Ham and Potato Soup Recipe: A Warm, Hearty Bowl of Comfort
If you're searching for the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this Ham and Potato Soup recipe is just what you need. Packed with hearty ingredients like tender potatoes, savory ham, and a flavorful broth, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. In this article, we'll take you step-by-step through the process of making the best Ham and Potato Soup, offering tips, substitutions, and serving ideas along the way. So, let's get cooking and discover how to make this comforting bowl of goodness!

What is Ham and Potato Soup?
Ham and Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that combines tender potatoes, diced ham, and other savory ingredients in a creamy broth. It's a versatile dish that you can easily adjust to fit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Ham and Potato Soup delivers on both flavor and satisfaction. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover ham!
Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup
To make this delicious Ham and Potato Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of diced potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
- 2 cups of cooked, diced ham: Leftover ham from a holiday dinner works perfectly here. You can also use store-bought ham or ham steaks.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and flavor to the soup.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the savory flavor of the soup.
- 4 cups of chicken broth: Provides the base for the soup. You can substitute with vegetable broth if preferred.
- 1 cup of heavy cream: For a creamy, rich texture.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: Adds richness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons of flour: Used to thicken the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- ½ teaspoon of thyme (optional): Adds a subtle herb flavor to complement the ham and potatoes.
- ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For added creaminess and flavor, especially if you enjoy cheesy soups.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about Ham and Potato Soup is its versatility. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
- Substitute heavy cream with milk: If you're looking for a lighter version, you can use whole milk or even half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will reduce the richness but still give the soup a creamy texture.
- Vegetarian version: If you prefer a meatless version, you can substitute the ham with vegetarian "ham" or omit it entirely. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Add more vegetables: For a heartier soup, consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn. They add texture and additional nutrients.
- Use sweet potatoes: Want to switch things up? Replace the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or Gruyère for a cheesy potato soup.
- Add bacon: If you're a bacon lover, you can add crispy, crumbled bacon on top for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and possible variations ready, it's time to get started. Follow these simple steps to make your Ham and Potato Soup from scratch:
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by washing, peeling, and dicing the potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice the ham into cubes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing them until they become soft and translucent (about 3-5 minutes). The aroma of garlic and onions is the perfect way to start building flavor for your soup.
- Make the Roux: Once the onions and garlic are sautéed, sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken the soup. Be sure to cook the flour to eliminate any raw taste.
- Add Broth and Potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Add the Ham and Cream: Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme if using.
- Blend the Soup (Optional): For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer about half of the soup to a blender and pulse until smooth. Mix the blended portion back into the pot for a rich, velvety consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. If you'd like, stir in some shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, bacon bits, or additional cheese.
How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice potatoes and ham, chop onions, and mince garlic.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Create the Roux: Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Liquid and Simmer: Add chicken broth and potatoes, then simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate Ham and Cream: Stir in ham and cream, simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
- Optional Blending: Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture if desired.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not cooking the flour properly: When making the roux, be sure to cook the flour for at least a minute or two. This prevents a raw, floury taste in your soup.
- Undercooking the potatoes: Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before serving. Nothing ruins a soup like crunchy potatoes!
- Over-blending the soup: If you choose to blend the soup, only blend a portion of it to keep some texture. Over-blending can result in a mushy, overly smooth soup.
- Skipping the seasoning: Potatoes and ham can be bland without the proper seasoning. Be sure to taste the soup and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve and present your Ham and Potato Soup can elevate it from a simple meal to a restaurant-worthy dish. Here are some ideas for serving and presentation:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley, chives, or green onions on top of the soup adds color and freshness.
- Add crunchy toppings: Crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or crispy croutons make great toppings that add texture.
- Serve with bread: A warm, crusty bread or garlic bread on the side is perfect for dipping into the soup.
How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup
Ham and Potato Soup is best served piping hot in a bowl. For an extra touch of elegance, serve it in a rustic bread bowl. Pair it with a simple salad, fresh bread, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup
- Bread Bowls: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the soup inside. It looks impressive and doubles as a delicious side.
- Rustic Stoneware: Serve your soup in rustic ceramic bowls for a cozy, homey feel.
- Toppings Bar: Create a toppings bar with bacon bits, cheese, green onions, and croutons, allowing guests to customize their bowls.
Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make it Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully, so it's perfect for making ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Double the Recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled to serve a crowd or for meal prep purposes.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze Ham and Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Ham and Potato Soup. Just be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating. To avoid this, you can undercook the potatoes before freezing and finish cooking them when reheating.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I use instant potatoes?
While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use instant potatoes in a pinch. Just adjust the liquid accordingly.
How long does Ham and Potato Soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, Ham and Potato Soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Ham and Potato Soup is a cozy, satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and customizable variations, it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or just because you crave comfort food, this Ham and Potato Soup recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Give it a try today and enjoy a delicious bowl of warmth!
PrintHam And Potato Soup Recipe
This Ham and Potato Soup recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish made with tender ham, creamy potatoes, and vegetables, all simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, this soup is both hearty and easy to prepare. The key ingredients include diced ham, potatoes, and onions, making it a satisfying meal with minimal prep time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 ½ cups ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: shredded cheese, green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in milk, diced ham, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with optional garnishes.
Notes
- For a creamier soup, blend half the soup and return it to the pot.
- Can be made ahead of time and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
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