The Cozy Joy of Old Fashioned Potato Soup
There’s something magical about a warm, homemade bowl of potato soup, especially when the chill in the air calls for something hearty. Old fashioned potato soup is one of those comforting dishes that doesn’t need fancy ingredients or a complicated process it’s simply perfect in its wholesome simplicity. Maybe you remember a family member making this, the aroma filling the kitchen, the taste unmistakably nostalgic. Now, with this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate that comforting bowl at home and perhaps make some new memories along the way.
Easy Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe
This guide will walk you through the exact steps needed to prepare old-fashioned potato soup, and you’ll also find a few customization options to suit your preferences.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe
One of the wonderful things about this recipe is that it calls for ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s simple yet satisfying, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 5-6 large |
| Onion | 1 large |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Optional Garnishes | Bacon bits, chives, shredded cheese |
Why These Ingredients Work Together
Each ingredient in this recipe has a specific purpose, adding to the soup’s overall flavor and texture:
- Potatoes are the star, creating the hearty base of the soup.
- Onion brings a subtle sweetness that complements the starchiness of the potatoes.
- Butter enhances the richness, while milk gives the soup its creamy consistency without needing heavy cream.
- Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, but you can adjust them based on your taste.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Potato Soup
Making old fashioned potato soup is a straightforward process, yet each step is key to achieving the perfect consistency and flavor.
Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by prepping your ingredients. Peel the potatoes and dice them into evenly-sized chunks to ensure even cooking. Chop the onion finely, as this will help it dissolve into the soup and blend well with the other flavors.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.
If you plan on adding garnishes, prepare those as well. Chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or shredded cheddar cheese all make excellent toppings, adding a touch of flavor and texture to each bowl.
Step 2 – Sauté the Onion
Start by melting the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion, cooking until it turns soft and translucent. This step releases the onion’s sweetness, which will add depth to your soup. Be careful not to burn the onion; you want it soft but not brown.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.
Step 3 – Cook the Potatoes
Once the onion is ready, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the potatoes completely. This liquid will soften the potatoes, and any leftover liquid will blend into the soup later, making it creamy. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, letting the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.
Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe
Step 4 – Blend for Creaminess
To achieve the classic creamy texture of old-fashioned potato soup, you’ll need to blend part (or all) of the mixture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, only blend half of the mixture. For a smooth consistency, blend it all. An immersion blender works wonderfully for this, but if you don’t have one, a regular blender will work as well—just be sure to let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to avoid splatters.
Step 5 – Add Milk and Seasonings
Once the soup is blended to your desired consistency, return it to the pot and stir in the milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently, ensuring it doesn’t come to a boil, as this can cause the milk to curdle.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.
Customizing Your Potato Soup
One of the joys of cooking at home is making a dish your own. Here are some ways to adjust the soup’s flavor, texture, or overall presentation.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.
Add Toppings
Adding toppings can elevate your bowl of soup, giving it added texture and flavor. Here are some popular topping options:
- Bacon bits: For a savory, crispy bite.
- Shredded cheese: Adds richness and a hint of sharpness.
- Chives or green onions: Provides a fresh, slightly tangy contrast.
- Sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs well with potatoes.
Swap Ingredients
While the original recipe uses milk, you can easily adjust it based on dietary needs or personal taste:
- Heavy cream instead of milk will give a richer, thicker soup.
- Non-dairy milk options like almond, oat, or soy milk are great if you’re looking to make the soup dairy-free.
- Add a few cloves of garlic or a pinch of herbs like thyme or rosemary while sautéing the onions for extra flavor.
Make It a Complete Meal
For a more filling meal, consider pairing your potato soup with:
- Freshly baked bread: A crusty baguette or homemade rolls are perfect for dipping.
- Side salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted vegetables: Add a side of roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This old-fashioned potato soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may notice the soup has thickened; simply add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.
How can I make this old-fashioned potato soup recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a dairy-free butter alternative for sautéing the onions, and substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
What type of potato works best for this soup?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their high starch content, which gives the soup a thick and creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option, adding a naturally buttery flavor.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned potato soup recipe brings together simple ingredients for a meal that warms the body and soul. Whether you’re looking for a taste of nostalgia or a quick and comforting dinner option, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Plus, with the ability to customize the toppings and flavors, it’s versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes.
Ready to bring the warmth of this classic soup into your kitchen? Try it out, and don’t forget to add your own special touch! And if you loved the recipe, share it with friends or family so they, too, can enjoy a bowl of this comforting classic.Old Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe.