Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially during colder months. This Creamy Ham Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a delicious combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and a velvety broth that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy lunch, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves rich, creamy soups and hearty flavors. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham or vegetables, making it a wonderful option for those who want to reduce food waste. The soup is filling enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. If you enjoy easy, one-pot meals that don’t compromise on flavor, this Creamy Ham Potato Soup is for you!

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Ham Potato Soup

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this soup so delicious:

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy base to the soup.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Provides a mild, sweet flavor.
• 1 cup carrot, peeled and diced: Brings a touch of sweetness and color.
• ½ cup diced celery: Adds depth and a slight crunch.
• 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced: The star of the soup, providing substance and creaminess.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped: Infuses the soup with a fragrant aroma.
• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, diced: Offers a savory, salty bite; feel free to add more if desired.
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the soup.
• 2 cups low sodium chicken stock or broth: Adds a robust, savory flavor.
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon: Enhances the soup’s overall taste.
• 3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk): Creates a creamy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Balances the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper (to taste): Adds a hint of spice.

this RECIPE

How to Prepare Creamy Ham Potato Soup: Step-by-Step

Sautéing the Vegetables: Creating the Base

1. Heat the Butter: Start by heating the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 4 minutes. This process releases the flavors and forms the base of your soup.

Incorporating the Ham and Potatoes

2. Add the Ham and Potatoes: Once the vegetables have softened, add the diced ham and potatoes to the pot. Cook them for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The ham will start to brown slightly, releasing its delicious, smoky flavor.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

Thickening the Soup: Achieving the Perfect Texture

4. Mix in the Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the ingredients in the pot and stir well to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the flour from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Add the Stock and Bouillon: Gradually pour in the chicken stock or broth while stirring to combine. Add the chicken bouillon, and stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil.
6. Cook Until Potatoes are Tender: Allow the soup to boil until the potatoes are just fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Add the Milk: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the milk. Continue stirring over the heat until the soup thickens, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it warm, garnished with additional cracked pepper or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Ham Potato Soup

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this soup, as they are starchy and break down nicely, creating a creamier texture.
• Cook Slowly for Depth of Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing step; allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld is crucial for a rich-tasting soup.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken stock or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

What to Avoid When Cooking Creamy Ham Potato Soup

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Make sure to check the potatoes frequently. Overcooking can cause them to become mushy.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so be vigilant when sautéing. Once you smell its fragrance, it’s ready.
• Using Salted Butter: This recipe calls for unsalted butter to better control the salt levels. Adding salted butter might make the soup overly salty, especially with the bouillon included.

Possible Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Alternative to Flour: Use cornstarch or potato starch if you’re looking for a gluten-free thickening agent.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Ham Potato Soup

• Pair with Bread: Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Top with Garnishes: Enhance the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese can also add flavor and visual appeal.
• Use Colorful Bowls: Present the soup in colorful bowls to make it more visually appealing, especially if serving guests.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Ham Potato Soup

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.

FAQs About Creamy Ham Potato Soup

• Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors may deepen and improve overnight.
• Can I use a different type of milk? Yes, you can use dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk, but it may slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
• How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin? If the soup is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water, then stir it into the soup and simmer until it thickens.

Wrap Up: Why You Should Make This Soup Today

This Creamy Ham Potato Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and ease of preparation make it a perfect addition to your recipe collection. It’s not only filling and delicious but also a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Try it out, and see why it’s destined to become a favorite in your home!

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