion Soup Pizza on a rustic wooden board alongside small ramekins of caramelized onions or melted cheese for extra indulgence. Cutting the pizza into small squares also makes for a fantastic appetizer at parties, inviting everyone to savor this unexpected, delightful twist on pizza night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover French Onion Soup Pizza keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to let it cool completely before covering to prevent sogginess, so you can enjoy that satisfying crust even later.
Freezing
You can freeze slices individually in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. When freezing, place parchment paper between slices to keep them from sticking together, making it easy to reheat just the right amount whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy crust and melty cheese, reheat your French Onion Soup Pizza slices in a skillet over medium heat or in a 375-degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain those perfectly crisp edges.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese if I don’t have Gruyère?
Absolutely! While Gruyère adds a unique nutty flavor, Swiss cheese or even a mild cheddar can work as substitutes. Just choose something that melts well and complements the onions.
Is it okay to skip the red wine in the recipe?
Yes, you can leave out the wine if you prefer. The beef stock will still provide plenty of rich, savory flavor, but the wine does add an extra layer of depth that’s worth trying if you have it on hand.
Can I make the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Definitely! Caramelized onions can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This can actually save you time on pizza night and still deliver that deep, sweet flavor.
What type of pizza dough works best for this recipe?
Any basic pizza dough works well, whether homemade or store-bought. Room temperature dough is best for easier handling and more even baking.
Is this pizza suitable for vegetarians?
This version uses beef stock, but you can make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable stock and skipping any meat-based ingredients. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Soup Pizza is a total game-changer—combining the warmth and depth of French onion soup with the cheesy, crispy goodness of pizza creates a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for friends or simply indulging in some comforting flavor, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bring a little French café magic straight into your kitchen!
PrintFrench Onion Soup Pizza Recipe
This French Onion Soup Pizza combines the rich, deep flavors of caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese with the crispy, buttery crust of a pan-style pizza. Inspired by classic French onion soup, this innovative recipe blends the comforting taste of soup into a hearty, shareable pizza perfect for a unique dinner or appetizer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 large pizza (4–6 servings) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Caramelizing
- Cuisine: French-American Fusion
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Pizza Dough and Base
- 1 Pizza Dough, room temperature
- 3 TBSP Corn Meal
- Drizzle of Olive Oil
- 1 TBSP Butter
Onion Mixture
- 4 Medium Onions, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp Salt
- 3 sprigs Fresh Thyme
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- ½ cup Red Wine
- 1 cup Beef Stock
Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 6 oz Gruyère Cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and add the thinly sliced onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring minimally, to caramelize the onions evenly, which will take about 20 minutes. The goal is to develop a deep brown color for the richest flavor.
- Add Aromatics: Once the onions are soft and fragrant, stir in the fresh thyme sprigs, minced garlic, and black pepper for added aroma and depth.
- Deglaze with Red Wine: Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to incorporate browned bits. Continue to cook over medium heat until the wine has fully reduced, about 3-5 minutes, concentrating the flavors.
- Add Beef Stock: Pour in the beef stock and bring to medium-high heat, then cook down until nearly all the liquid has evaporated and the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Pizza Base: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Sprinkle corn meal evenly in a cast iron skillet to prevent sticking and to add texture. Place the pizza dough in the skillet and press it outwards to the edges, slightly up the sides to create a pan-style crust. Drizzle olive oil over the dough to help create a crispy, sturdy crust.
- Add Cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough for a melty base layer.
- Top with Onions: Remove thyme sprigs from the onion mixture and set aside for garnish. Using a fork or tongs, layer the caramelized onion mixture over the mozzarella, letting any excess liquid drip off before adding.
- Add Gruyère Cheese: Scatter the shredded Gruyère cheese on top of the onions to create a rich, bubbly, golden finish when baked.
- Bake the Pizza: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove pizza from oven, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, slice, and enjoy while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to cook the onions slowly and stir minimally to develop maximum caramelization and flavor.
- Red wine can be omitted if preferred, but it adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the best pan-style crust texture, but a pizza stone or baking sheet can substitute.
- Allow the dough to come to room temperature before stretching for easier handling.
- Gruyère cheese can be substituted with Emmental or Swiss cheese if needed.
- For a vegetarian version, swap beef stock with a rich vegetable stock.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of pizza)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: French Onion Soup Pizza, caramelized onion pizza, Gruyère cheese pizza, pan-style pizza, savory pizza recipe