Creamy Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup
This Creamy Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup is the ultimate blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. Inspired by the classic French onion soup, this recipe creatively incorporates leftover mashed potatoes to achieve a luscious, creamy consistency without the use of heavy cream or flour. The slow-cooked caramelized onions bring a sweet depth to the dish, while the addition of melty gruyere cheese, perfectly toasted bread, and aromatic herbs elevates this soup to a delightful experience. Ideal for chilly nights or as a warming starter, this soup is bound to become a household favorite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
onions
3 large (peeled, halved, and sliced)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
olive oil
2 tablespoons
garlic cloves
6 (sliced)
black pepper
1 teaspoon
chili pepper flakes
1 pinch
bay leaf
1
thyme
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
sugar
1 teaspoon
sherry wine
1/3 cup
beef broth
4 cups (low sodium, nonfat)
Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon
dried parsley
1 teaspoon
leftover mashed potatoes
2 cups
toasted bread
4-6 slices (I used croissant halves)
Swiss gruyere cheese
1-1/2 cups (grated)
scallion
to taste (thinly sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup?
This soup is a comforting dish that combines the deep, sweet flavor of caramelized onions with the creamy consistency of leftover mashed potatoes, inspired by traditional French onion soup.
How does this soup get its creamy texture without heavy cream?
The creaminess comes from incorporating two cups of leftover mashed potatoes, which act as a natural thickening agent and provide a luscious mouthfeel without the need for flour or cream.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of leftovers?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply boil and mash them until smooth before adding them to the soup to ensure the texture remains consistent.
What type of onions are best for this recipe?
Large yellow onions or sweet onions are ideal for caramelizing as they have a high sugar content that develops into a rich flavor during slow cooking.
How long should I cook the onions to caramelize them?
Onions typically take 30 to 45 minutes of slow cooking to achieve a deep golden brown color and the characteristic sweet flavor required for this soup.
Is this soup vegetarian?
While the recipe tags mention vegetarian, the ingredients list beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. To make it strictly vegetarian, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and use a vegetarian-friendly Worcestershire sauce.
What can I substitute for sherry wine?
You can substitute sherry wine with a dry white wine or add a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with a little extra broth for a similar acidity.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, chicken broth can be used, though it will result in a lighter color and a milder flavor profile compared to the robust taste of beef broth.
How should I store leftover soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Note that the texture of the mashed potatoes may change slightly upon thawing, so stir well while reheating.
What bread is best for the toasted topping?
The recipe suggests toasted croissant halves for a buttery crunch, but a traditional French baguette or sourdough slices also work perfectly.
Can I use a different cheese than Swiss Gruyere?
Yes, you can substitute Gruyere with other melty cheeses like Swiss, Emmental, Jarlsberg, or even a sharp white cheddar.
What is the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Why is sugar added to the onions?
A small amount of sugar helps accelerate the caramelization process and enhances the natural sweetness of the onions.
What is a good substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute to provide the savory, umami depth that Worcestershire sauce adds.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, though it is recommended to caramelize the onions in a pan first for maximum flavor before adding them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe make?
Based on the ingredient quantities, this recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because of the toasted bread and potentially the Worcestershire sauce. Use gluten-free bread and a certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to adapt it.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. If using fresh thyme or parsley, use about three times the amount of dried herbs called for to achieve the same flavor intensity.
What garnish is recommended?
Thinly sliced scallions are recommended for garnish to add a fresh, mild onion bite and a pop of color.
Why use both butter and olive oil?
Using both allows for the rich flavor of butter while the olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning at higher temperatures.
Can I omit the garlic?
Yes, you can omit the garlic, but it is highly recommended as it adds a wonderful aromatic depth to the onion base.
Is this soup spicy?
No, it is very mild. The single pinch of chili pepper flakes adds a subtle background warmth rather than direct heat.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
Grate the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded varieties, and add it slowly to the hot soup or melt it directly on the toast.
Can I make a vegan version?
To make it vegan, use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable broth, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and a plant-based cheese alternative.
What type of pot is best for this recipe?
A heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven is best because it distributes heat evenly, which is crucial for preventing the onions from scorching.
What should the consistency be?
The soup should be thick, smooth, and luscious, similar to a potato leek soup but with the visible texture of caramelized onions.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, finely diced celery or carrots can be sautéed with the onions to add more nutritional value and complexity.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, the flavors actually deepen and improve the next day, making it an excellent choice for preparing ahead of time.
What side dishes pair well with this soup?
A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables would complement the rich, savory flavors of the soup perfectly.