Old Fashioned Potato Soup is a traditional recipe that uses basic ingredients like potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth to create a creamy and hearty soup. The soup is thickened with a roux, which is a simple mixture of butter and flour. This classic dish often includes cheese and sour cream for added richness, and it’s garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
The preparation time for Old Fashioned Potato Soup is quick and easy. It typically takes around 30 minutes to prepare the ingredients, and about 20 minutes for the soup to simmer until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together. This makes it a perfect choice for a weekday dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Old Fashioned Potato Soup is a go-to recipe for those looking for a cozy, homemade meal. The soup’s creamy texture and rich flavor make it a family favorite. Whether served with a side of crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup never fails to deliver comfort and satisfaction. Its simplicity and versatility make it easy to adjust to different tastes and preferences, making it a dish that’s always well-loved.
Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Potato Soup
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Old-fashioned potato soup uses common ingredients like potatoes, onions, and broth, yet it delivers rich, comforting flavor. The simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to prepare, even for beginners.
- Perfect for Any Season: This hearty soup is ideal year-round. Whether it’s cold outside or you’re craving a cozy dinner, this potato soup warms you up and satisfies your hunger with every spoonful.
- Customizable to Taste: You can easily adjust the recipe to your preferences. Add bacon, cheese, or fresh herbs for extra flavor and texture. Old-fashioned potato soup is flexible and always delicious!
Ingredient Notes for an Old Fashioned Potato Soup
- Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes, like Russets, for a creamy texture. They break down easily during cooking and make the soup rich and smooth.
- Onion: Adds a savory base flavor. You can use yellow onions for a mild taste or red onions for a slightly sweeter note.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the depth of flavor in the soup. Mince or chop it finely for the best taste.
- Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth: Chicken broth gives the soup a rich, savory base, while vegetable broth is a great option for vegetarians. Both add flavor and moisture.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk provides a creamy texture without making the soup too heavy. It balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
- Unsalted Butter: This is key to adding richness without overpowering the soup. You can add salt later to adjust the seasoning.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the soup and give it a velvety, creamy consistency. Flour creates a smooth base for the soup.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors. Adjust to taste, starting with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper.
- Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika adds color and a subtle smoky flavor to the soup. It pairs well with the creamy texture.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully into the soup, adding sharpness and extra creaminess. You can use mild or sharp cheddar depending on your taste.
- Sour Cream: Stirring in sour cream gives the soup a tangy, creamy finish. It also helps balance the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Chopped Onions or Parsley: Garnishing with fresh onions or parsley adds a burst of freshness and color. Parsley also gives a mild herbaceous note that contrasts with the creamy soup.
Old Fashioned Potato Soup Variation
For a variation, try adding bacon bits or shredded cheese to the soup. These ingredients bring extra flavor and texture. Another variation could include adding vegetables like carrots or celery for a more hearty, nutritious soup. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to customize the taste.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Potato Soup
Serving Old Fashioned Potato Soup is easy and versatile. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A fresh salad or pickled vegetables can complement the soup’s creamy texture and enhance the meal. It’s also delicious when topped with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or green onions.
For a more filling meal, pair the soup with a protein, like grilled chicken or a sandwich. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a cozy evening. Whether served as a starter or the main course, this classic soup is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Storage Options
Old Fashioned Potato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing the soup for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding extra liquid if necessary.
FAQs About Old Fashioned Potato Soup
Can I make Old Fashioned Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make potato soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
What are some variations of Old Fashioned Potato Soup?
You can add ingredients like cheese, bacon, or garlic to give your potato soup a unique twist. For a healthier version, try substituting cream with milk or a plant-based alternative.
How do I thicken Old Fashioned Potato Soup?
To thicken your potato soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a bit of flour or cornstarch. Another option is to stir in heavy cream for a rich, creamy texture.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Potato Soup?
Yes, potato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, cream-based soups may separate slightly when reheated, so it’s best to store them in an airtight container and stir well when reheating.
Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the bacon (optional): If you're using bacon, start by cooking it in a large pot or Dutch oven until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and crumble it for garnish later.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the butter and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir it into the butter. Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Add the broth and potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring, followed by the chopped potatoes. Bring to a simmer and let the soup cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes right in the pot. This will create a thicker texture for the soup while still leaving some chunks for heartiness. You can mash more or less depending on your preference.
- Add the milk and season: Pour in the milk and season the soup with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the soup is heated through.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions or parsley.
