As I stirred the simmering pot of Old Fashioned Potato Soup, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia, each whiff reminding me of cozy family dinners nestled around the table. This creamy comfort food is more than just a warm meal—it’s an embrace on a chilly evening, perfect for bringing everyone together. With everyday ingredients like russet potatoes and sautéed onions, it’s not only easy to whip up but also adaptable for any dietary needs. Whether you’re warming up after a brisk walk or sharing it as a heartwarming starter at your next gathering, this Classic Creamy Old Fashioned Potato Soup is sure to steal the spotlight. Curious about crafting that creamy perfection? Let’s dive into this recipe that’s a hug in a bowl!

Why is this potato soup a must-try?

Creamy Comfort: Each spoonful delivers an irresistible, velvety texture that warms your soul.

Nostalgic Touch: This recipe is a beloved classic that evokes cherished memories of family gatherings.

Adaptable Flavor: Easily swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or add your favorite herbs for personal flair.

Quick & Easy: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, it’s perfect even for those busy weeknights.

Crowd-Winning Delight: Whether served as a main dish or a starter, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy your guests.

Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a delightful meal that brings everyone together. For another cozy dish, check out this Pot Pie Soup.

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Ingredients

Curious about the magic behind this comforting bowl? Let’s gather what you need!

For the Soup Base

Russet Potatoes – Essential for a creamy texture; their starchiness ensures a hearty soup.
Butter – Adds a rich depth of flavor to the sautéed base.
Onions – Sweetens the soup and gives it a lovely aromatic kick.
Garlic – Boosts the flavor profile with its distinct pungency.
Flour – Key for thickening; it’s part of the roux that gives the soup its body.

For the Creaminess

Whole Milk – Provides that creamy consistency; feel free to swap with half-and-half or a plant-based option for variations.
Heavy Cream – Optional for an extra indulgent touch; adjust depending on your mood!

For the Flavor

Chicken Broth – Infuses a savory depth; can be replaced with vegetable broth for a vegetarian Old Fashioned Potato Soup.
Celery Seed/Thyme – Optional herbs that offer earthy notes and enhance the overall flavor.
Salt/Pepper – Crucial for highlighting all the other ingredients.

For Garnishing

Green Onions – Freshness and a pop of color; chop them up finely for a sprinkle on top.
Cheddar Cheese – Adds a delightful creaminess and tang; a must for cheese lovers!
Bacon – Crispy bits take the flavor over the top; skip for the vegetarian version.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large, sturdy pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of chopped onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent browning. This will create a sweet base for your Old Fashioned Potato Soup, infusing it with flavor.

Step 2: Introduce Garlic
Once the onions are softened, add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Continue to sauté for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic essence without burning. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your creamy soup.

Step 3: Create the Roux
Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the buttery onion mixture in the pot. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture turns a pale golden color, ensuring the flour is fully coated and no lumps remain. This roux is essential for thickening your Old Fashioned Potato Soup.

Step 4: Combine Liquids
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. Keep cooking for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken and simmers gently. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Stir in 4 cups of diced russet potatoes, along with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, include ½ teaspoon of celery seed or thyme for added flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and let it cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Adjust the Texture
Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to mash some of them in the pot for a chunkier texture, or blend with an immersion blender for a smoother consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning or creaminess to your preference for the Old Fashioned Potato Soup.

Step 7: Add Heavy Cream
If desired, swirl in ½ cup of heavy cream and gently heat through over low heat. Stir until the cream is fully incorporated and the soup is warm, enhancing its rich, velvety texture. Avoid boiling to keep the dairy from curdling.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the piping hot Old Fashioned Potato Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, or crispy bacon bits if desired. This makes for a delightful, comforting presentation that invites everyone to enjoy a warm spoonful of nostalgia.

Make Ahead Options

These Old Fashioned Potato Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the russet potatoes and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the entire soup base (steps 1-5) and let it cool before storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the soup, simply reheat over low heat, adding any extra cream as desired, and stirring until heated through. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but ensures your soup remains just as delicious and comforting when served!

What to Serve with Old Fashioned Potato Soup

Serve this delightful soup with perfectly curated sides for a cozy, satisfying meal experience.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf makes the perfect companion to scoop up every last drop of soup. Its crunchy texture beautifully contrasts the creamy richness of the soup.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a burst of color and balances the meal’s heartiness.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls invite you to indulge even more, perfect for dipping into the comforting broth.
Roasted Vegetables: Earthy roasted carrots or savory Brussels sprouts bring a lovely depth of flavor, enhancing the wholesome vibes of your soup.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Lush, gooey cheese melts over garlicky slices, creating a match made in heaven for this creamy bowl of goodness.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy, tangy slaw cuts through the richness of the soup, creating a delightful textural contrast that brightens up the meal.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet ending, serve a warm apple crisp; its spiced, buttery flavor offers a delightful finish to your comforting dinner.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the dish’s flavors, bringing a touch of brightness to your cozy evening.

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and create a version that sings to your taste buds!

Light & Creamy: Substitute heavy cream with additional milk for a lighter yet still creamy texture. It’s perfect for those wishing to indulge a bit less!
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the bacon to create a delicious vegetarian Old Fashioned Potato Soup. It’s just as cozy!
Herb-Infused: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or smoked paprika. These will bring exciting new flavors to your comforting bowl.
Extra Chunky: For a heartier bite, simply add more diced potatoes or reduce the blending. This way, you’ll keep the comforting textures alive in each spoonful.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheese—like cheddar or gruyere—into the pot just before serving for a luscious cheesy twist. Who doesn’t love a bit of cheese?
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. It’s a great way to keep things exciting on those chilly evenings!
Loaded Version: Top with cooked bacon, sour cream, and shredded cheese for a loaded potato soup experience. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Asian Twist: Try adding some miso for a unique flavor profile. This small tweak can elevate your Old Fashioned Potato Soup to new heights! If you love miso, check out my Miso Soup recipes for some inspiration.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to craft your perfect bowl of comfort!

Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen and improve, giving you another delicious meal!

Freezer: If you need to freeze your Old Fashioned Potato Soup, portion it into containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure the creamy consistency is maintained. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Thawing: To thaw frozen soup, transfer it to the fridge overnight or place it in a pot over low heat, stirring until warmed through and creamy again.

Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Potato Soup

• Onion Sautéing: Cook onions slowly over medium heat to develop a sweet flavor base without browning them; this enhances the soup’s depth.

• Potato Selection: Use russet potatoes for their starchy quality; they break down beautifully, creating a creamy texture in your Old Fashioned Potato Soup.

• Dairy Care: To avoid curdling, reheat soup gently over low heat, stirring frequently—this keeps the soup smooth and creamy.

• Flavor Development: Allow leftover soup to sit overnight; it enhances in flavor, making each bowl even more delectable the next day.

• Garnish Creativity: Get creative with garnishes like crispy bacon or fresh herbs; they add great texture and elevate the final presentation!

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the best texture?
Absolutely! For the best creamy texture in your Old Fashioned Potato Soup, I highly recommend using russet potatoes. They’re starchy, which allows them to break down beautifully, creating that comforting, thick soup you’re aiming for. If you aren’t keen on russet potatoes, Yukon Gold can be a good alternative for a slightly different flavor.

How should I store leftover potato soup?
It’s super easy! Make sure to transfer any leftover Old Fashioned Potato Soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, and guess what? The flavors actually deepen and improve over time—making the next bowl even more delicious!

Can I freeze potato soup, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze it! Portion the Old Fashioned Potato Soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy consistency.

What if my soup turns out too thick or too thin?
No worries if your Old Fashioned Potato Soup doesn’t turn out exactly how you envisioned! If it’s too thick, just stir in a little more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can simmer it longer to let it reduce, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in. Just remember to whisk continuously to avoid lumps!

Is this potato soup safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This recipe is easily adaptable for various dietary needs. To make it vegetarian, simply swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip adding bacon. For lactose-free options, using almond or oat milk can give you a delicious, creamy texture without the dairy. Feel free to customize based on your needs!

How long will the flavors improve after making the soup?
You’re in for a treat! The Old Fashioned Potato Soup tastes even better the day after you make it. Allowing it to sit overnight lets all the flavors meld together beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or leftovers. Just store it in the fridge and enjoy the enhanced taste the next day!

Cozy Up with Old Fashioned Potato Soup for Comforting Nights

Enjoy a warm bowl of Old Fashioned Potato Soup, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 cups

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

4 tablespoons butter adds rich flavor
1 cup chopped onions sweetens the soup
2 cloves minced garlic boosts flavor
1/4 cup flour for thickening
4 cups diced russet potatoes for creamy texture

For the Creaminess

4 cups whole milk can swap with half-and-half
1/2 cup heavy cream optional for richness

For the Flavor

2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian
1/2 teaspoon celery seed optional herb
to taste salt for flavor enhancement
to taste pepper for flavor enhancement

For Garnishing

1 bunch green onions chopped for garnish
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for creamy tang
1/2 cup crispy bacon bits optional for extra flavor

Equipment

large sturdy pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Potato Soup

In a large, sturdy pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup of chopped onions and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Once the onions are softened, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Continue to sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the mixture. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until it turns pale golden.
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of chicken broth. Cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Stir in 4 cups of diced russet potatoes, along with salt and pepper. Optionally add celery seed or thyme. Let it simmer for 20–25 minutes.
Once potatoes are soft, mash some for a chunkier texture or blend for smoothness.
If desired, swirl in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and heat through over low heat.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, cheddar cheese, or bacon bits.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 850mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the soup to sit overnight for enhanced flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion and freeze for up to 3 months.

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