There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of Ham and Potato Soup. Picture yourself nestled in your favorite chair, with the rich aroma dancing through the air, wrapping you in warmth like a well-loved blanket. The creamy texture mingles beautifully with tender bits of ham and hearty potatoes, creating a flavor explosion that sings to your taste buds.
I remember the first time I made this delightful dish. It was one of those chilly evenings where even the soup seemed to shiver. My friends gathered around, their faces lighting up as they took their first spoonfuls. The smiles were contagious, and I knew I had struck gold with this recipe. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or to impress guests at dinner parties. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ham and Potato Soup is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors creates a rich, creamy delight that warms your soul
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing in any bowl, and it’s versatile enough to use leftover ham or any vegetables on hand
I once served this Ham and Potato Soup at a potluck, and let’s just say my friends were fighting over the last spoonful!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ham: Use leftover holiday ham or any smoked variety for a rich flavor that enhances the soup.
Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes; they add creaminess and hold their shape well.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; make sure to chop finely for even cooking.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring color and natural sweetness; slice them thinly for quick cooking.
Celery: Celery adds crunch; use fresh stalks for the best texture.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with aromatic depth; fresh is best!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your soup.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a luscious texture; substitute with half-and-half if you prefer something lighter.
Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs add complexity; fresh thyme brings out the best flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ham and Potato Soup
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop ham into bite-sized pieces, dice potatoes into cubes, and slice onions, carrots, and celery.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots and celery next. Cook them down until slightly softened while stirring occasionally—about 5 minutes will do.
Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour in chicken broth along with cubed potatoes. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Add Ham and Cream: Stir in chopped ham along with heavy cream or half-and-half. Let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes allowing flavors to meld together.
Add Seasoning: Finally, season with thyme leaves, bay leaves, salt, and pepper according to taste before serving hot! Enjoy garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
And there you have it—a simple yet delightful journey into crafting Ham and Potato Soup that warms both heart and belly! Nothing beats a comforting bowl of goodness on chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. So go ahead—gather your ingredients and whip up this masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- Ham and potato soup is a cozy classic, perfect for chilly nights
- The creamy texture and savory aroma make it an ultimate comfort food that warms the heart
- Customize it with your favorite veggies to suit your taste and make it truly yours!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onion and garlic until fragrant; then add diced potatoes and ham for even cooking. Pour in broth, simmer until tender, and finish with cream.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding kale or carrots for extra nutrition. A dash of smoked paprika or fresh herbs can elevate the flavors beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use leftover ham for maximum flavor; it’s a great way to reduce waste
- Consider blending half the soup for a creamier texture while leaving chunks for substance
- Experiment with different potatoes for varied flavors and textures!
When I first made ham and potato soup, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was! Their compliments made me realize how simple ingredients can create unforgettable moments.
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of ham?
Yes, turkey or chicken works well in this comforting soup recipe.
How can I thicken the soup?
Blend part of the soup or add a cornstarch slurry for added thickness.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just freeze in portions, ensuring it cools completely before storing.
Ham and Potato Soup
Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy, savory soup features tender ham and hearty potatoes, all simmered to perfection in a rich broth. With its delightful aroma and satisfying texture, it’s sure to warm your heart and soul. Whether you’re cozying up at home or entertaining guests, this dish is a delicious way to bring people together. Get ready for a flavor-packed experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced leftover ham
- 4 cups Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the ham, cubing the potatoes, and slicing the onions, carrots, and celery.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the carrots and celery; cook until slightly softened (about 5 minutes).
- Pour in chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in chopped ham and cream; let simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Season with thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider adding kale or spinach. To enhance flavors, sprinkle smoked paprika or fresh herbs before serving. Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
