This hearty Ham & Potato Soup is perfect for cozy nights. It’s filled with tender potatoes, tasty ham, and a creamy broth that warms you from the inside out.
Making this soup feels like a big hug in a bowl! I love adding some crunchy bread on the side for dipping. Just imagine the deliciousness! 😋
What I appreciate most is how quick it comes together. Just chop, simmer, and enjoy a comforting meal with family or friends. So easy and so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess. If you prefer a healthier option, sweet potatoes can be a nice alternative!
Ham: Using leftover ham is fantastic for this soup. If you’re vegetarian, swap in diced mushrooms or a plant-based ham substitute. You’ll still get great flavor!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice punch. If you want a milder taste, use Monterey Jack instead. Vegan cheese is also a solid substitute for a dairy-free option.
Milk: Half-and-half makes the soup extra creamy, but you can use low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk if you’re looking to cut calories.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy Without Curdling?
To avoid curdling when adding dairy, lower the heat after the soup simmers. Here are steps to follow:
- Once your ham is added, keep the heat low before pouring in the milk or half-and-half.
- Stir gently as you add the cream, letting it warm through without boiling.
- Remember, slow and steady wins—this helps to keep the soup smooth and creamy!
Ham & Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ham & Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. So, you can have a hearty meal on the table in just 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This brings out the onion’s natural sweetness!
2. Add Garlic and Flour:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for another minute until you can smell its aroma. Then, stir in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes. This is called making a roux, and it helps thicken your soup while avoiding lumps!
3. Combine Broth and Potatoes:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until it’s smooth. Once that’s done, add the diced potatoes and give it a good stir.
4. Simmer Away:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook until the potatoes are tender—this should take about 15-20 minutes.
5. Add the Ham:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the diced ham to the pot. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, which warms the ham through.
6. Stir in Milk:
Lower the heat a bit and gently stir in the milk or half-and-half. It’s important to keep the heat low here to prevent curdling!
7. Cheese it Up:
Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and your soup is nice and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs to taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Ham & Potato Soup hot, garnished with extra cheese and fresh chives on top. It’s perfect enjoyed with crusty bread or crunchy crackers!
Bon appétit! Enjoy every warm, comforting bite! 😊
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This soup is a great way to use up leftover ham. Just make sure it’s diced into small pieces for even heating. If you don’t have leftover ham, a store-bought ham steak works well too!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Broth?
Yes! You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version, or even water with added seasoning if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly with different broth options.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze Ham & Potato Soup?
You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months! However, the texture may change after thawing, especially if you’ve added milk or cheese. To freeze, let it cool completely and then pack it into freezer-safe containers.
