Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

When the weather cools down and you're in need of something warm and comforting, nothing quite hits the spot like a hearty bowl of Ham and Potato Soup. This creamy, flavorful dish is the ultimate comfort food—rich, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you're cooking for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the perfect Ham and Potato Soup at home. Let’s dive in!

this Recipe

What Is Ham and Potato Soup?

Ham and Potato Soup is a thick, creamy soup made with diced potatoes, chunks of ham, and a savory broth or creamy base. It’s often flavored with onions, garlic, and herbs for depth of flavor. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the creamy texture, makes it a perfect option for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal.

This soup offers the best of both worlds: a nutrient-packed dish that's hearty enough to stand alone, yet versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides.

Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup

To make a delicious Ham and Potato Soup, you'll need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of diced ham (leftover ham works great)
• 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
• 1 cup of heavy cream (for added richness)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy twist)
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes:

• For a richer soup, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, or even use whole milk if you prefer a lighter option.
• If you want extra veggies, you can add carrots, celery, or even corn to the recipe.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the beauties of Ham and Potato Soup is how adaptable it can be. Depending on dietary needs, availability of ingredients, or personal preferences, there are several substitutions and variations you can try.

• Ham Substitute: If you don’t have ham, you can substitute with bacon, smoked sausage, or even a vegetarian ham alternative to create a similar savory flavor.
• Potato Varieties: While russet potatoes are traditional, you can use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture or even red potatoes for a firmer bite.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version of this soup. Make sure to use a neutral-flavored non-dairy milk so that it doesn’t alter the soup’s taste too much.
• Cheesy Variation: For an indulgent, cheesy version of the soup, add 1-2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese at the end of cooking and stir until melted.
• Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour for thickening the soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking your own batch of homemade Ham and Potato Soup? Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure it turns out perfectly creamy and delicious.

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Begin by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Set them aside.
   • Dice the ham and finely chop the onion and garlic.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Make the Roux:
   • Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic and stir well to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flour to lightly brown. This will help thicken the soup later.
4. Add the Broth and Potatoes:
   • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once smooth, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Add Ham and Herbs:
   • Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the diced ham, dried thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Stir in Cream:
   • Finally, pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Allow the soup to heat through without bringing it to a boil—this will keep the cream from curdling.
7. Optional: Add Cheese:
   • For a cheesy version, add shredded cheddar cheese at this stage. Stir until fully melted and combined.
8. Adjust Seasonings:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a little more broth or water.

How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the step-by-step process:

1. Chop the ingredients: potatoes, ham, onions, and garlic.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Make a roux by adding flour and stirring until golden brown.
4. Add broth and diced potatoes, then bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
6. Add ham and herbs, then season with salt and pepper.
7. Stir in cream and optional cheese for a rich finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Potatoes: If you cook the potatoes for too long, they will become mushy and fall apart. Be sure to simmer just until they’re tender but still holding their shape.
• Curdling the Cream: Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream. Boiling dairy can cause it to curdle and ruin the texture of the soup.
• Skipping the Roux: The flour-butter mixture (roux) is essential for thickening the soup. Don’t skip this step if you want a rich and creamy soup.
• Underseasoning: Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so don’t be afraid to season your soup generously. Taste as you go to adjust the flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Ham and Potato Soup can elevate the dish from a simple meal to a more refined dining experience. Here are a few ideas to make it extra special.

How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

• Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a crusty bread bowl for a restaurant-style presentation. The soft interior of the bread will soak up the delicious flavors of the soup.
• With Crusty Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread or a slice of French baguette pairs beautifully with this creamy soup.
• Toppings: Add toppings like crispy bacon bits, sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions to give the soup extra texture and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Elegant Bowls: Serve the soup in rustic, ceramic bowls to create a homey, comforting feel.
• Swirl of Cream: Drizzle a swirl of heavy cream or sour cream on top for a visually appealing finish.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze-Friendly: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little extra broth to adjust the consistency.
• For Extra Flavor: Use a smoked ham or add a smoked ham bone to the broth while simmering the potatoes for an additional layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can. Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all the ingredients (except the cream and cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream and cheese at the end, and stir until well-combined.

Can I Use Leftover Ham?

Absolutely! Leftover ham works perfectly in this soup and is a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers.

How Do I Thicken Ham and Potato Soup?

If your soup isn’t thick enough, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

How Long Does Ham and Potato Soup Last in the Fridge?

The soup will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Ham and Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that is simple to make yet rich in flavor. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick weeknight meal or serving it at a family gathering, it’s a dish that is sure to please everyone. With creamy potatoes, savory ham, and a touch of herbs, this hearty soup will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try out this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, homemade bowl of warmth!

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