French Onion & Butternut Squash Soup

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter and oil over medium. Add the onions and season with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and golden, about 30 minutes.

   Step 2

   Increase the heat to medium-high and add ¼ cup of the stock and the butternut squash. Using a wooden spoon, scrape up brown bits from bottom of the pan and continue to cook, stirring frequently until the onions are deep golden, about 10 minutes more.

   Step 3

   Sprinkle flour over onions and squash, and stir to coat. Pour sherry and stock into the pot and add thyme. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook, partially covered, until squash is tender, about 12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

   Step 4

   Preheat the oven to broil with a rack in the top third. Arrange the bread on a rimmed baking sheet and broil until golden on both sides, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.

   Step 5

   Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and arrange four ovenproof bowls on the prepared baking sheet. Ladle the soup into the bowls and top each with 2 or 3 slices of toasted baguette and sprinkle with cheese. Broil until the cheese is melted and golden in spots, watching carefully as broilers vary in strength, about 5 minutes. Serve warm.