This Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is a delightful fusion that brings together the creamy goodness of French onion soup with the savory flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak. Perfect for cozy evenings, gatherings, or a unique twist to your dinner routine, this dish will impress everyone at the table. The combination of caramelized onions, tender beef, and gooey cheeses creates an irresistible bowl of comfort that’s both keto-friendly and gluten-free.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Fusion: Enjoy the best of both worlds with rich cheesiness and hearty beef.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup without hassle.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal for dinner parties or family meals, it suits various occasions perfectly.
- Comfort Food: This warm and filling soup is sure to satisfy any comfort food cravings.
- Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs and gluten-free, making it suitable for health-conscious eaters.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make your preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Dutch oven or soup pot
- Skillet
- Rubber spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
Why These Tools Matter
- Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Perfect for sautéing onions evenly and simmering your soup without spills.
- Skillet: Ideal for quickly cooking your beef and veggies while ensuring they stay tender.
- Rubber spatula: Great for scraping up those delicious browned bits from the pan during deglazing.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 3 large yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup cooking apple juice
- 4 cups beef stock
For Toppings
- 1 Keto Everything Bun
- 1/2 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 10 ounces ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Gruyere cheese

How to Make Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
Step 1: Heat Oil and Sauté Onions
- Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and sauté until soft, about 12 minutes.
Step 2: Caramelize Onions
- Add the butter to the pot.
- Continue cooking the onions until they begin to brown, which should take around another 10 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Soup Base
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in the cooking apple juice to deglaze the pan.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Add Stock and Simmer
- Pour in the beef stock.
- Bring it to a boil before reducing heat to low; let it simmer for approximately 25 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare Beef and Peppers
- While simmering, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté bell peppers with a pinch of salt and pepper for about 5 minutes.
- Add thinly sliced ribeye steak; cook until desired doneness is reached.
- Incorporate cooked peppers and steak into the soup, adjusting salt if needed.
Step 7: Assemble Soup in Ramekins
- Discard bay leaves from soup.
- Divide soup among four large oven-proof ramekins.
- Top each ramekin with two pieces of toasted bun and a slice of provolone cheese.
- Evenly divide shredded Gruyere cheese among ramekins.
Step 8: Broil Until Golden
- Preheat your oven’s broiler.
- Place ramekins under broiler until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 9: Serve
Garnish each serving with fresh thyme and a sprinkle of black pepper before enjoying your hearty meal!
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
Serving your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is all about enhancing its hearty and comforting flavors. This soup works beautifully as a main dish or paired with lighter sides, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Individual Ramekins
- Serve each portion in individual oven-proof ramekins for an elegant touch. This presentation not only looks appealing but also keeps the soup warm longer.
Fresh Herbs Garnish
- Top with fresh thyme or parsley just before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the aromatic flavor profile of the soup.
Toasted Keto Buns
- Pair the soup with toasted keto buns on the side. They provide a great vehicle for dipping into the rich broth and cheese.
Side Salad
- Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
Crusty Bread Option
- For those who are not following keto, offer crusty bread as an option. This classic pairing allows for delightful dipping into the cheesy broth.
Cheese Platter
- Create a small cheese platter with assorted cheeses. This can be a delightful addition that enhances the overall dining experience.
How to Perfect Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
Perfecting your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Quality Beef: Select high-quality ribeye or flank steak for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time caramelizing onions; low heat will enhance their sweetness and depth.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and pepper incrementally to achieve perfect seasoning.
- Broil for Texture: Broil until cheese is bubbly and golden brown, adding a delightful texture contrast.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t shy away from garnishing with fresh herbs; they brighten up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds color and nutrition to your meal.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy cauliflower mash provides a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, complementing the soup’s flavors.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add fiber while maintaining a flavorful profile that pairs well.
- Zucchini Fries: Baked or air-fried zucchini fries provide a crunchy side that’s both tasty and healthy.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, balancing out the warmth of the soup beautifully.
- Pickled Vegetables: A small bowl of assorted pickled vegetables can serve as a zesty counterpoint to the rich flavors in the soup.
- Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks: These low-carb breadsticks are perfect for dipping in your cheesy soup while keeping it keto-friendly!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup even more delicious. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
- Using the wrong onions: Always opt for yellow onions; they caramelize beautifully and provide a sweet flavor essential for this soup.
- Skipping the caramelization: Don’t rush the process. Take your time to caramelize the onions properly, ensuring they develop a rich flavor.
- Not seasoning enough: Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. A lack of seasoning can lead to bland soup.
- Overcooking the beef: Keep an eye on your thinly sliced steak. Cook it just until it’s done, or it may become tough.
- Ignoring the cheese quality: Choose high-quality Gruyere and provolone cheeses for optimal melting and flavor. Don’t settle for pre-shredded options.
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and preserve freshness.
Freezing Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
- Duration: Freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, to ensure even warming without overcooking.
- Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup?
Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is a comforting dish that combines the flavors of a traditional French onion soup with elements of a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is already keto-friendly as it uses low-carb ingredients like beef stock and keto buns.
How do I customize my Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup?
Feel free to add different vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini, or switch up the cheeses based on your preference.
What can I serve alongside this soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with a simple salad or some keto-friendly breadsticks.
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
The total time for making Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is about one hour, with 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup is a delightful fusion that brings together two beloved dishes into one incredible bowl. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, ensuring every bowl is unique and tailored just for you!
Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Warm up with this delicious Philly Cheesesteak French Onion Soup, a comforting blend of classic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This unique dish combines the rich, savory essence of traditional French onion soup with tender beef and gooey cheese, creating a cozy meal perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings. With caramelized onions, hearty beef, and a delightful cheese topping, this soup is not only satisfying but also keto-friendly and gluten-free. Whether served in individual ramekins or shared from a pot, it promises to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 3 large yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or coconut aminos
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces ribeye steak or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 4 cups beef stock
Instructions
- Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft (about 12 minutes).
- Stir in butter, cooking until onions are browned (another 10 minutes).
- Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper; cook for about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze with cooking apple juice and scrape any bits from the pot.
- Pour in beef stock; bring to a boil then reduce heat and let simmer for approximately 25 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat remaining oil and sauté bell peppers for about 5 minutes before adding the steak; cook until desired doneness.
- Combine cooked steak and peppers into the soup; adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Divide soup into oven-proof ramekins; top with toasted bun pieces and cheeses.
- Broil until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop/Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg



