15 Classic French Foods to Make You Say, 'Bon Appétit!'
A trip to Paris is not required.
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With this year's summer Olympic Games taking place in Paris, there's no better time to try your hand at some traditional French recipes! We're talking about a watch-party filled with croque monsieur sandwiches and baked brie or a gold-medal worthy breakfast of Nutella crepes. That said, these French foods are just as delicious throughout the year, too. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or a fun French-themed bridal shower, the ideas on this list are perfect for embracing the French way of cooking. Here, you'll find regional classics like French onion soup and homemade quiche, along with fun new twists like a bread pudding made with flaky croissants.
Speaking of dessert, nobody does pastry quite like the French! And one taste of a chocolate éclair or a tender madeleine cookie will prove it. It will feel like your sitting outside a Parisian bakery in no time! Looking to impress your family with a French-inspired dinner? Ree Drummond's beef burgundy is a great place to start. It will "make your whole house smell like heaven," she says. Pair it with an easy ratatouille, and Sunday supper is served. Just be sure to say, "bon appetit" before you dig in!
Croque Monsieur
This elevated grilled cheese is a quintessential sandwich at many French bistros. It's filled with ham, gruyère cheese, and dijon mustard, and topped with a dreamy bechamel sauce.
Get the Croque Monsieur recipe.
Chocolate Eclairs
Between the puffy pastry shell and whipped vanilla filling, this treat is sure to impress. Add a glossy chocolate glaze and serve it up with your favorite latte!
Get the Chocolate Eclairs recipe.
French Onion Soup
It doesn't get more comforting than French onion soup! The savory caramelized onions, melty cheese, and soup-soaked crouton are a classic for a reason.
Get Ree's French Onion Soup recipe.
Beef Burgundy
This French beef stew is braised in red wine, but you don't have to spend a lot of money to make it. Use any French red wine that you would enjoy drinking, then pour yourself a glass while you're at it!
Get Ree's Beef Burgundy recipe.
Ratatouille
It's not just the name of a cute Disney movie! This classic French dish makes for a beautiful side. The layers of veggies are displayed and roasted in a show-stopping presentation.
Get the Ratatouille recipe.
Nutella Crepes
You don't need to take a trip to Paris to enjoy homemade crepes! The batter is similar to American-style pancakes but thinner and made using your handy blender. Fill them up with anything you like, including berries, nutella, and whipped cream!
Get the Nutella Crepes recipe.
Quiche Lorraine
This French dish has three essential ingredients: bacon, Swiss cheese, and onions. You can make it for brunch or breakfast-for-dinner!
Get the Quiche Lorraine recipe.
Baked Brie
This ooey-gooey cheese is actually named after a region in France. It would be the perfect addition to any French-themed party! Drizzle it with honey and serve it up with toasted baguette slices.
Get the Baked Brie recipe.
Gougères
Another cheesy French favorite—these savory pastries are easier than you might think. They can even be stashed in the freezer, then reheated whenever the craving hits.
Get the Gougères recipe.
Eclair Cake
This twist on French eclairs is even easier than the traditional variety, but it's just as creamy and delicious. In fact, you don't even need to turn on your oven to make it!
Get the Eclair Cake recipe.
French 75
This cocktail was first created back in 1915 at the New York Bar in Paris. It's an easy combination of French champagne, gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Get the French 75 recipe.
Instant Pot French Onion Soup
Looking to try a French classic but without too much effort? Let your Instant Pot do the work! It'll help you caramelize the onions in no time flat.
Get the Instant Pot French Onion Soup recipe.
White Chocolate Croissant Bread Pudding
If croissants are one of your favorite French foods, just wait until you try this flaky bread pudding! It has a decadent white chocolate custard, bursting fresh berries, and golden croissants.
Madeleines
These cake-like cookies have a distinct scalloped shell shape that makes them look oh-so pretty. You can dust them with powdered sugar or even dip them in melted chocolate if you prefer.
Get the Madeleines recipe.
Air Fryer French Fries
In France, this popular side dish is known as 'pommes frites' or simply just 'frites.' Serve them up with a classic steak dinner or a pot of steamed mussels to really get in the French spirit.
Get the Air Fryer French Fries recipe.
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