French Onion Chowder – A Creamy Twist on a Classic Soup

If you’re a fan of French onion soup but crave something a little more hearty, this French Onion Chowder will be your new go-to comfort meal. Combining the rich, caramelized onions of the traditional French soup with the creamy texture of a chowder, this recipe is the ultimate cold-weather dish. It’s perfect for when you want something warm and satisfying but also full of depth and flavor.

Photo bypinterest

This soup features deeply caramelized onions, tender chunks of potato, and a rich, creamy broth. With the addition of thyme and bay leaves for extra aroma, this French Onion Chowder is packed with savory notes that will warm you from the inside out. The best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to make, so you can have a comforting, gourmet meal on the table in no time.

This French Onion Chowder is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The caramelized onions add a deep sweetness, while the potatoes bring body and heartiness to the dish. The creamy broth, enriched with Parmesan and heavy cream, turns this soup into a luxurious and satisfying meal. Whether served as a starter or the main course, this chowder is a versatile dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Fat: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 10g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fiber: 4g

This soup is rich and creamy but not overly heavy, making it the perfect option for a cozy dinner. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance out the meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This French Onion Chowder pairs wonderfully with a toasted baguette or a slice of garlic bread. You can also serve it with a green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the soup. For a heartier option, pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of roasted vegetables. To finish the meal, consider serving a fruit-based dessert like an apple tart or a pear crisp.

Photo bypinterest

Storage and Reheating Tips

This chowder can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply transfer the soup to an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much while refrigerated, you can thin it out with a bit of extra broth or milk. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Fun Fact: The History of French Onion Soup

French onion soup dates back to the 18th century and was considered a dish for the poor because onions were cheap and readily available. It became a popular dish in French restaurants in the 19th century, where it was often served as a late-night meal to weary workers. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide as a classic comfort food.

Cooking Tips

Caramelize with Patience: To get the best flavor out of your onions, take your time with the caramelization process. Stir the onions every few minutes to prevent them from burning, but let them cook long enough to turn a deep, golden brown.Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this chowder because they break down slightly as they cook, helping to thicken the soup and give it that creamy texture.Thickening Trick: If your soup isn’t thick enough, try making a quick cornstarch slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stirring it into the simmering soup.

Optional Variations

Add Meat for Extra Flavor: For a heartier chowder, try adding cooked bacon or pancetta to the soup. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the onions.Cheese Lovers Unite: For an extra cheesy twist, stir in a handful of Gruyère cheese just before serving. It melts beautifully and adds a nutty, rich flavor.Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this chowder. You’ll still get all the rich, savory flavors without the meat.

Photo bypinterest

French Onion Chowder Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2 pounds sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• ⅓ cup dry white wine
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 bay leaves
• ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions with a pinch of kosher salt. Cover and cook for 5 minutes undisturbed.
2. Uncover the pot, stir the onions, and reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue cooking for 40-45 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the onions are deeply caramelized.
3. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the white wine and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until reduced by half.
4. Add the chopped potatoes and flour, stirring to coat the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes before slowly pouring in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
5. Add the bay leaves, then cover and bring the soup to a low boil over medium-high heat. Uncover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Remove the bay leaves and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season the soup with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve the chowder warm, garnished with additional thyme or Parmesan cheese, if desired.

This French Onion Chowder is a rich, flavorful take on the classic French onion soup, with added creaminess and heartiness from the potatoes and cream. It’s perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your soup rotation.