Ham And Potato Soup Easy Pioneer Woman Recipe

Nothing beats a hearty bowl of soup on a chilly day, and if you’re looking for a comfort food recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious, Ham and Potato Soup is a winner every time. Inspired by the flavors and rustic charm of The Pioneer Woman, this recipe combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy broth into a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a weeknight treat, this soup is as satisfying as it gets.

Ham And Potato Soup Easy Pioneer Woman Recipe

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s not only quick to prepare but also uses ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. The Pioneer Woman’s recipe captures the essence of comfort with its rich flavors, and the best part is that it can be customized to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this warm and filling soup:

• Ham: About 2 cups, diced. Leftover ham works great for this recipe, which is perfect if you’ve got some holiday ham lying around.
• Potatoes: 4 medium-sized, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes. You can use Yukon Gold, Russet, or any potato variety that holds up well in soups.
• Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped. This adds a savory base flavor to the soup.
• Carrot: 1 large carrot, peeled and diced. Carrots add a slight sweetness that balances the richness of the ham and the creaminess of the soup.
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped. Celery contributes a nice crunch and an aromatic base.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Garlic is a must to bring out that delicious savory depth.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: About 4 cups. The broth is the foundation of the soup’s flavor.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. This makes the soup luxuriously creamy, giving it a velvety texture.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. Butter helps sauté the veggies and adds richness to the soup.
• Flour: 2 tablespoons. Used to create a roux for thickening the soup.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley or Chives: Chopped for garnish. Adds a fresh, bright note when sprinkled on top right before serving.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to make this creamy, comforting soup:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using leftover ham, cut it into small cubes. It helps if the veggies are all about the same size to ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent. Then, add in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir well to coat everything. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. This creates a roux that will help thicken the soup later.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring everything to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the Ham: Once the potatoes are soft, add in the diced ham and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the ham through.
6. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and serve hot. It’s even better when paired with a slice of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich!

Ingredient Insights

• Ham: Using leftover ham is not only cost-effective but also a great way to repurpose what you already have. If you don’t have ham, you can swap it with cooked chicken, bacon, or even sausage for a different flavor.
• Potatoes: Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for their creaminess. If you prefer a bit of texture, use Russet potatoes, which tend to break down and thicken the soup more.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is what makes this soup so rich and comforting. You could substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but the flavor and texture won’t be quite as indulgent.
• Broth: The type of broth you choose will influence the overall taste. Chicken broth has a mild flavor, while vegetable broth will bring a slightly earthier base. You can also use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.

Expert Tips

• For a Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot once they are tender, or blend a portion of the soup in a blender and then return it to the pot.
• Flavor Boosting: Adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers can elevate the flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving.
• Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead. The flavors have time to meld together, making each spoonful even more delicious.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove, adding a bit of extra broth or cream to restore its creaminess.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth, adding extra veggies like corn, peas, or bell peppers. You can even toss in some cubed tofu for protein.
• Spicy Ham and Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup some heat. You could also stir in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese at the end to create a cheesy version. This is especially tasty if you like a more indulgent soup.
• Herbed Version: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage can be added in while the soup simmers for a more aromatic and herbal twist.

Final Words

When it comes to comfort food, it’s hard to beat a good soup, and Ham and Potato Soup is the epitome of cozy, satisfying meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a great recipe to try whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook. The soup’s versatility allows you to tweak it to your liking, making it perfect for just about any palate.