Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s chilly outside or you’re craving a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Ham and Potato Soup is one of those dishes that delivers exactly what you want-rich, creamy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with a savory aroma as it simmers away, slowly turning into a masterpiece of flavors.

The beauty of Ham and Potato Soup lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a bowl of soup that’s packed with flavor, texture, and plenty of nutritional goodness. It’s a dish that is easy to make, adaptable to your tastes, and incredibly filling. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this soup never disappoints.

Let’s dive into the recipe and everything you need to know to make the perfect Ham and Potato Soup!

Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

This Ham and Potato Soup is incredibly easy to make and delivers big flavor without a lot of fuss. The combination of tender potatoes, salty ham, and a creamy broth creates a deliciously rich soup that feels like home. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can replicate this comfort food masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

Before you start cooking, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s the complete list:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For sautéing and adding that rich, buttery flavor to the base.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Onion provides the foundation of flavor and adds a slight sweetness when cooked.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings in an aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with the potatoes and ham.
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth) – This will form the base of your soup, bringing in a savory foundation. You can also use ham broth for an extra flavor boost if you have it!
• 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced – The potatoes are the heart of this soup. Russets break down slightly, giving the soup its creamy texture.
• 2 cups cooked ham, cubed – This adds a salty, smoky richness. If you’ve got leftover ham from a holiday meal, this soup is a perfect way to repurpose it.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For that creamy, velvety finish that makes each spoonful so satisfying.
• Salt and pepper – Seasoning is key! A little salt enhances all the flavors, while the pepper adds just the right amount of bite.
• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh herbs not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh, slightly herbal contrast to the rich soup.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s walk through how to make this Ham and Potato Soup. The process is straightforward, but the result is a bowl of creamy, comforting soup that will make everyone ask for seconds!

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.

2. Cook The Potatoes

   • Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
   • Pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, ensuring the potatoes are covered.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

3. Add The Ham And Cream

   • Once the potatoes are cooked through, add the cubed ham to the pot and stir it in.
   • Pour in the heavy cream, and stir until everything is well combined.
   • Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

4. Season The Soup

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
   • If you like your soup a bit thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes with a spoon or potato masher to create a creamier texture.

5. Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
   • Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what each one brings to the table:

• Potatoes: The humble potato is the perfect vehicle for absorbing all the delicious flavors in this soup. As they cook, they release starch, which helps thicken the soup and create a creamy consistency. Russet potatoes are the go-to choice because of their high starch content, but you could also use Yukon Golds for a slightly buttery flavor.
• Ham: The ham adds a savory depth that complements the creamy potatoes. If you use leftover ham from a holiday meal, the slightly smoky flavors of the ham will shine through. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought ham steak or even diced deli ham.
• Cream: The addition of heavy cream gives the soup its smooth, velvety texture. It helps balance the saltiness of the ham and makes every spoonful feel indulgent. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap it out for half-and-half or milk, but the richness won’t be quite the same.
• Broth: Chicken broth is the most common choice for this soup because it’s flavorful and complements the ham perfectly. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even ham broth if you have it on hand from cooking a ham.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead: Soup often tastes better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. If you’re meal prepping, you can store this soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher. For an even creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot.
• Add more veggies: If you want to add more vegetables, try throwing in some carrots, celery, or leeks at the beginning with the onions. These will give the soup more complexity and nutrition without changing the overall flavor profile.
• Top it off: For a little extra flavor, you can top your soup with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream. These additions bring extra richness and a delightful texture contrast.

Recipe Variations

As much as this Ham and Potato Soup is perfect on its own, there’s plenty of room for customization. Here are a few variations to make it your own:

• Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup: Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese towards the end of cooking for a cheesy, creamy version that will have everyone asking for more.
• Spicy Ham and Potato Soup: If you like a little kick, throw in a dash of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Loaded Ham and Potato Soup: Take it over the top by adding crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream on top when serving for a “loaded” experience.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham entirely and replace it with sautéed mushrooms for a savory, meaty-like bite. You can also add beans or tofu for some protein.

Final Words

Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re using leftover ham or cooking from scratch, the result is a creamy, hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great dish to feed a crowd, as it’s both affordable and filling.