Introduction
Have you ever wondered why a simple bowl of soup can feel more like a warm hug than just a meal? When the world outside turns into a white blanket of frost and the wind begins to whistle through the windows, there is a deep, psychological craving for something that tastes like home. For many of us, that craving leads straight to a pot of Amish Snow Day Soup. Growing up, I remember watching the snow pile up against the door while my grandmother moved around the kitchen with practiced ease. She always said that food was the best way to make people happy, and this specific soup was her secret weapon for cold afternoons.
I am Benjamin Sharif, a home cook who believes that the best memories are made around a crowded dinner table. This recipe is a staple in my household with my wife Emily and our kids, Adams and Jana. It is an incredibly easy, budget friendly meal that celebrates the humble ingredients found in any pantry. It’s thick, creamy, and packed with the kind of soul warming flavor that only traditional Amish cooking can provide. Whether you are hunkering down for a blizzard or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is going to become your new favorite holiday tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Snow Day Soup
- Incredible Comfort: This soup provides a rich, velvety texture that feels indulgent without being overly complicated to prepare.
- Budget Friendly Pantry Staples: You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen, from potatoes and onions to simple seasonings.
- Kid Approved and Family Friendly: My kids, Adams and Jana, absolutely devour this meal, especially when we serve it as a creamy loaded baked potato soup recipe variation.
- Quick Preparation: In under 45 minutes, you can have a steaming pot ready to serve a hungry crowd.
- Highly Versatile: You can easily add leftover ham, extra veggies, or different cheeses to make it your own.
Ingredients for Amish Snow Day Soup
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
For a thinner consistency, you can use 2 percent milk. If you want a more robust flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika.
How to Make Amish Snow Day Soup
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large heavy bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This creates the foundational flavor for your Amish Snow Day Soup.
- Whisk the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and butter. Whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This will act as the thickening agent for your broth.
- Simmer the Potatoes: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the cubed potatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender.
- Achieve Creaminess: Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the milk or cream. For a more authentic feel, I like to use a potato masher to lightly crush some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This creates a naturally thick and rustic texture similar to an authentic homemade wonton soup recipe in terms of its comforting warmth.
- The Final Touch: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted. Taste and adjust your seasonings. Serve hot in big bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Pro Tips and Variations
To get the best results with your Amish Snow Day Soup, always use russet potatoes because their high starch content yields a creamier finish than waxy red potatoes. If you prefer a completely smooth texture, you can use an immersion blender for a few seconds before adding the cheese.
For a Gluten Free version, simply swap the all purpose flour for a cornstarch slurry or a gluten free flour blend. For a Vegan variation, use coconut milk and vegetable broth, and replace the butter with olive oil. If you are looking for more inspiration, check out this great traditional take on the recipe which captures that old world charm perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a star on its own, but it loves company. I highly recommend serving it alongside a loaf of crusty sourdough bread or warm garlic knots to soak up every drop of broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice acidic balance to the richness of the potatoes. For a full Amish style spread, serve it with a side of sweet corn bread or even some homemade apple butter on toast.
Storage and Reheating for Amish Snow Day Soup
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth as the soup tends to thicken significantly while it sits in the fridge. I do not recommend freezing this soup, as the potatoes can become grainy and the dairy may separate upon thawing.
FAQ about Amish Snow Day Soup
Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely. Adding diced ham, crispy bacon bits, or even cooked ground sausage makes this a much heartier meal. It is a great way to use up holiday leftovers.
What if my soup is too thin?
If the consistency is too light, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or mash more of the potatoes. You can also mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in.
Is this soup spicy?
No, it is a very mild and comforting dish. However, if you enjoy a kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
Final Thoughts on Amish Snow Day Soup
There is nothing quite like the feeling of knowing a warm meal is waiting for you while the snow falls outside. This Amish Snow Day Soup is a testament to the fact that you do not need fancy ingredients to create a masterpiece. It is about the love you put into the pot and the people you share it with. If you enjoyed this recipe, please save it to your Pinterest boards so you can find it next time the clouds turn grey. Leave a comment below telling me your favorite snow day memory, and do not forget to subscribe to Mister Recipes for more home cooked inspiration. Grab your apron and let us get cooking
Amish Snow Day Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and butter. Whisk constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the cubed potatoes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork tender.
- Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the milk or cream. Lightly crush some of the potatoes directly in the pot with a potato masher to create a creamy texture.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted. Taste and adjust your seasonings. Serve hot in big bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
