Nothing soothes the body and spirit quite like a steaming bowl of soup on a brisk autumn evening. When that soup is velvety, rich, and brimming with all the savory toppings of a classic baked potato, it becomes a cherished comfort dish that warms every heart.
This loaded potato soup recipe captures the essence of wholesome family dining. It’s hearty, flavorful, and loaded with crispy bacon, savory ham, sharp Cheddar cheese, and vibrant green onions — all the elements that make a baked potato unforgettable.
Perfect for a Sunday family meal, a simple weeknight dinner, or a warm gathering with loved ones, this soup invites everyone to the table. For seniors who treasure homemade dishes, this creamy potato soup feels both nostalgic and approachable — easy to prepare, yet elegant enough to serve with pride.
Why Potato Soup Feels Like Home
Potatoes have long been a cornerstone of American kitchens. Affordable, adaptable, and deeply satisfying, they anchor countless beloved recipes. From creamy mashed potatoes at holiday feasts to golden hash browns at breakfast, potatoes always bring comfort.
In soup, potatoes shine brightest. Simmered until soft and blended with broth, butter, and milk, they create a smooth, luxurious base that absorbs every flavor. Add smoky bacon, savory ham, tangy sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of sharp Cheddar, and you’ve crafted a loaded baked potato soup that’s both indulgent and heartwarming.
For many older adults, this recipe evokes cherished memories — perhaps of cozy dinners on frosty evenings, community potlucks, or joyful weekends cooking for family. It’s a dish that feels timeless yet special.
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish:
- 1 package (12 oz) bacon
- 1 ½ cups chopped onion
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 lb baking potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ⅔ cup butter
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 container (8 oz) sour cream
- 2 ½ cups (10 oz) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
- ¾ cup sliced green onions, divided
These ingredients combine to form a soup that’s creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor. The bacon adds smokiness, the ham brings heartiness, and the cheese delivers a bold, comforting richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Bacon and Onion
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat for 6 to 7 minutes, until crisp and golden. Drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside. Keep 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet. Add the chopped onion to the drippings and cook until soft and fragrant, about 6 minutes.
Cook the Potatoes
In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the onion, chicken broth, and cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the potatoes are tender enough to mash easily with a fork.
Create the Roux
In the skillet used for bacon, melt the butter over low heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until the mixture is blended and velvety.
Thicken the Soup
Pour the milk mixture into the pot with the potatoes and broth. Add the remaining 2 cups of milk, along with the salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the soup thickens and begins to bubble gently.
Incorporate the Toppings
Stir in the diced ham, half the crumbled bacon, the sour cream, 2 cups of Cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of green onions. Cook gently until the cheese melts and the soup is warmed through.
Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining bacon, cheese, and green onions. Serve piping hot, paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Potato Soup
Select the Right Potatoes: Baking potatoes, such as Russets, provide the ideal texture, softening enough to create a creamy base while retaining some chunks.
Keep Bacon Crispy: Mix half the bacon into the soup for flavor, but reserve the rest for topping to maintain its crunch.
Perfect the Roux: Cook the flour and butter for a full minute to ensure a smooth, robust soup without a raw flour taste.
Customize the Texture: For an even creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup before adding the toppings.
Serving Ideas
This soup is substantial enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides:
Warm bread or dinner rolls for dipping
A fresh green salad to complement the richness
Pickled vegetables or a fruit salad for a touch of sweetness
A light dessert like apple crisp or oatmeal cookies to round out the meal
For gatherings, place the soup in a large pot at the table’s center, with bowls of bacon, cheese, and green onions for guests to personalize their servings.
Why Seniors Cherish This Recipe
For older adults, dishes like loaded baked potato soup offer more than delicious flavor. They embody warmth, tradition, and connection. The ingredients are budget-friendly, the steps are simple, and leftovers reheat wonderfully for another meal.
This soup is also versatile. Swap ham for turkey or use low-fat milk instead of whole, and it remains hearty and flavorful. This adaptability makes it a go-to for seniors cooking at home or hosting family.
A Dish to Warm Heart and Home
On chilly evenings, when the air feels crisp and the nights grow long, nothing comforts like a bowl of this creamy, loaded potato soup. Each spoonful carries the warmth of home, the joy of shared meals, and the satisfaction of a dish well-made.
Whether you’re cooking for a quiet dinner or a lively family gathering, this homemade soup is your recipe for nourishment, comfort, and happiness.
