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This homemade dry onion soup mix is a simple, flavorful substitute for the store-bought packets we all rely on. It’s a quick, pantry-friendly blend that saves the day when you need big flavor without an extra trip to the store.
I love using Lipton’s Onion Soup Mix to boost the flavor of so many dishes—from pot roast to burgers and even dips. It’s one of those pantry staples I reach for all the time.
But let’s be real—every now and then, I go to grab a packet and realize I’m out. No need to run to the store! This easy homemade version is pantry-friendly, full of flavor, and takes just a minute to mix up. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights—and the best part? This version skips all the preservatives, so you know exactly what’s going into your food.
French Onion Soup Mix Ingredients
- Dried Onion Flakes: These add the signature texture and flavor. Don’t swap with onion powder—it just won’t be the same! This can also be labeled as minced onion, chopped onion, or onion pieces, and it can be found in the spice aisle.
- Beef Bouillon Granules: Using low-sodium bouillon will allow you to control the salt in the recipe. You can also crush up bouillon cubes if that’s what you have—about 2 cubes will do the trick.
- Onion Powder: A little goes a long way for boosting the onion flavor throughout.
- Dried Parsley: Adds a subtle herbal note and a pop of color.
- Celery Seed: It gives that classic Lipton Onion soup mix flavor you can’t quite pinpoint. If you don’t have it in your pantry, I recommend adding it. It’s delicious in coleslaw too!
- Black Pepper: Just enough to add balance without heat.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color—you can use smoked paprika if you want to take it up a notch.
How To Make Homemade Beefy Onion Soup Mix
✱ Be sure to see the recipe card below for exact ingredients and full recipe instructions!
Step 1 | Measure ingredients
Gather and measure out all the ingredients listed.
Step 2 | Mix it up
In a small bowl, stir together the dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, dried parsley, celery seed, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
Step 3 | Store or use
Transfer to an airtight container for storage, or use immediately as a substitute for one 1-ounce packet of dry onion soup mix.
Recipe Tips
- Bulk Preparation: Double or triple the recipe to have more on hand.
- Gift Idea: Package the mix in decorative jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Usage Reminder: Keep a note on the container indicating that 3 tablespoons equal one store-bought packet.
Variations and Substitutions for Dry Onion Soup Mix
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable bouillon instead of beef bouillon.
- Gluten-Free Onion Soup Mix: Ensure all ingredients, especially bouillon, are certified gluten-free.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Herby Twist: Include dried thyme or rosemary for additional flavor.
Recipe FAQs
Use 3 tablespoons of this homemade mix to replace one 1-ounce packet of dry onion soup mix.
It can be! Just make sure your bouillon is labeled gluten-free, as that’s usually the culprit.
Definitely! Mix 3 tablespoons with 16 ounces of sour cream and chill—it makes a tasty onion dip that’s perfect for chips or veggies.
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Storage
Shelf Life: Up to 6 months when stored in a cool, dry pantry.
Container Suggestions: Use mason jars or recycled or new spice jars for storage.
Labeling: Don’t forget to label your container with the date and contents.
How to Use Homemade Onion Soup Mix
- Seasoning: Use as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, or in casseroles.
- As a Soup Base: Combine 3 tablespoons of the mix with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Onion Dip: Mix 3 tablespoons with 16 oz of sour cream. Chill before serving.
Recipes that Use Onion Soup Mix
- Hamburger Steaks with Gravy
- French Onion Pot Roast
- French Dip Sliders
- Instant Pot Creamy French Onion Noodles
- French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
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Dry Onion Soup Mix Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ dried onion flakes
- 2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules, use low sodium if desired
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- ⅛ teaspoon celery seed
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Gather and measure out all ingredients.
- In a bowl, stir together onion flakes/pieces, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, parsley flakes, celery seed, black pepper, and paprika
- Use as a substitute for a 1-ounce envelope of dry onion soup mix.
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Notes
Nutrition Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Soulfully Made is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
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