Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup

Name: Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 cup heavy cream; Fresh chives for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup during the colder months. The process of slowly caramelizing the onions gives the soup a deep, rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the potatoes. It’s a comfort food classic that warms me from the inside out, making it perfect for cozy nights in. I often pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:37:27.688Z

When I first made this soup, I didn't expect it to be so flavorful. The key lies in the slow caramelization of the onions, which brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. I recommend taking your time with this step, as it truly makes a world of difference.

Another detail I learned along the way is to use a good stock. Homemade stock adds a richness that store-bought just can't replicate. This soup is perfect for batch cooking, and it freezes well, so you can enjoy it on a busy night.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The rich, sweet flavor from the caramelized onions
Creamy texture that comforts and delights
Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and spices

      

The Art of Caramelizing Onions

Caramelizing onions is a crucial step in this soup that builds complexity in flavor. It’s important to use medium heat and be patient; rushing this step may result in burnt onions which have an unpleasant taste. Keep stirring the onions every few minutes to ensure even cooking and to release their natural sugars. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve turned a deep golden brown and have a sweet, rich aroma wafting through your kitchen—it typically takes about 20 minutes.

For a twist, you can add a pinch of sugar to the onions to accelerate caramelization if you're in a hurry. Alternatively, using a combination of yellow and sweet onions can enhance the sweetness of the soup. This balancing act between sweetness and savory is key to achieving the depth of flavor that makes this soup so beloved.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When it comes to choosing potatoes for your soup, starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal due to their creamy texture when cooked and pureed. They help to create a velvety finish that complements the sweet onions beautifully. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also opt for newer potatoes, but be mindful that they may not break down as smoothly during blending.

If you’re looking to create a lighter version of the soup, you could substitute potatoes with cauliflower. This will still provide a creamy texture while offering a lower-carb option. Simply cut the cauliflower into florets and add it at the same stage as the potatoes—simmer until tender before blending to achieve that creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

4 large onions, thinly sliced
2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh chives for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making the soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Caramelized Onion and Potato Soup:

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a teaspoon of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for about 20 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Add Potatoes and Stock

Stir in the diced potatoes, black pepper, and thyme. Pour in the stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

Blend and Finish

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives. Enjoy with crusty bread!

Now you have a delightful soup that's sure to impress!

Pro Tips

Always caramelize the onions slowly to achieve a deeper flavor. You can also top the soup with croutons for an added crunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. I often double the recipe so I can freeze half for later; it freezes well for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it over low heat on the stove until heated through.

If you find that the soup is thicker than you prefer after refrigerating or freezing, add a splash of vegetable stock or water while reheating. This will help bring back that luscious, creamy texture without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. The cheese melts beautifully into the warm soup, enhancing its creaminess. Additionally, topping the soup with croutons or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can provide a delightful contrast in texture.

For a complete meal, serve this soup with a side of artisan bread or a crisp, fresh salad topped with vinaigrette for a refreshing balance. This combination not only satisfies hunger but also complements the rich flavors in the soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, just use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

→ How long can I store the soup?

You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Just make sure to leave out the cream before freezing, and add it when reheating.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk for a lighter option.