If you are craving comfort in a bowl, nothing soothes quite like the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe. This timeless classic brings together tender russet potatoes, sweet onions, and a creamy broth that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a cozy hug from your favorite sweater, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want to indulge in a simple, hearty meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role, building layers of flavor and that irresistible velvety texture that makes potato soup so beloved.

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe begins with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one adds its own touch, from the creamy potatoes offering body and heartiness to the butter and flour forming a rich base that thickens and deepens the flavor. Every scoop bursts with that perfect balance between creamy, savory, and just a hint of herbal warmth.

Russet potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced): These are perfect for mashing and naturally give the soup a creamy texture.
Yellow onion (1 small, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed gently.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a subtle aromatic punch.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Creates the rich, silky base without overpowering flavors.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Forms a roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
Whole milk (4 cups): Provides creaminess and lightness to balance the hearty potatoes.
Chicken broth (1 cup): Boosts flavor and prevents the soup from being too heavy.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup, optional): For those who want an extra touch of richness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the savory notes in the soup.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of warmth.
Celery seed or dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers a delicate herbal note that feels traditional.
Chopped green onions (for garnish): Brings fresh color and a mild oniony crunch.
Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish): Melts perfectly on top adding sharp creaminess.
Crumbled bacon (for garnish): Provides smoky, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully.

How to Make Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Saute Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook slowly until it turns soft and translucent. This is key to unlocking that natural sweetness. Right after, stir in the minced garlic for just a minute to release its fragrant aroma—you want it soft, not browned.

Step 2: Create Roux

Next, sprinkle the flour over the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Use a whisk to mix it constantly for a couple of minutes. This roux forms the thickening backbone of your soup, ensuring that once the liquids are added, it’ll be silky and luscious without any graininess.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Slowly pour in the milk and chicken broth while whisking continuously. This gradual addition prevents lumps and makes sure the broth blends smoothly with the roux. Allow this mixture to heat through while stirring gently.

Step 4: Cook Potatoes

Now, add the diced russet potatoes along with the salt, pepper, and optional celery seed or dried thyme. Bring everything to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender. This step is where the soup starts to feel like the classic comfort food we love.

Step 5: Thicken Soup

Once the potatoes are soft, mash some of them directly in the pot with the back of a spoon—this releases natural starches and thickens the soup beautifully. Stir in the heavy cream if you’re using it to give the soup that extra velvety richness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle your piping hot soup into bowls and get ready to dress it with your favorite garnishes for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Topping your Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe is where you add personality. Chopped green onions offer a fresh pop of color and mild flavor, while shredded cheddar cheese melts over the warmth adding creamy sharpness. Crumbled bacon brings a crispy, smoky bite that contrasts perfectly with the smooth soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness, while roasted vegetables add a wholesome counterpart to the creamy bowl.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out bread bowls. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a vibrant look. Drizzling a bit of extra cream or a swirl of sour cream can add elegance and texture contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Remember to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the freshest taste.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but note that the texture may change slightly due to the potatoes. For best results, freeze in portions and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth while reheating to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid high heat to keep the soup silky and smooth.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth, and skip the bacon garnish to create a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down nicely and create a creamy texture. Waxy potatoes hold their shape more but won’t give you that classic velvety consistency.

Is it okay to use low-fat milk?

You can, but the soup will be less creamy and rich. Whole milk is recommended to achieve that luscious mouthfeel classic to this recipe.

How can I make the soup thicker?

Mashing some of the potatoes in the pot releases starch that naturally thickens the soup. You can also increase the flour slightly if you want a heartier texture.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, the flavors actually deepen when the soup sits overnight. Just reheat gently before serving and add any fresh garnishes last to keep them crisp.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe that never goes out of style. It’s simple ingredients combined with thoughtful technique that deliver a bowl full of comfort and joy. Whether you’re warming up from a cold day or simply seeking a soulful meal, this soup will quickly become a staple you crave again and again. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes!

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 30 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This Old Fashioned Potato Soup is a comforting and creamy classic, made with tender russet potatoes, sautéed onions, and garlic, enriched with butter and cream, then topped with cheddar, bacon, and green onions for a satisfying meal perfect for chilly days.

Instructions

Saute Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Create Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions and garlic. Whisk continuously to combine and cook the flour for about 2 minutes. This forms the roux, which will thicken the soup.
Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the whole milk and chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Cook Potatoes: Add the diced russet potatoes to the pot along with salt, black pepper, and the optional celery seed or dried thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
Thicken Soup: Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to create a thicker, creamier texture. Stir in the optional heavy cream for extra richness and heat through for another 3-5 minutes.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon as desired. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon topping.
You can use low-fat milk or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter soup, though it will be less creamy.
Use a potato masher for a chunkier texture or blend part of the soup for a smoother consistency.
Celery seed adds a subtle earthy flavor, while dried thyme offers herbal notes; both are optional based on your taste.
Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering, Sautéing
Cuisine: American