Let your slow cooker work its magic with this Crockpot French onion soup, so you can savor the delicious combination of caramelized onions, hearty broth and melted cheese while barely lifting a finger.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
• 2 large sweet onions, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 large red onion, halved and thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 2 cans (10-1/2 ounces each) condensed beef broth, undiluted
• 3 cups water
• 3/4 cup white wine or regular-strength beef broth
• 2 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 fresh parsley sprig, optional
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
• 16 slices french bread (1/4 inch thick)
• 3/4 cup shredded gruyere or swiss cheese

Directions

1. Place butter in a 5-qt. slow cooker. Top with sweet and red onions; sprinkle with pepper. Cook, covered, on low until onions are tender, 5-6 hours.
2. Stir in broth, water, wine, herbs and Worcestershire sauce. Cook, covered, on low until flavors are blended, 2-3 hours. Remove herb sprigs and bay leaf.
3. To serve, preheat broiler. Place bread on a baking sheet; broil 4 in. from heat until lightly toasted, 1-2 minutes per side. Top bread with cheese; broil until cheese is melted, 1-2 minutes. Divide soup among eight bowls; top with cheese toasts and serve immediately.