Created on November 15th, 2025 at 08:30 pm
A hearty and creamy classic that warms the soul
Potato soup is a timeless comfort food that evokes memories of warmth and home. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavor found in each creamy spoonful. The velvety texture, punctuated by tender chunks of potato, creates a meal that nourishes both body and spirit. As it simmers on the stove, the rich aroma of butter and garlic fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this old-fashioned potato soup is perfect for chilly evenings when all you want is to feel at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This potato soup is wonderfully satisfying, with its smooth, creamy base balanced by the earthiness of potatoes and the subtle sweetness of onions. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The flavors meld beautifully as it simmers, creating a dish that warms you up from the inside out. Enjoy it on its own or topped with crispy bacon, freshly chopped chives, or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. The soup often tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to deepen even further.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients List
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: crispy turkey bacon, chopped chives, or shredded cheese for garnish
Kitchen Tools
This recipe makes use of just a few simple tools, keeping the cooking process straightforward and stress-free.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knives
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. The aroma of sautéing onions adds a savory depth to the soup.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic will bring a fragrant note that complements the onions beautifully.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to coarsely mash some of the potato pieces. This will help thicken the soup and create a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon, chopped chives, or shredded cheese if desired. The toppings add a delightful contrast of flavors to the creamy base.
Pro Tips
- For added depth, consider sautéing some diced celery or carrots along with the onions.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender before adding the cream.
- Using homemade broth enhances the richness and flavor of the soup.
- Experiment with different potato varieties for unique flavors and textures.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, often tasting even better the next day.
Comforting Simplicity
Old-fashioned potato soup embodies the warmth and nostalgia of a family meal. Its creamy consistency, combined with the gentle flavors of onion and garlic, makes it a true comfort dish. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it shows how delightful home-cooked meals can be without unnecessary complexity. This dish proves that gourmet comfort can be simple and satisfying.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Old-Fashioned Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: crispy bacon, chopped chives, or shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Cooking
- Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to coarsely mash some of the potato pieces.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon, chopped chives, or shredded cheese if desired.
Notes
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