There’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Potato Soup on a cold day. Made with simple ingredients like potatoes, onions, butter, and milk, this soup is creamy, filling, and full of nostalgic flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of family dinners, snow days, and the warm smell of something delicious simmering on the stove.
The first time I made this soup, I was craving something cozy but simple — something that didn’t need fancy ingredients or a lot of effort. I peeled a few potatoes, sautéed some onion, and slowly stirred in milk and butter. The result was everything I hoped for: rich, velvety, and heartwarming. Now it’s a regular on my comfort food rotation alongside my Cheddar Broccoli Potato Soup and Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
Old-Fashioned Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, combine diced potatoes, onion, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot — this helps thicken the soup while keeping some texture.
- Stir in milk and butter. Simmer on low heat for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup becomes creamy. Don’t let it boil after adding milk.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Top with cheese, bacon, or green onions if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Potato Soup
This recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something delicious. It’s creamy without being heavy, naturally gluten-free if thickened with mashed potatoes, and perfect for leftovers. It’s also easy to customize — you can make it chunky or smooth, simple or loaded.
If you love nostalgic recipes like my Garten Shepherd’s Pie or French Onion Ground Beef, this Old-Fashioned Potato Soup delivers the same warmth and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- A splash of cream for extra richness
If you enjoy creamy soups that warm the soul, you’ll also love my Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup — another easy, feel-good classic.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
In a large pot, combine diced potatoes, onion, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 2: Mash for Texture
Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot — this helps thicken the soup while keeping some texture.
Step 3: Add Milk and Butter
Stir in milk and butter. Simmer on low heat for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup becomes creamy. Don’t let it boil after adding milk.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Optional Add-Ons
Top with cheese, bacon, or green onions if you like it loaded. Serve warm with crusty bread or my Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls.
If you love cozy one-pot recipes, this one’s as simple and satisfying as my Chicken Enchilada Soup.
Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Potato Soup
- Use starchy potatoes: Russet or Yukon Golds make the creamiest texture.
- Don’t overblend: Overmixing can make the soup gummy — mash gently instead.
- Add richness: A splash of cream or a pat of butter takes it up a notch.
- Make it heartier: Stir in leftover chicken, ham, or corn.
These small details bring the same comfort and flavor as my Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Best to freeze before adding milk or cream; add fresh when reheating.
Reheating: Warm slowly over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk to thin if needed.
Like my Cabbage Detox Soup, this soup reheats beautifully — the flavor deepens overnight.
Flavor Variations
- Loaded Potato Soup: Add cheddar, bacon, and sour cream for extra indulgence.
- Creamy Corn Potato Soup: Stir in a cup of corn kernels for a touch of sweetness.
- Smoky Twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.
- Herb Infused: Stir in thyme or parsley for fresh flavor.
If you enjoy reinventing comfort classics, this recipe is as versatile as my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Yes! Stir in mashed potatoes to thicken and add creaminess.
2. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely — just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Can I use milk alternatives?
Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk works well for a lighter version.
4. How can I make it thicker?
Mash more potatoes or stir in a tablespoon of instant potato flakes.
The Final Bite
This Old-Fashioned Potato Soup is cozy, simple, and full of homestyle flavor. It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down, grab a blanket, and savor every bite. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, satisfying bowl that feels like a warm hug.
Serve it with No-Knead Dutch Oven Bread or Christmas Bread Recipe for the ultimate comfort meal.