There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of Ham Potato Soup especially when the weather is chilly. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and the rich, smoky flavor brings a little comfort to any day.
Helps use up leftover ham and potatoes, speeds weeknight dinners, and provides a comforting, budget-friendly meal.
I always seem to have leftover ham after a big family dinner, and sometimes it feels like I’m stuck trying to figure out what to do with it. This recipe solves that problem and makes sure nothing goes to waste! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight.
What I really love about this soup is how quickly it comes together. In just about 40 minutes, you’ve got a creamy, hearty dish that’s bubbling and ready to serve. And if you want a lighter version, you can skip the heavy cream while still enjoying that rich taste.
If you love quick and easy recipes, you might also enjoy this Shrimp Orzo Salad that’s perfect for those busy days.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor : The combination of smoky ham and savory broth lends a hearty taste that makes each spoonful comforting and satisfying.
- Creamy Texture : With just the right amount of milk and butter, this soup has a smooth and creamy consistency that keeps you coming back for more.
- Quick Preparation : In under 45 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty in a pinch.
- Easy Storage : Leftovers are a breeze to store in the fridge, so you can enjoy this tasty soup for a few days without losing flavor or quality.
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cool Time: 0 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: soup
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty and creamy ham and potato soup, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup (76g) unsalted butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup (130g) carrots, large, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup (75g) diced celery
- 3 cups (450g) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups (225g) cooked ham, diced
- 1/3 cup (40g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) low sodium chicken stock or broth
- 21/2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
- 3 cups (720ml) milk, whole or 2%
- 1/41/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/41/2 teaspoon cracked pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Ham & Veggies: Begin by cooking diced ham and onions in a large pot over medium heat. You will know it is ready when the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step releases the savory ham flavor, enhancing your soup. Take care not to let them brown too much, as burnt bits can overpower the taste.
- Add Potatoes & Broth: Next, add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken stock. Stir to ensure the potatoes are submerged, and remember to cut the potatoes evenly for uniform cooking. Allow the mixture to bubble away, which will create the base of your soup.
- Simmer & Thicken: Let the mixture simmer gently until the potatoes are tender. You should see steam rising, and the aroma will be inviting. This step contributes to a thick, comforting texture, so avoid rushing it by turning up the heat; this can lead to unevenly cooked potatoes.
- Whisk in Milk: Once the potatoes are soft, whisk in the milk slowly to achieve a creamy texture. Keep the heat low to prevent curdling, and add the milk gradually to maintain the ideal consistency.
- Season & Serve: Finally, season the soup with salt and cracked pepper to taste. Stir well and enjoy the aromatic blend filling your kitchen. Start with less seasoning; you can always adjust the flavors later if necessary.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove and add a splash of milk if it has thickened too much.
- Expert Tips: Make your homemade ham broth for richer flavor. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired thickness. Use leftover ham for added convenience.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty artisan bread. Pair with a fresh Bacon Lettuce Tomato Salad. Top with grated cheese before serving.
- Recipe Variations: Add a touch of smoked paprika for depth. Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill. Stir in peas or corn for extra vegetables.
- Ingredient Notes: For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade ham broth instead of chicken stock. If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute the milk with more broth or water. For additional flavor and texture, feel free to include other vegetables like peas or corn.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 291
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 464mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 48mg
Recipe Tips
- If the soup is thicker than you like, gradually stir in more milk until you achieve your desired consistency.
- When using leftover ham, aim for about 1 ½ cups to ensure a hearty flavor without waste.
- If you notice lumps after thickening with flour, a quick blend can help achieve a smoother texture.
- For a richer taste, enhancing the broth with an extra teaspoon of bouillon can make a significant difference.
- If you’re adding milk, be sure to lower the heat first to prevent curdling; this helps keep the soup smooth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this ham potato soup with crusty artisan bread or a fresh Bacon Lettuce Tomato Salad. You can also top it with grated cheese before serving to enhance the dish.
This soup can serve as a base for other recipes like a hearty casserole or as a filling for savory pies. It also works well in various meal prep ideas for easy weeknight dinners.
Add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to each bowl for extra flavor. A splash of hot sauce can also provide a spicy kick that complements the soup.
Recipe variations
- You can use turkey bacon or sausage instead of ham for a different protein option that complements the flavors well.
- Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth, or toss in a few fresh herbs like thyme or dill to brighten the dish.
- Either stir in a cup of peas or corn, or swap out some potatoes for sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrition.
- If you’re serving a larger group, keep in mind that doubling the recipe requires 2/3 cup of butter and 3 cups of diced ham.
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How to Store?
To keep your ham potato soup fresh, follow these storage tips:
Refrigeration: Store soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stove.
Freezing: Place soup in a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Heat in a pot on the stove. If thickened, stir in a splash of milk while warming.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad
- Salmon Asparagus Orzo Salad
- Shrimp Orzo Salad 2
- Mediterranean Shrimp Orzo Salad with Feta and Lemon
If you enjoyed this Ham Potato Soup or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. I appreciate taking time to read about this recipe, thank you!
