Ham Cabbage And Potato Soup Recipe

Soup is the ultimate comfort food, right? There’s something so satisfying about a steaming bowl that warms you from the inside out, especially when it’s packed with wholesome, hearty ingredients. This Ham, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a cozy weekend lunch.

The combination of smoky ham, tender cabbage, and soft potatoes creates a balanced and filling dish, while the broth ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re trying to use up leftover ham or simply craving a meal that checks all the boxes for comfort and nutrition, this recipe is a winner. Let’s dive into the details and get you set up to create this cozy soup from scratch.

This recipe is super straightforward and easy to put together. You’ll find yourself prepping the ingredients in no time, with just a little bit of simmering to let all the flavors meld. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity: it’s made from pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, yet it’s incredibly flavorful. Here’s everything you’ll need and how to pull it off.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients for this soup are basic, but together they make magic happen. Here’s a rundown:

2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the broth.
1 medium onion – Finely chopped. Onion adds a savory base flavor to the soup.
2 cloves garlic – Minced. Garlic brings that perfect punch of flavor that complements the ham so well.
3 medium potatoes – Peeled and diced. Potatoes thicken the soup and give it a hearty texture.
4 cups chicken broth – For a savory base, though you can also use vegetable or ham broth for extra depth.
2 cups diced ham – Use leftover ham from a roast or ham steak. The smoky and salty flavors are essential.
2 cups shredded cabbage – Adds crunch, flavor, and a bit of earthiness.
Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasonings, but don’t skip them. They bring everything together.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – A must-have herb that complements the cabbage and ham beautifully.
1 bay leaf – For a slight herbal note.
1/2 cup milk or cream (optional) – For added creaminess, if you prefer a smoother texture.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can make this soup step by step:

Sauté The Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, toss in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic. This is your flavor foundation!
Add The Potatoes And Broth

Stir in the diced potatoes, allowing them to cook for a couple of minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add The Ham And Cabbage

Stir in the diced ham, shredded cabbage, thyme, and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let everything simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the ham has had time to infuse the broth with its smoky flavor.
Finish With Cream (Optional)

If you want a richer, creamier soup, now’s the time to add milk or cream. Stir it in and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes. Taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve And Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving, ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness you’ve just made.

Ingredient Insights

Now that we’ve gone over the recipe, let’s take a deeper look at the key ingredients and why they’re so essential to this dish:

Ham: The star of the show! Ham adds that wonderful savory, salty flavor that balances the earthiness of the cabbage and the mildness of the potatoes. It also imparts that rich, smoky undertone that makes the soup feel extra comforting.
Cabbage: Cabbage is often overlooked as a soup ingredient, but it really shines here. It provides crunch, flavor, and a touch of bitterness that cuts through the richness of the ham. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Potatoes: Potatoes help thicken the soup and give it a velvety texture. They absorb the flavors of the broth, making every spoonful extra satisfying. You can use russet potatoes for a starchier, creamier texture or Yukon Golds for a buttery flavor.
Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, and it’s essential for creating a flavorful, well-rounded broth. If you have leftover ham bones or a ham hock, you could even use that instead of store-bought broth for an extra boost of flavor.

Expert Tips

Want to take your soup to the next level? Here are some expert tips that can help you elevate this dish:

Use Leftover Ham: This soup is perfect for repurposing leftover ham from a holiday meal or a large family dinner. The extra flavor from the ham bone will add depth to the broth.
Add a Smoked Ham Hock: If you don’t have leftover ham, consider adding a smoked ham hock to the soup. It’ll infuse the broth with that delicious smoky flavor while you cook, and you can remove the bone later.
Use Fresh Cabbage: While pre-shredded cabbage might save you time, it often has a tougher texture. Freshly shredded cabbage will cook down better and create a more satisfying texture in the soup.
Add a Dash of Hot Sauce or Mustard: If you like a little heat or acidity, a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add a surprising kick that balances the richness of the ham and potatoes.
Make It Ahead: Soups often taste better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Make this soup a day in advance for an even more flavorful meal!

Recipe Variations

Want to get creative? Here are some variations you can try with this recipe:

Add Carrots: Carrots would add a slight sweetness to the soup and enhance the overall flavor profile. Dice them up and add them alongside the potatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Go Vegetarian: If you want a lighter, vegetarian version of this soup, swap the ham for mushrooms. Their umami flavor will mimic the depth of ham and make the soup rich without the meat.
Use Sweet Potatoes: For a twist, you could swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. The subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory ham and makes for a unique variation.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or some red pepper flakes if you want to bring some heat into the mix. It adds an extra layer of flavor that’s especially nice on cooler days.

Final Words

This Ham, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is everything you could want in a cozy meal: hearty, flavorful, and soul-soothing. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s customizable-whether you prefer it creamy or brothy, with a little extra heat or a dash of sweetness, there’s always room to make this recipe your own.

Ham Cabbage And Potato Soup Recipe