Honey Baked Ham Soup Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s made with ingredients that bring layers of flavor to every bite. One of those dishes that can truly elevate your soup game is Honey Baked Ham Soup. Whether you’ve got leftover honey-baked ham or you’re simply craving a savory, slightly sweet twist on a classic, this recipe is sure to deliver both warmth and satisfaction. What makes this soup so special is its balance of flavors-the sweetness of honey-baked ham mixed with savory vegetables, creamy broth, and a bit of seasoning. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.

So, if you’re looking for something simple yet unique to add to your soup repertoire, Honey Baked Ham Soup is a recipe that deserves a spot in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients, cooking method, and tips to make this dish your new go-to comfort food.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a Honey Baked Ham during the holidays or a family gathering, then you know just how delicious and versatile this ham can be. The sweetness from the glaze pairs beautifully with savory components, and when turned into a soup, it creates a perfect fusion of flavors. The best part? This recipe is as easy to make as it is comforting, and the ingredients are often ones you already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

Honey-Baked Ham – This is the star of the dish. Its sweet, smoky flavor adds depth and richness to the soup. About 2 cups of diced ham will work perfectly.
Vegetables – A combination of onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes are ideal for creating a hearty base. These veggies not only enhance the flavor but also provide great texture.
Garlic – Fresh garlic (about 3 cloves) adds a lovely savory kick that balances out the sweetness of the ham.
Chicken Broth – Use a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth as the base of your soup. It provides a rich, savory backdrop that allows the other flavors to shine.
Heavy Cream – For a creamy finish, heavy cream is added, giving the soup a luxurious, velvety texture. You can substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it up.
Thyme and Bay Leaves – These herbs add aromatic layers of flavor, infusing the soup with warmth and depth.
Salt and Pepper – For seasoning, adjust according to your taste, especially if your ham is on the saltier side.
Butter or Olive Oil – To sauté the vegetables and give the soup a rich base.
Flour – This is used for thickening the soup. A roux (flour and butter mixture) helps create that creamy texture that coats each bite.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ham: Dice about 2 cups of honey-baked ham into small cubes. If you’re working with leftover ham, make sure to trim off any excess fat for a cleaner texture.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat about 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions are translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
Create the Roux: Push the veggies to one side of the pot and add 2 tablespoons of flour to the empty space. Stir the flour for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to cook and thicken slightly, ensuring it doesn’t taste raw.
Add the Broth: Gradually add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Scrape up any bits of flavor stuck to the bottom of the pot. Once the broth is fully incorporated, bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer the Soup: Once the soup reaches a simmer, add the diced ham, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup cook for another 5-10 minutes, until it reaches your desired thickness.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Honey-Baked Ham: The key to this recipe’s unique flavor is the ham. Honey-baked ham is typically glazed with a combination of honey, sugar, and spices, giving it a wonderful balance of sweet and savory notes. As it cooks in the soup, the flavors melt into the broth, creating a deliciously fragrant base.
Potatoes: Potatoes help thicken the soup while providing a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients. Opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, which break down beautifully when cooked, giving the soup a richer consistency.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient turns an ordinary soup into a decadent dish. It smooths out the flavors and adds that silky mouthfeel that makes each spoonful so indulgent. However, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Broth: Choosing the right broth is essential. Chicken broth brings a savory backbone to the dish, but you could also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. Just keep in mind that the flavors of the ham will infuse the soup regardless of the broth choice.

Expert Tips

Use Leftover Ham: This soup is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham from holiday dinners. The honey-baked ham’s natural sweetness makes the soup stand out. If you don’t have leftovers, feel free to buy pre-cooked honey-baked ham from the store.
Thicken to Your Preference: If you like a thicker soup, let it simmer longer to break down the potatoes, or you can mash a portion of the potatoes before adding the cream. If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth or reduce the cooking time.
Balance the Sweetness: Since honey-baked ham is sweet, it’s important to balance it out with savory elements. A bit of salt, pepper, and fresh herbs can help cut through the sweetness. You can also add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When sautéing the vegetables, be sure not to overcrowd the pot. If needed, do it in batches to ensure they cook evenly and don’t steam.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add smoked tofu or tempeh for a similar texture. You can also use a vegetable broth base instead of chicken broth.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup. The spice will add an interesting contrast to the sweetness of the ham.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, for a more fragrant twist. You can even add a little dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, comforting depth.

Final Words

Honey Baked Ham Soup is the type of dish that feels like a personal invitation to slow down and savor every bite. It’s simple to make, yet packed with flavors that feel indulgent and satisfying. The combination of creamy broth, tender vegetables, and honey-baked ham creates a well-rounded soup that can easily stand as a meal on its own. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose leftovers into something new and delicious, cutting down on food waste while delivering a comforting bowl of goodness.

Honey Baked Ham Soup Recipe