The Ultimate Cozy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe for Winter Warmth

Nestled in comfort, this hearty ham and potato soup recipe promises warmth with every spoonful.

Creamy potatoes blend seamlessly with savory chunks of smoky ham.

Fragrant herbs dance through the rich broth, creating a symphony of flavors.

Memories of cozy kitchen moments flood back as you ladle this soul-satisfying soup into bowls.

Cold evenings suddenly feel more inviting with this classic dish.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly to craft a meal that hugs you from the inside.

Prepare to fall in love with a soup that feels like a culinary embrace.

Why Ham and Potato Soup Is a Hearty Favorite

• Comfort Food Champion: Dive into a bowl of pure warmth that hugs your soul with hearty ham and tender potatoes, perfect for chasing away any chill.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Prepare this satisfying soup in just a few simple steps, making it ideal for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated techniques.
• Budget-Friendly Feast: Transform everyday ingredients like leftover ham and pantry staples into a rich, filling soup that stretches your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and savory taste, making this a go-to recipe for pleasing multiple generations around the dinner table.

Ingredients for Ham and Potato Soup

• Ham: A savory protein that adds rich flavor and hearty texture to the soup.
• Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that provide a creamy base and filling substance to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid that forms the foundational liquid for the soup.

• Onions: Adds a sweet and depth of flavor to the soup's overall taste profile.
• Garlic: Provides a robust and pungent undertone that enhances the other ingredients.

• Butter: Helps to sauté the aromatics and adds a rich, smooth texture.
• Flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give the soup a more substantial consistency.
• Milk or Cream: Introduces a creamy and smooth element to the soup.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor of the soup.

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup

Step 1: Warm Up the Butter and Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring gently until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their delightful aroma throughout the kitchen.

Step 2: Introduce Potatoes and Ham

Toss in diced potatoes and chopped ham pieces. Stir and cook for a few minutes, allowing the ingredients to start blending their flavors and creating a delicious base for the soup.

Step 3: Create a Thickening Base

Sprinkle flour over the potato and ham mixture, carefully stirring to coat each piece evenly. This will help thicken the soup and create a smooth, creamy texture.

Step 4: Pour and Bring to a Boil

Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and beginning to merge.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer gently. Let it cook until the potatoes become tender and soft, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Creamy Richness

Gently stir in milk or cream, creating a luxurious and velvety consistency. Warm the soup through, but be careful not to let it boil, which could cause the dairy to separate.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle the hot, comforting soup into bowls and serve immediately, enjoying the rich, hearty flavors.

Tips for Creamy and Filling Ham Soup

• Dice potatoes uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
• Use leftover holiday ham or purchase pre-cooked ham to save time and reduce kitchen prep.
• Select starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a creamier, thicker soup consistency.
• Lower heat when adding milk or cream to prevent curdling and maintain smooth texture.
• Enhance flavor by garnishing with fresh chives, crispy bacon bits, or shredded cheese before serving.

Flavor Variations for Ham and Potato Soup

• Vegetarian Potato Soup: Replace ham with smoked tofu or tempeh, using vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Soup: Swap potatoes with cauliflower florets, maintaining the creamy texture with heavy cream.
• Spicy Southwestern Soup: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening, ensuring the soup remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

• Hearty Family Dinner: Serve this soup as a comforting main course with crusty bread for soaking up every delicious spoonful. The warm, creamy texture makes it perfect for chilly evenings when everyone craves something filling.
• Lunch Companion: Pack in a thermos for a satisfying midday meal at work or school. The rich blend of ham and potatoes provides excellent protein and energy to power through the day.
• Cozy Gathering Centerpiece: Present in rustic ceramic bowls during weekend get-togethers. Garnish with fresh chives or crispy bacon bits to add extra flavor and visual appeal that will impress guests.
• Winter Wellness Boost: Offer as a nourishing meal when someone feels under the weather. The combination of vegetables, protein, and warm broth helps provide comfort and nutrients during cold season.

Best Way to Store Ham and Potato Soup

• Store leftover ham and potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the soup completely before transferring to storage containers to prevent bacterial growth.
• Use shallow containers to help the soup cool faster and ensure even refrigeration.
• Avoid freezing this soup as dairy-based soups tend to separate and lose their creamy texture when thawed.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of meat instead of ham?

Yes, you can substitute ham with bacon, chicken, or even turkey for a different flavor profile.

• Is this soup gluten-free?

Not in its original form. To make it gluten-free, replace regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

• How can I make the soup thicker?

Add more flour or let it simmer longer to reduce and naturally thicken the soup. You can also mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in.

• Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting ham and potato soup embodies hearty midwestern cuisine with rich, creamy flavors. Simple ingredients combine for a satisfying meal you’ll crave during chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups ham, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk or cream

Seasoning and Thickening Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat, gently sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
2. Add cubed ham and diced potatoes to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld for 2-3 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture, carefully coating the ham and potatoes while stirring to create a light roux and prevent lumps.
4. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to integrate the liquid smoothly with the flour-coated ingredients.
5. Increase heat to high and bring the soup to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer.
6. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes become fork-tender and soft.
7. Pour in milk or cream, stirring gently to incorporate without causing the liquid to separate or curdle.
8. Warm the soup through on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring it remains just below boiling point.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
10. Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and serve immediately for optimal flavor and temperature.

Notes

• Swap regular milk with lactose-free or plant-based alternatives for dairy-sensitive individuals.
• Dice ham into smaller pieces for more even distribution and better texture throughout the soup.
• Add a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese on top for extra richness and depth of flavor.
• Enhance nutritional value by including chopped carrots or celery during the initial sautéing stage for added vegetables.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg