Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic for Every Season
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of ham and potato soup. This hearty, creamy dish is perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying meal. Packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, velvety broth, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love. In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for the best ham and potato soup, along with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Budget-Friendly: It’s a great way to use leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for family dinner or a potluck, this soup is always a hit.
- Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients for Ham and Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup (serves 6-8):
- 3 cups diced ham (leftover ham works great!)
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal)
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Peel and dice the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Finely chop the onion.
2. Cook the Base
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (this will thicken the soup).
3. Add Liquids and Simmer
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes, ham, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy
- Stir in the milk (or half-and-half) and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken. Be careful not to boil the milk to prevent curdling.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, or bacon bits. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Ham and Potato Soup
- Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday ham. Just dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour to the roux. For a thinner soup, add extra broth or water.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like corn, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes, carrots, and celery work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
This ham and potato soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a cozy meal for yourself, this soup is sure to hit the spot. With its creamy texture, savory ham, and tender vegetables, it’s a dish that will warm your heart and your belly.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family—it’s too good not to pass along.
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