If you’re craving pure, cozy comfort, this Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe is the answer. It’s creamy, hearty, and rich with flavor, combining rustic potatoes, sautéed onions, and milky goodness in every bowlful. Whether you need a simple supper on a blustery weeknight or an inviting starter for a big family meal, this soup never fails to satisfy. Packed with familiar ingredients and the nostalgic warmth of home-cooked goodness, this is one recipe you’ll want to make all season long.

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity—every ingredient plays an important part, lending delicious flavor, gentle texture, and just the right amount of richness. Keep these humble kitchen staples on hand, and you’ll always be ready for a bowlful of comfort.

Russet Potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced): The star of the show; choose russets for their fluffy texture which creates that classic, creamy consistency.
Yellow Onion (1 small, chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and backbone of flavor to the soup base.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Just enough to deepen the flavor—let it soften gently for best results.
Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons): Essential for sautéing and creating the rich roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons): Forms the roux, giving the soup its luscious, creamy body.
Whole Milk (4 cups): Provides the soup’s creamy foundation—don’t skimp here for best flavor and texture.
Chicken Broth (1 cup): Adds depth and a hint of savoriness; swap for veggie broth for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream (1/2 cup, optional): For extra decadence—stir in at the end if you want an ultra-rich, silky soup.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors to life; taste and adjust if needed.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and balance.
Celery Seed or Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon, optional): One or the other adds a gentle herbal note that echoes classic old-fashioned soups.
Chopped Green Onions (for garnish, optional): Sprinkle on top for fresh, zippy contrast.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for garnish, optional): Melts deliciously into each warm serving.
Crumbled Bacon (for garnish, optional): Adds a savory crunch for those who want a little something extra.

How to Make Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by setting a large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add your chopped onion. Let the onion cook gently for about 4–5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent—don’t rush this step, as it forms the backbone of that classic homestyle flavor! Stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for another 30 seconds. You want the kitchen to smell inviting, not overpowering.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the buttery onions and garlic, whisking constantly. This mixture, known as a roux, thickens your soup and ensures every spoonful will have that dreamy, creamy texture. Cook for about 1–2 minutes, just until the raw flour scent fades but before it takes on much color—it should stay pale and smooth.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Potatoes

Gradually pour in the whole milk and chicken broth, whisking as you go to keep the soup base smooth. Keep stirring for about 5 minutes until the mixture just begins to thicken. Now toss in your diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and (if using) celery seed or thyme. Stir, bring to a gentle simmer, and take in the aroma—this is the heartwarming scent of homemade soup!

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Let the soup simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring now and then. The potatoes should become perfectly fork-tender, absorbing all those delicious flavors. If you love a thicker, heartier texture, go ahead and mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher right in the pot or use an immersion blender until you reach your ideal consistency. Some chunks are a good thing—it’s rustic and cozy!

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Swirl in the heavy cream for extra richness if you like, and let the soup warm through for another couple of minutes. Ladle piping hot soup into bowls, then top as desired with green onions, cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon. The Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe is ready to soothe and satisfy!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to topping your bowl, don’t be shy! A flourish of chopped green onions adds freshness, a little shredded cheddar creates gooey, melty goodness, and if you want a salty crunch, a sprinkle of crispy bacon is just the ticket. These final touches take the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe from comforting to irresistible.

Side Dishes

Spoon up your soup alongside a buttery slice of crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a hunk of classic cornbread—these are perfect for dunking. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe an extra dash of flair by serving it in hearty bread bowls, or ladling it into mini mugs as an appetizer for gatherings. For brunch, offer a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own bowl with cheese, herbs, and bacon—guests will love the DIY fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup is a gift for future you! Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making those next-day bowls even more delicious. If the soup thickens in the fridge, just add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen it up.

Freezing

The Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe can be frozen, but keep in mind the texture may change a bit due to the dairy. Freeze in individual portions for convenience, leaving a little space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently for best results.

Reheating

Warm the soup over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring frequently so nothing sticks. If it seems extra thick, stir in a little milk or broth until it’s velvety-smooth again. Avoid bringing it to a rolling boil so the dairy doesn’t separate—low and slow keeps the texture creamy and perfect.

FAQs

Can I make the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and skip the bacon garnish. You’ll still get all the creamy richness and homey flavor you crave.

How do I get the soup extra creamy?

If you love a super-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree most of it right in the pot. Adding the optional heavy cream also brings on that next-level silkiness!

What potatoes are best for this soup?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy, fluffy texture—they break down beautifully and give the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe its classic, thick texture.

Can I make this ahead for a party?

Definitely! Make the soup a day or two in advance and reheat gently before serving. It’s a great make-ahead option for feeding a crowd, and the flavors even improve as it rests.

Is the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses flour to thicken, but you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry if needed. The flavor and cozy feel will be every bit as irresistible!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, you can’t go wrong with the Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe. It’s easy, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try soon—there’s nothing like the smell of homemade potato soup wafting through your kitchen to make everyone smile!

Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 4 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this comforting Old Fashioned Potato Soup. Made with tender russet potatoes, aromatic garlic, and a hint of thyme, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

4 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes (about 4 medium)
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Soup:

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon celery seed or dried thyme (optional)

For Garnish:

Chopped green onions
Shredded cheddar cheese
Crumbled bacon

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Instructions

Saute Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic.
Create Roux: Sprinkle in flour and whisk to form a roux.
Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in milk and broth. Stir until smooth.
Cook Potatoes: Add potatoes, salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
Thicken Soup: Mash some potatoes for texture. Stir in cream if using.
Serve: Top with green onions, cheddar, or bacon.