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Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting, creamy and savory dish featuring tender chunks of ham and velvety potatoes. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a hearty and satisfying meal, this classic soup combines simple pantry staples to deliver rich flavor and cozy warmth with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced ham (leftover ham or smoked ham hock)
  • 4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Add-ins

  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
  • Carrots, celery, or peas (for vegetable boost)
  • Shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese
  • Smoked paprika or chipotle powder
  • Cauliflower florets (for low-carb option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces. Peel and cube the potatoes evenly. Chop the onion and mince the garlic to have everything ready for cooking.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for 3-5 minutes until soft and fragrant, forming the flavor base.
  3. Build the Soup Base: Sprinkle flour over the butter and aromatics mixture. Stir continuously and cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour does not brown, to create a thickening roux.
  4. Add Broth and Potatoes: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps. Add the cubed potatoes and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  5. Incorporate Ham and Cream: Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream, warming through without boiling to avoid curdling. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the soup is thick and creamy.
  6. Season and Serve: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Ladle into bowls and enjoy the warm, comforting soup.

Notes

  • Use leftover ham to add rich flavor and reduce waste.
  • Don’t overcook potatoes; keep them tender but intact to avoid a mushy soup.
  • Add cream gradually off the heat or at low temperature to prevent curdling.
  • Cook flour properly in the roux to avoid lumps when adding broth.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their bright flavor and freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham soup, potato soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, hearty soup, leftover ham recipe