This creamy 4-Ingredient Potato Soup is warm, cozy, and incredibly simple to make. With just potatoes, onions, butter, and milk, you can whip up a satisfying family-friendly meal in under 40 minutes. It’s budget-friendly comfort food at its best — and you probably already have everything you need!
3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled, rinsed & cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
4 tablespoons butter
2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, bacon bits, sour cream
Cook potatoes & onions
Add potatoes and onions to a large Dutch oven. Pour in enough cold water to fully cover the potatoes. Cook over medium-high heat until potatoes are fork-tender and falling apart.
Drain & mash
Remove from heat. Drain most of the water, but leave about 1 cup in the pot. Mash lightly with a potato masher — leave some texture if you like.
Add butter & milk
Stir in butter and milk until smooth and creamy.
Tip: Use an immersion blender for an ultra-creamy texture.
Simmer & season
Return to medium heat and cook for 6–7 more minutes, stirring often. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cool & serve
Let the soup cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Add flavor: Try garlic powder, thyme, or a bay leaf for more depth.
Richer soup: Swap part of the milk for heavy cream or half-and-half.
Extra creamy: Blend fully using an immersion blender.
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery texture.
Make it a meal: Add cooked ham, bacon, or shredded chicken.