Ham and Potato Soup

Discover the comforting flavors of Ham and Potato Soup, a hearty recipe that warms your soul with every creamy, savory spoonful. This classic dish combines tender chunks of ham with velvety potatoes to deliver a rich, satisfying meal perfect for any time you crave cozy comfort food. Whether you’re serving it up on a chilly evening or looking for an easy meal to share with family, Ham and Potato Soup never fails to bring warmth to both your kitchen and your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor: The magic lies in basic pantry staples coming together to create a deeply savory soup.
• Hearty and Filling: With chunks of ham and creamy potatoes, this soup turns any meal into a satisfying, stick-to-your-ribs experience.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe adapts easily to your schedule and taste.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something soothing about a warm bowl that reminds you of home and family.
• Easy to Customize: From swapping veggies to adjusting the creaminess, Ham and Potato Soup welcomes your personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Ham and Potato Soup plays a role in building its rich texture and comforting flavor. These simple essentials make this recipe approachable and rewarding, giving you a soup that’s as tasty as it is straightforward to prepare.

• Ham: Use leftover ham or a smoked ham hock for robust, savory flavor throughout the soup.
• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy texture without falling apart too much.
• Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
• Garlic: Delivers a warm, aromatic note that enhances the overall taste.
• Chicken Broth: Provides a flavorful base that complements the ham and softens the potatoes.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: Adds luscious creaminess to create that classic velvety soup feel.
• Butter: For richness and to sauté the aromatics with a silky finish.
• Flour: Acts as a thickener, giving the soup a perfect consistency.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and seasoning to taste.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): Parsley or thyme make lovely garnishes adding freshness and color.

Variations for Ham and Potato Soup

This recipe serves as a fantastic foundation, ready to adapt based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to explore these easy variations to make the soup uniquely yours.

• Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, celery, or peas for more color and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace cream with coconut milk or almond milk to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Smoky Twist: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a subtle smoky heat.
• Extra Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or Gruyere for an indulgent cheesy soup.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter but equally satisfying result.

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing your ham into bite-sized pieces and peeling and cubing the potatoes evenly. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so they are ready to infuse their flavors during cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes, creating a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Sprinkle flour into the pot and stir well to combine with the butter and aromatics. This mixture will thicken the soup, so cook it for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Add the cubed potatoes and bring the pot to a gentle boil, reducing heat to simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Ham and Cream

Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream, heating through but not boiling to keep the cream from curdling. Simmer until the soup is thick and creamy, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Add any fresh herbs if desired, ladle into bowls, and enjoy the soul-warming goodness.

Pro Tips for Making Ham and Potato Soup

• Use Leftover Ham: This is a great way to reduce waste and add rich flavor from a previous meal.
• Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Keep them tender but intact to avoid turning the soup too starchy or mushy.
• Gradual Cream Addition: Add cream off the heat or at low temperature to prevent curdling.
• Thicken Gradually: Stir in flour carefully and cook it properly before adding broth to avoid lumps.
• Fresh Herbs at the End: Add parsley, thyme, or chives just before serving to preserve their bright flavor.

How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, chives, or a dash of paprika on top to brighten the presentation and add a fresh flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or crackers to complete the meal and add different textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic feel or top with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream for an extra-special touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Ham and Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, though it’s best to leave out cream when freezing and add it fresh upon reheating to retain creaminess without separation.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen if the soup has thickened.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ham or only leftover ham for this soup?

You can use fresh ham, smoked ham, or leftover ham; each will impart a slightly different flavor, but all add delicious savory depth to the soup.

Is Ham and Potato Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well if you add cream after reheating. This prevents texture changes and keeps the soup smooth and rich.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth; adding smoked paprika can help replicate the smoky flavor.

What type of potatoes is best for this recipe?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape while becoming tender, giving the soup the perfect creamy texture.

How long does Ham and Potato Soup keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the soup stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Ham and Potato Soup to bring comfort and joy on any day. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simple and satisfying, making it a must-have in your comfort food arsenal. Give it a try, and watch how each spoonful feels like a cozy hug for your soul.

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