Old-Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe is the simple, comforting soup I grew up with—and to this day, I still think it’s the best! Made with just four ingredients (plus salt and pepper), this classic homemade potato soup is creamy, cozy, and perfect for a chilly day when you need a warm, satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a simple potato soup recipe that’s been passed down for generations, you’ve found it.

And if you love a hearty homemade soup, check out my Stuffed Cabbage Soup and Easy Split Pea Soup.

This was originally published in February 2022 and updated in March 2025 for clarity. The recipe remains the same. 

The Story Behind This Cozy Potato Soup

Back when I was a kid, my dad often made this potato soup recipe for lunch or dinner on cold days. While my mom was the main cook in our house, my dad had his specialties, and this easy potato soup was one of them. I’m pretty sure this comforting recipe came from my grandma, making it a long-standing family tradition.

In Grandma’s day, potato soup was made plain and unfussy—no loaded toppings, no extra frills. Just simple, homemade potato soup thickened naturally by the starch from the potatoes and milk (making it naturally gluten-free). Despite its simplicity, this old-fashioned potato soup is packed with flavor from the butter, onions, and potatoes. Of course, you can add shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or sour cream, but I love it just as it is—with a generous sprinkle of ground black pepper.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Classic Potato Soup Recipe

This easy potato soup recipe calls for just a few pantry staples:

Potatoes – The star of the show! For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds. Avoid waxy potatoes (like red potatoes), as they won’t thicken the soup properly.

Onions – Yellow or sweet onions (like Vidalia) give the best flavor.

Butter – Adds richness. For a vegan version, swap in plant-based butter or oil.

Milk – Whole milk makes the creamiest soup, but you can use half-and-half for an even richer texture or low-fat milk for a lighter option. If using non-dairy milk, choose an unsweetened variety.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out the best flavor.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to jazz up this homemade potato soup recipe? Try these tasty additions:

Celery – Sauté with the onions for extra depth.

Celery – Sauté minced garlic with the onions for a hint of garlicky flavor.

Stock or Broth – Boil the potatoes in chicken broth or vegetable broth for added flavor.

Bacon – Top with crispy crumbled bacon for a loaded-style soup.

Sour Cream – A dollop will make the soup even creamier.

Cheddar Cheese – Stir in sharp cheddar for a cheesy twist.

Green Onions or Chives – Sprinkle on top for a fresh pop of flavor.

How to Make the Best Old-Fashioned Potato Soup

Follow these simple steps for the perfect potato soup every time:

• Use a large pot or Dutch oven. A heavy-bottomed 6-quart pot helps prevent burning or boiling over.
• Salt the potato water. When boiling the potatoes, add a few pinches of salt for better flavor. Save some cooking water to thin the soup if needed.
• Sauté the onions in butter. Cooking them until golden brings out their sweetness and enhances the flavor.
• Heat the milk gently. Avoid boiling it to prevent curdling.
• Mash to your preferred texture. Mash about half the potatoes for a chunky soup or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency.
• Season to taste. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed, adding a generous amount of black pepper for a cozy, nostalgic flavor.
• Enjoy this simple potato soup recipe year-round! It’s not just for cold weather—this classic soup is delicious any time of year.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your homemade potato soup with fresh bread for a perfect meal. Try it with:

• Cheddar Rosemary Beer Bread
• Soft and Fluffy Dinner Rolls
• Maple Corn Muffins