Introduction
Amish Snow Day Soup is a beloved Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food, often made on snowy winter days when the whole family is home. It’s a rich, creamy, and nourishing soup filled with tender potatoes, vegetables, and chunks of ground beef or ham. Traditionally served with homemade bread or biscuits, this soup is simple, humble, and deeply satisfying — a true taste of Amish homestyle cooking.
Ingredients (Serves 12–14)
Main Soup Base
- 2 lb (900 g) ground beef or diced smoked ham
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 lb / 1.3 kg)
- 6 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 6 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups frozen or canned corn
- 1½ cups frozen peas
- 1 cup green beans, chopped (optional)
- 3 quarts (12 cups) chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Creamy Base
- 1½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (1 stick / 115 g) butter
- ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or ditalini pasta (optional for a thicker soup)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish or mixing in at the end)
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives (for serving)
Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
In a large stockpot (10–12 quarts), cook ground beef or ham over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if using beef. Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Build the Soup Base**
Add chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, corn, peas, green beans, bay leaves, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Make the Cream Base
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened and smooth (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine and Finish
Slowly stir the creamy mixture into the soup. Let it simmer another 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the soup is thick and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
If using noodles, stir them in now and cook until tender.
5. Serve Warm
Ladle into big bowls, top with shredded cheddar or fresh herbs, and serve with Amish white bread, cornbread, or buttermilk biscuits.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
History
This soup hails from the Amish and Mennonite communities of Pennsylvania and Ohio, where hearty one-pot meals are common. It was often made when families were snowed in — using pantry staples like potatoes, milk, and preserved meats. The creamy texture and gentle seasoning reflect the Amish principle of simplicity and frugality.
Benefits
- High in fiber and vitamins from fresh vegetables
- Contains protein from meat and dairy
- Excellent for meal prepping and feeding large groups
- Naturally warming and comforting — perfect for cold weather
For the Lovers
If you love cozy, creamy soups like chowders, potato soup, or chicken and dumplings — Amish Snow Day Soup will become your new winter favorite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up by the fire with a thick slice of bread and a full heart.
Nutrition (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
