The Heartiest Ham and Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort comes alive in this hearty ham and potato soup that promises warmth with every spoonful.

Chunks of savory meat mingle with creamy potatoes, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Weeknight dinners find their perfect match in this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Layers of smoky ham blend seamlessly with tender potato pieces, offering a soul-warming experience.

Memories of cozy kitchen moments emerge as the soup simmers gently.

Seasonal ingredients transform into a nourishing meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Dig in and let this soup become your new cold-weather companion.

Ham and Potato Soup Highlights

• Craft a Hearty Comfort Meal: This ham and potato soup wraps you in warmth with its rich, creamy texture and satisfying ingredients that feel like a hug in a bowl.
• Master Simple Cooking Techniques: Learn basic culinary skills like making a roux, sautéing vegetables, and creating a smooth soup without complicated steps.
• Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers: The soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy multiple servings throughout the week and save time on cooking.
• Versatile Family Favorite: Packed with familiar ingredients like ham, potatoes, and vegetables, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal family dinner option.

Ingredients for Ham and Potato Soup

• Onion: A flavorful base that adds depth to the soup's foundation.
• Celery: Provides a subtle, fresh crunch and aromatic background.
• Carrots: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
• Garlic: Adds a rich, intense flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Potatoes: The hearty main ingredient that gives the soup its creamy texture and substance.

• Ham: A savory protein that adds smoky richness and additional flavor to the soup.

• Chicken Broth: Creates the liquid base for the soup and adds a subtle chicken flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious, smooth, and creamy consistency to the soup.

• Butter, Flour: Work together to create a roux that thickens the soup.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the soup's overall flavor.

• Fresh Herbs: Add a bright, fresh finish to the soup if desired.

How to Prepare Ham and Potato Soup

Step 1: Sizzle Veggie Base

• Onions
• Celery
• Carrots

Cook these veggies until they’re soft and releasing their sweet aroma, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2: Unleash Garlic Magic

Drop minced garlic into the pot and let it dance around for about 30 seconds, releasing its incredible fragrance and adding depth to the flavor profile.

Step 3: Create Silky Thickening Agent

Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture and stir continuously, creating a smooth roux that will help thicken the soup beautifully.

Step 4: Pour Liquid Gold

Slowly stream chicken broth into the pot, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming and ensure a velvety smooth texture.

Step 5: Potato Party

Add cubed potatoes to the broth and let them simmer gently, cooking until they’re tender but not falling apart, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Ham Harmony

Fold in chopped ham and let it warm through, allowing its smoky flavor to infuse the entire soup with deliciousness.

Step 7: Creamy Finale

Pour in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients into a luxurious, comforting soup.

Step 8: Serve With Flair

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips for Ham and Potato Soup

• Swap regular milk for dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk to create a lactose-free version of this creamy soup.
• Enhance the soup's flavor by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or thyme during the sautéing stage for extra depth.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and cutting back on added salt, perfect for those watching their salt intake.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing ham with diced mushrooms or plant-based protein and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Boost nutrition by leaving potato skins on, which add extra fiber and minerals to the hearty soup.

Flavor Variations for Ham and Potato Soup

• Vegetarian Potato Soup: Replace ham with smoked tofu or plant-based bacon bits for a meat-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup and ensure gluten-free ingredients.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lactose-free alternative.
• Spicy Southwest Variation: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and top with jalapeños for a zesty kick.

Serving Suggestions for Ham and Potato Soup

• Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this hearty soup in large ceramic bowls, placing a warm crusty bread slice on the side for dipping and soaking up the rich, creamy broth.
• Winter Comfort Meal Combo: Pair the soup with a crisp green salad and sprinkle some extra ham chunks on top for added protein and texture, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
• Rustic Soup Night Experience: Present the soup in individual cast-iron skillets for a charming, homestyle presentation that keeps the soup warm and feels extra special for family gatherings.
• Gourmet Garnish Twist: Top the soup with crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, and a small dollop of sour cream to elevate the flavor profile and add visual appeal to the classic comfort dish.

Storage Advice for Ham and Potato Soup

• Store leftover ham and potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before transferring to the container to prevent bacterial growth.
• Avoid freezing this soup, as cream-based soups tend to separate and lose their smooth texture when thawed.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and maintain the creamy consistency.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of meat instead of ham?

Yes, you can substitute ham with cooked bacon, chicken, or even turkey for a different flavor profile.

• Is this soup suitable for freezing?

The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, but the texture might slightly change due to the cream and potatoes.

• How can I make this soup healthier?

Replace heavy cream with milk or use a low-fat alternative, and add more vegetables to increase nutritional value.

• What if I don't have fresh herbs for garnish?

No problem! You can use dried herbs like parsley or chives, or skip the garnish altogether without affecting the soup’s taste.

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

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4.9 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty ham and potato soup delights winter comfort food enthusiasts with its creamy richness. Simple ingredients combine for a satisfying meal that warms diners from the inside out.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein and Vegetables:

• 2 cups diced ham
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced

Liquid and Dairy Base:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Seasonings and Thickeners:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté diced onions, celery, and carrots until they become translucent and softened, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Introduce minced garlic to the vegetable mixture and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until aromatic.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to create a smooth, golden roux that coats the ingredients evenly.
4. Slowly pour chicken broth into the pot, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a silky, uniform base.
5. Add cubed potatoes to the liquid, allowing them to simmer and become tender, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Incorporate diced ham into the soup, letting it warm through and infuse its smoky flavor into the broth for 3-4 minutes.
7. Pour in heavy cream, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, gently stirring to combine and heating the soup until it reaches a warm, steamy temperature.
8. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a vibrant, aromatic finish.

Notes

• Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best creamy texture and even cooking.
• Dice ham into uniform small cubes to ensure consistent flavor distribution throughout the soup.
• Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent the soup from becoming too salty.
• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the soup.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg