Nothing soothes the body and spirit quite like a steaming bowl of soup on a crisp, chilly day. When that soup is velvety, rich, and brimming with all the beloved toppings of a classic baked potato, it becomes an irresistible comfort food treasure.
This loaded potato soup recipe captures everything cherished about wholesome family meals. It’s creamy, substantial, and loaded with crispy bacon, savory ham, sharp Cheddar cheese, and vibrant green onions — the exact toppings that elevate a baked potato to perfection.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy Sunday supper, a simple weeknight meal, or a warm gathering with loved ones, this soup is the kind of dish that invites everyone to gather around the table. For seniors who treasure hearty, homemade meals, this creamy potato soup feels both nostalgic and approachable — easy to prepare yet delightful enough to share with pride.
Why Potato Soup Is a Timeless Comfort Food
Potatoes have long been a cornerstone of American kitchens. Affordable, adaptable, and deeply satisfying, they anchor countless traditional dishes. From creamy mashed potatoes at holiday feasts to golden hash browns at a diner counter, potatoes consistently deliver warmth and comfort.
Yet, in soup, potatoes truly shine. When simmered until soft and blended with broth, butter, and milk, they create a smooth, luxurious base that absorbs flavors beautifully. Add smoky bacon, hearty 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 both comforting and special.
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to create this soul-warming 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
This blend of ingredients yields a soup that’s thick, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The bacon adds smokiness, the ham brings heartiness, and the cheese delivers a rich, satisfying depth.
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. Drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the skillet. Add the chopped onion to the drippings and cook until softened, 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, or until the potatoes are soft enough to mash with a fork. - Create the Roux
In the skillet used for the bacon, melt the butter over low heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. - Thicken the Soup Base
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. - Incorporate the Fillings
Stir in the diced ham, half the 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 fully heated through. - Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining bacon, cheese, and green onions. Serve 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, breaking down slightly for creaminess while maintaining some chunks.
- Keep the bacon crispy. Mix half into the soup for flavor, but reserve the rest for topping to ensure a delightful crunch.
- Take time with the roux. Cooking the flour and butter for a full minute ensures a smooth, rich 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 Suggestions
This hearty soup is substantial enough to enjoy on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides:
- Warm bread or rolls for dipping.
- A fresh green salad to complement the soup’s richness.
- Pickled vegetables or a fruit salad for a sweet contrast.
- 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 customize 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 manageable, 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 the dish remains flavorful and satisfying. This adaptability makes it a favorite for seniors cooking at home or hosting family.
A Soup to Warm Your Heart and Home
On chilly days, when the wind howls and the nights stretch long, nothing compares to a bowl of this creamy, hearty potato soup. Each spoonful carries the power to comfort, nourish, and unite loved ones around the table.
Whether you’re cooking for a small household or a lively crowd, let this simple, homemade soup become your go-to for warmth, satisfaction, and joy.
