Name: Ham And Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil; 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 ribs of celery, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 pounds russet or gold potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 900 grams); 2 cups cooked ham, chopped or shredded; 1 ham bone; ¼ cup melted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1½ cups milk (any kind); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Shredded cheese and green onions for topping (as desired); Potatoes: Use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture.; Ham Bone: If you don’t have a ham bone, you can skip it, but it adds depth to the flavor.; Cheese: Swap cheddar for Swiss or Gruyère for a different taste.; Milk: Use heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer soup.

Nothing beats a warm bowl of Ham and Potato Soup on a chilly day. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Made with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a cozy meal for friends, this recipe will impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious soup at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Cold Weather Comfort

This Ham and Potato Soup is ideal for cold weather when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The combination of creamy potatoes, flavorful ham, and a blend of aromatic herbs creates a soothing dish that warms you from the inside out.

Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep work, you can whip up a delicious pot of soup in no time. This recipe uses common ingredients like potatoes, carrots, celery, and ham – all of which are easy to find and affordable.

Ingredients Needed for Ham and Potato Soup

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon oil
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 ribs of celery, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 pounds russet or gold potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 900 grams)
2 cups cooked ham, chopped or shredded
1 ham bone
¼ cup melted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk (any kind)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded cheese and green onions for topping (as desired)

Substitutions and Variations

Potatoes: Use Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
Ham Bone: If you don’t have a ham bone, you can skip it, but it adds depth to the flavor.
Cheese: Swap cheddar for Swiss or Gruyère for a different taste.
Milk: Use heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer soup.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make this Ham and Potato Soup, you will need the following kitchen tools:

Large soup pot
Wooden spoon
Medium bowl or large glass measuring cup
Whisk
Spatula
Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. This step helps to release the flavors of the vegetables and create a delicious base for the soup.

2. Add the Broth, Ham, and Potatoes

Add the salt, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, and black pepper to the pot, and cook for another minute to let the spices bloom. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped ham, ham bone, and peeled and chopped potatoes. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot – these add extra flavor!

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

3. Thicken the Milk

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the thickened milk. In a medium bowl or large glass measuring cup, whisk together the melted butter and flour until smooth. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring all the flour is well incorporated.

Place the mixture in the microwave and heat in 45-60 second intervals, whisking well after each interval. Continue microwaving and whisking until the milk has thickened considerably. Be sure to watch closely as it will bubble up.

4. Combine Everything and Finish Cooking

Once the potatoes are tender, remove the ham bone from the pot and pull off any remaining meat to stir back into the soup. Gradually stir in the thickened milk mixture and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt and blend smoothly into the broth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Top with additional shredded cheese and green onions if desired.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Soup

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup because they break down nicely and add a creamy texture.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the potatoes while simmering. Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy and lose their texture.

How to Make the Soup Creamier

For an extra creamy soup, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream at the end. You can also use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup to make it thicker.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Potatoes

Cooking the potatoes too long can cause them to disintegrate, resulting in a mushy texture. Keep them tender, not overcooked.

Using High Heat

Avoid cooking the soup over high heat once it has come to a simmer. Keeping it at medium-low ensures even cooking and prevents scorching.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Creative Garnishes and Toppings

Top your Ham and Potato Soup with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, or fresh green onions for added flavor and texture. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a unique touch.

Pairing Suggestions (Non-Alcoholic)

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad to balance the richness. A glass of iced tea or apple cider complements the flavors perfectly.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Best Practices for Storage

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat for Best Results

To reheat, pour the soup into a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Freeze Ham and Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

What Can I Substitute for Ham?

If you don’t have ham, you can use cooked bacon, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor. You can also make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth.

Conclusion

Enjoy the comforting flavors of this Ham and Potato Soup and make it your go-to recipe for cozy nights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to please. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!