Cozy Italian Potato Onion Soup – Quick & Easy
This Potato Onion Soup is an Italian inspired version of it’s French cousin. It is a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this rustic soup combines flavourful sautéed onions with the hearty texture of shredded potatoes, all simmered in a flavorful broth. If you’re looking for an easy onion soup recipe this dish is for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Naturally gluten-free and packed with nourishing vegetables.
- Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for spring yet cozy enough for winter comfort food cravings.
What’s the Difference Between Italian and French Onion Soup
French onion soup is traditionally made with slowly caramelized onions, beef broth and a thick layer of bread with melted Gruyère cheese, giving it a rich, savoury depth. I love it! But it takes time to caramelize the onions just right.
This Italian-inspired version, based loosely on Tuscan Licurida (made with regional red onions called Tropea onions) incorporates shredded potatoes. In this soup, the onions are softened, not caramelized. This makes it faster to make, keeps it lighter and more delicate compared to the deep, sweet flavours of caramelized onions found in French onion soup. This soup also includes shredded potatoes for thickness and a little heartiness. It uses a simple broth, herbs and a sprinkling of cheese. The result is a simpler, herb-infused soup that’s hearty without being overly heavy.
Not having access to Tropea onions, I make this soup with either yellow or red onions – sometimes a combination of the two. For a sweeter flavour try using Vidalia onions when they’re in season.
Tips for Success:
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best as they help thicken the soup naturally.
- For Extra Creaminess: Blend a portion of the soup before serving or stir in a splash of heavy cream.
- Enhance the Flavour: Add a dash of white wine when cooking the onions for a subtle depth of flavour. And consider a pinch of hot pepper flakes.
- Make It a Meal: Pair with crusty Italian bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Storing & Reheating:
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust consistency.
Recipe for Potato Onion Soup
Potato Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 3 medium Russet or Yukon gold potatoes 3 cups shredded
- 1 Tbsp canola oil
- 4 large onions* 3-4 cups thinly sliced, red or white or combo
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme 1 tsp dried
- 6 cups vegetable broth or beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- parsley for garnish chopped
- hot pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Wash potatoes and remove any blemishes, peeling optional. Use the large-holed side of a grater to shred potatoes. Place in enough cold water to cover and prevent browning. Set aside.
- Heat oil in large pot over medium heat and cook onion until soft, not browned, about 6-8 min.
- Stir in garlic and thyme and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Drain shredded potatoes and add to pot. Pour in broth and add bay leaf. Simmer for 25 min or until potatoes are tender.
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese, fresh chopped parsley and hot pepper flakes if desired.
Video
Notes
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
More Cozy Soup Recipes to Try:
- Classic Hamburger Soup – A great broth soup perfect for using up whatever’s in the fridge or garden!
- Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup – Don’t underestimate these classic, staple ingredients!
- Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach – I often serve this when company’s coming – it’s always a hit.
This Italian Potato Onion Soup is sure to become a favorite. Let me know if you try it—I’d love to hear how it turns out!
Super Soup – every time!
Soup offers an affordable source of delicious comfort. And, they’re easy to make – once you know all the tricks. Grab this FREE pdf guide with all the skills & tips you need for amazing homemade soup, every time you cook.
Cook with the seasons, effortlessly! I’m Getty, a food educator and Professional Home Economist, helping you select, store, and serve seasonal ingredients in delicious, simple, everyday meals. Sign up for seasonal tips and recipes delivered straight to your inbox, and dive deeper with my books, guides, or YouTube content.
Come cooler weather, I make soup every week. My family LOVES soup. I am excited about this new to me version of a potato/onion soup and can’t wait to try it. Trying to use up the last ridiculous haul of yellow squash from. my garden for squash soup….but this soup will be on our next rotation. Thank you!
I think you’ll love it – so simple yet so good.