Introduction

The French Onion Veggie Subs are a delicious and savory twist on the classic French onion soup, transformed into a hearty and satisfying sandwich. Combining the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with fresh vegetables and melted cheese, these subs make for a perfect lunch, dinner, or snack that’s both filling and flavorful. The deep umami of the onions, combined with a medley of fresh veggies and the gooey goodness of melted cheese, is an irresistible combination that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

This recipe is easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you are a vegetarian or simply looking for a new sandwich to try, the French Onion Veggie Sub will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days or cozy weekends.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make these veggie subs from start to finish. From caramelizing the onions to assembling the sandwiches, we’ll provide helpful tips to ensure that each component of the sub is cooked to perfection. Get ready to create a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and texture, all inspired by the beloved French onion soup.

Why You’ll Love French Onion Veggie Subs

Rich, Savory Flavor: The caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese provide a rich, comforting flavor that’s perfect for a satisfying sandwich.
Vegetarian-Friendly: These subs are packed with fresh vegetables, making them a great option for vegetarians and those looking to eat more plant-based meals.
Comforting and Hearty: With layers of melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a variety of vegetables, these subs offer a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Customizable: You can easily add or swap ingredients to fit your preferences. Whether you want to add more veggies or experiment with different cheeses, the possibilities are endless.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These veggie subs are great for meal prep, and the caramelized onions and sautéed vegetables can be made in advance and stored for later use.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings (adjustable)
Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-450 calories per serving, depending on portion size and optional add-ins.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 350-450 kcal
Fat: 15-20g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Protein: 15-20g

Ingredients

Baguette or Sub Rolls: 4 medium-sized, crusty baguettes or sub rolls
Onions: 2 large onions, thinly sliced
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Vegetable Broth: ½ cup (120ml) vegetable broth
Mushrooms: 1 cup (150g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced (optional, for added texture)
Bell Peppers: 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
Zucchini: 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
Thyme: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Cheese: 1 cup (100g) shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyère (for a more traditional French onion flavor), plus extra for topping
Provolone or Mozzarella: 1 cup (100g) shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (optional for extra melt)
Salt: ½ teaspoon (to taste)
Pepper: ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Balsamic Vinegar: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a touch of sweetness and depth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, stirring to coat the onions evenly in the oil and butter.
Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes. Allow the onions to become soft, golden, and caramelized. If the onions begin to brown too quickly or stick to the pan, add a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze the pan.
Once the onions are caramelized, add ½ cup of vegetable broth and the thyme. Stir to combine, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, letting the broth reduce and infuse the onions with flavor. If you like a slightly sweeter taste, drizzle in a small amount of balsamic vinegar at this point.
Remove the caramelized onions from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly browned. If you are using mushrooms, add them to the pan and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
Season the sautéed vegetables with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Toast the Baguette or Sub Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the baguettes or sub rolls in half, lengthwise. Place the cut side of the bread face-up on a baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden and slightly crispy.
Once toasted, remove the rolls from the oven and set aside.

4. Assemble the Veggie Subs

Start by placing a generous layer of caramelized onions on the bottom half of each toasted baguette or sub roll.
Top the onions with a portion of the sautéed vegetables, spreading them evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese or Gruyère generously over the vegetables. If you’re using provolone or mozzarella cheese for extra melt, add it on top of the Swiss cheese.
Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be sure to keep an eye on them so the bread doesn’t burn.

5. Serve

Remove the subs from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with fresh thyme if desired. Enjoy these hearty, flavorful sandwiches hot from the oven!

Tips for Perfect French Onion Veggie Subs

Caramelizing the Onions: Caramelizing onions can take some time, but it’s well worth the effort. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the process by using a medium-high heat, but keep in mind that the onions may not become as sweet or tender as when cooked slowly over low heat.
Customize the Veggies: While this recipe calls for bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy. Roasted eggplant, spinach, or even roasted tomatoes would work beautifully in this sub.
Cheese Options: While Swiss and Gruyère cheeses are traditional for French onion soup, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor. The key is to use a cheese that melts well.
Broil for Perfect Melt: To get the cheese perfectly melted and bubbly, broil the subs for just a minute or two. Keep a close eye on them as the broiler can work quickly.
Make-Ahead Tips: The caramelized onions and sautéed veggies can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes assembling the subs even quicker when you’re ready to eat.
Use Crusty Bread: A crusty baguette or sub roll is key to creating the perfect veggie sub. It adds texture and holds up well to the juicy onions and melted cheese.
Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to add extras like avocado, arugula, or even a fried egg to take the veggie sub to the next level.

Variations of French Onion Veggie Subs

While the classic version of these veggie subs is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to switch things up:

Grilled French Onion Veggie Sub: For extra flavor, grill the veggies and onions on an outdoor grill instead of sautéing them. The smoky flavor from the grill will enhance the dish.
Vegan French Onion Veggie Subs: To make these subs vegan, simply swap out the butter and cheese for plant-based alternatives. Use dairy-free cheese and vegan butter to create a delicious plant-based version of this sandwich.
French Onion Veggie Melt: If you prefer a heartier sub, add some cooked lentils or chickpeas to the sautéed vegetables to increase the protein content and make the sub more filling.
Spicy French Onion Veggie Subs: For a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the veggies before adding the cheese.
Italian Style French Onion Veggie Subs: Add some Italian seasoning to the sautéed vegetables and swap out the Swiss cheese for mozzarella or provolone. Top with a bit of marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired twist.

Side Dishes That Pair Well with French Onion Veggie Subs

This veggie sub is hearty enough on its own, but if you’re looking for a side dish to complement it, here are some great options:

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries make a delicious and healthier side that pairs well with the savory veggie sub.
Side Salad: A light side salad with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Pickles: A side of tangy dill pickles adds a nice crunch and acidity that balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Tomato Soup: For a more comforting meal, serve the subs with a bowl of creamy tomato soup. The combo of soup and sandwich is always a winner.
Chips: Classic potato chips or vegetable chips offer a crunchy side that complements the soft texture of the sub.

Conclusion

The French Onion Veggie Subs are a delicious and satisfying sandwich that brings together the flavors of French onion soup with fresh vegetables and melted cheese. With their rich, savory taste and customizable ingredients, they make the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, dinner, or snack, these subs are sure to hit the spot.

By following the simple steps and tips in this guide, you can easily recreate this flavorful dish at home and adjust it to your preferences. With its crispy bread, caramelized onions, sautéed vegetables, and melty cheese, this sandwich is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Enjoy these French Onion Veggie Subs with family and friends and savor every bite!

Introduction

Why You’ll Love French Onion Veggie Subs

Preparation and Cooking Time