There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly evening. Just picture the steam rising as you scoop into this creamy Ham Potato Soup, crafted without heavy cream, yet bursting with flavor. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a particularly brisk autumn weekend when all I craved was something comforting but still light. With its tender potatoes, smoky ham, and fragrant garlic, this dish encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness.
What sets this recipe apart is how effortlessly it comes together in under 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Imagine gathering your loved ones around the table, sharing stories while savoring every spoonful of this velvety soup. Whether you’re rediscovering the joy of cooking at home or looking for a way to elevate your meal prep, this Ham Potato Soup promises to be an instant favorite! So, let’s dive into the comforting flavors that will warm both your belly and your heart!
Why You’ll Love This Ham Potato Soup
Comfort food made easy: This creamy Ham Potato Soup is pure bliss without heavy cream, proving that cooking at home can be simple and fulfilling.
Rich flavors: Combining smoky ham and aromatic garlic gives each bowl a delightful taste that is hard to resist, reminding you of cherished family meals.
Quick preparation: With a cooking time of just under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to add seasonal veggies or swap ham for turkey to suit your taste and what’s in your pantry. For a refreshing side, serve it alongside Potato Salad BBQ.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table!
Ham Potato Soup Ingredients
• Get ready for a delightful blend of flavors!
For the Soup Base:
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and helps sauté vegetables; consider olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Onion – Adds aromatic depth and sweetness; finely chop for better texture.
- Carrot – Brings sweetness and color to the soup; use large carrots, peeled and diced.
- Celery – Contributes a subtle earthy flavor and crunch; diced finely to blend well with textures.
- Potatoes – Acts as the hearty base, giving body to the soup; Yukon Gold recommended for creaminess, but Russet or red potatoes work too.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor with a bold, aromatic profile; freshly minced yields the best results.
For Flavor and Texture:
- Cooked Ham – Provides smokiness and protein; use leftover ham or diced ham steak, adding more to taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup and creates a creamy consistency; can substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.
- Low Sodium Chicken Stock – Forms the flavorful liquid base; homemade ham broth or vegetable stock can be used for a lighter version.
- Chicken Bouillon – Adds extra flavor to enhance the broth; optional seasoning based on preference.
- Milk (Whole or 2%) – Creates a creamy texture while keeping it light; dairy-free milk options also work well.
- Salt and Cracked Pepper – Season the soup to taste; check seasoning since the ham may add saltiness.
This comforting ham potato soup is just waiting to warm you up!
How to Make Ham Potato Soup
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat unsalted butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Add Ham & Potatoes: Stir in diced cooked ham and cubed potatoes, cooking everything together for an additional 2 minutes. Then, add freshly minced garlic and sauté until it becomes aromatic, about 1 minute.
- Make Roux: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the vegetable mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken your soup.
- Combine Liquids: Gradually pour in low sodium chicken stock and add chicken bouillon. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are just fork-tender, which should take around 10-12 minutes.
- Incorporate Milk: Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the milk and allow the soup to simmer until it thickens, absorbing the lovely flavors, about 5 minutes.
- Season & Serve: Taste your delicious soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and cracked pepper as needed. Serve warm, allowing everyone to experience the comforting hug in a bowl.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Ham Potato Soup
- Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: This ham potato soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
- Cooling Tips: Always cool the soup completely before refrigerating or freezing to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the best flavor.
What to Serve with Ham Potato Soup?
To complement the comforting richness of this hearty soup, consider side dishes that add freshness and balance.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crunchy exterior and soft interior enhance the soup’s creamy texture.
- Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls slathered in garlic butter will elevate your meal and soak up every delicious drop.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate with each bite.
- Steamed Broccoli: The slight crunch and vibrant color of steamed broccoli add both nutrition and a delightful contrast to the soup.
- Savory Cornbread: A slice of cornbread offers a sweet bite, balancing the smoky flavors of the ham and enhancing the comfort food vibe.
- Homemade Pickles: Their tanginess adds a zesty contrast that brightens each spoonful of the rich ham potato soup.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, the sweetness of apple crisp pairs wonderfully with the savory soup, creating a comforting end to your meal.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade provide a cooling contrast to the warm, hearty soup experience.
Ham Potato Soup Variations
Customize this creamy Ham Potato Soup to suit your taste preferences and pantry delights!
- Turkey Swap: Replace ham with cooked turkey or chicken for a lighter, after-holiday twist that’s just as satisfying.
- Seasonal Veggies: Stir in peas, corn, or spinach to add color and nutrition, making it a more vibrant dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a delightful heat that warms the soul.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk along with a dairy-free butter substitute for a delicious vegan version.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor and provide aromatic notes that perfectly complement the soup.
- Prepped Potatoes: For quicker prep, consider using pre-diced frozen potatoes, making your cooking even more effortless.
- Creative Thickeners: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free cornstarch for those with dietary restrictions while still achieving that creamy texture.
- Golden Roots: Incorporate sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor and a pop of vibrant color.
Feel free to mix and match these variations; your unique recipe awaits!
Expert Tips for Ham Potato Soup
- Keep It Creamy: To maintain a creamy texture without curdling, always lower the heat before adding milk. Stir gently for a smooth finish.
- Enhance Flavor: For a deeper taste, consider simmering your soup with leftover ham bones or using homemade broth—it’s well worth the effort!
- Consistency Control: If your ham potato soup thickens too much, gradually add more milk to reach the desired creamy consistency.
- Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to add in seasonal veggies like spinach or corn. They contribute both flavor and nutrition to this comforting dish.
- Storage Savvy: This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully, making it great for meal prep or busy nights.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Ham Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can chop your vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, and potatoes) and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy weeknights. The cooked ham can also be diced and stored together with the veggies. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply heat a pot, sauté the prepped vegetables in butter, and follow the remaining steps as directed. For the best flavor, retain the creamy consistency by adding the milk just before serving. With these prep-ahead tips, you can have homemade comfort food ready for your family in no time!
Ham Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Ham Potato Soup?
For the best creamy texture, I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes. They yield a delightful velvety finish. However, Russet or red potatoes can also be good substitutes. Just be sure to cut them into uniform cubes for even cooking.
How should I store leftover Ham Potato Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I freeze Ham Potato Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When reheating, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture.
How do I adjust the soup if it becomes too thick?
If your Ham Potato Soup thickens more than you prefer, don’t fret! Simply add more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine, and it’ll return to that luscious, creamy state we all love.
Is this Ham Potato Soup suitable for dietary restrictions?
This recipe is quite versatile! You can make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with cornstarch. For dairy-free options, feel free to use almond milk or any plant-based milk. Always be cautious about ham choices if you’re accommodating allergies, as some processed hams may contain allergens.
How do I know when my potatoes are perfectly cooked in the soup?
You’ll want to look for fork-tender potatoes, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes of boiling. They should pierce easily with a fork but not be mushy. Don’t hesitate to check by tasting a cube—it should be soft yet still hold its shape!
Comforting Ham and Potato Soup: Easy and Creamy Delight
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Or olive oil for dairy-free option.
- 1 medium Onion Finely chopped.
- 1 large Carrot Peeled and diced.
- 2 stalks Celery Diced finely.
- 4 cups Potatoes Yukon Gold recommended, cubed.
- 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced.
For Flavor and Texture
- 2 cups Cooked Ham Diced, leftovers or ham steak.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.
- 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Stock Or homemade broth.
- 1 cube Chicken Bouillon Optional.
- 1 cup Milk Whole or 2%, or dairy-free options.
- to taste Salt Check seasoning due to ham.
- to taste Cracked Pepper
Instructions
- Heat unsalted butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in diced cooked ham and cubed potatoes, cooking everything together for an additional 2 minutes. Then, add freshly minced garlic and sauté until it becomes aromatic, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the vegetable mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in low sodium chicken stock and add chicken bouillon. Increase the heat and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are just fork-tender, around 10-12 minutes.
- Once the potatoes are tender, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the milk and allow the soup to simmer until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and cracked pepper as needed. Serve warm.
Notes
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