If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings, look no further than Cream of Ham and Potato Soup. This recipe combines creamy goodness with the heartiness of potatoes and the savory, slightly smoky flavor of ham. It’s a meal that comforts you from the first spoonful, with a rich and velvety texture that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
The beauty of this soup is that it’s incredibly easy to make, yet the flavors meld together so beautifully that it tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Whether you have leftover ham from a holiday dinner or you just want something satisfying and filling, this soup hits the spot every time.
Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful bowl of comfort, step by step, and break down all the little details you’ll need to ensure success in your kitchen.
Cream Of Ham And Potato Soup Recipe
This creamy soup is all about balance. You want the potatoes to break down just enough to thicken the broth, but still retain some texture. The ham should be tender and flavorful, without being too salty, while the cream base makes everything rich and smooth. Ready to get started? Here’s the full recipe.
Ingredients Needed
For the base of the soup, these ingredients are simple yet flavorful:
- Ham (about 2 cups, diced) – This is your main protein source. The smoky, salty flavor of the ham adds depth to the soup.
- Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized, diced) – Russet potatoes work best as they break down into a creamy texture, thickening the soup naturally.
- Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds a slight sweetness to balance the savory ham.
- Carrot (1 large, diced) – A touch of natural sweetness and color, contrasting the richness of the ham and cream.
- Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Brings a refreshing crunch and earthiness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances the savory flavor and adds a bit of aromatic depth.
- Chicken broth (4 cups) – Provides the liquid base for the soup.
- Heavy cream (1 cup) – For the rich, velvety texture.
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – To sauté the vegetables and add richness.
- Flour (1/4 cup) – To help thicken the soup and create a smooth consistency.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – A little freshness to finish the dish and brighten the presentation.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by washing and dicing your potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic as well.
- Cut the ham into bite-sized cubes.
- This prep stage is essential for getting everything into the pot quickly without scrambling.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and become fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Make The Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables in the pot and stir to combine, making sure the flour is well incorporated. This is your roux, and it will help thicken the soup.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
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Add The Broth
- Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the diced potatoes and ham.
- Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Finish The Soup
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it reaches a creamy, thick consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add more if necessary!
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Garnish And Serve
- If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
- Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in developing the flavor profile and texture of the soup. Here’s a deeper look at the key players:
- Ham: The type of ham you use can greatly affect the flavor. If you’re using leftover ham, the smoky undertones will infuse the soup, but if you’re using a deli ham, you may need to add a bit of extra seasoning to balance it out.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are a great choice for soups because they break down easily and thicken the broth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which hold their shape better after cooking.
- Heavy Cream: This is the secret to making the soup feel indulgent and luxurious. It gives the soup its creamy consistency and adds a richness that complements the vegetables and ham.
- Chicken Broth: The base of the soup. You could use vegetable broth if you prefer, but chicken broth provides a deeper, fuller flavor that pairs well with the ham.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip the Roux: The flour and butter mixture (roux) is what will help thicken your soup. If you want a thicker soup, feel free to add a bit more flour and cook it for a bit longer before adding the broth.
- Use Leftover Ham: If you have leftover ham from a holiday or a roast, this is the perfect way to use it up. It adds even more flavor and cuts down on your prep time.
- Simmer for Flavor: While you don’t want to overcook the vegetables, allowing the soup to simmer gently allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Consistency Control: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup, giving it a creamier texture without making it entirely smooth.
Recipe Variations
While the classic ham and potato combo is already fantastic, here are a few variations to mix things up:
- Add Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist. You can even top the soup with a little more cheese and let it melt into the hot broth.
- Spicy Ham and Potato Soup: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. The spice will add a nice contrast to the creamy base.
- Vegetarian Option: Leave out the ham and add extra vegetables, like leeks, corn, or peas, for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Bacon: If you’re not a fan of ham or just want to add extra flavor, crispy bacon crumbles make a great addition to the soup.
Final Words
This Cream of Ham and Potato Soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s creamy, hearty, and absolutely delicious. The combination of savory ham, tender potatoes, and a rich, velvety broth will fill you up and keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s super versatile. You can adjust the ingredients and seasoning to fit your personal taste or even use it as a base to explore different flavor combinations.