Ham And Potato Soup Recipe

Nothing warms you up like a comforting bowl of Ham and Potato Soup. This hearty, creamy soup is loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, flavorful broth that's sure to hit the spot on any chilly day. Perfect for using leftover ham or just a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and takes minimal effort for maximum flavor. The best part? It’s versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!

this Recipe

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What Is Ham and Potato Soup?

Ham and Potato Soup is a rich, creamy soup made with chunks of ham, tender potatoes, and often onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, all simmered in a broth that’s thickened with cream or milk. It's a comforting dish that brings together classic flavors in one pot, perfect for cool evenings or as a hearty meal when you're craving something warm and filling. Whether you’re using leftover ham or fresh ham steaks, this soup is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

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Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup

Here's everything you’ll need to make a delicious pot of Ham and Potato Soup:

• 2 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3-4 cups diced potatoes (about 3-4 medium russet or Yukon Gold potatoes)
• 1 ½ cups diced ham (leftover ham or ham steak works great)
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or ham broth for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Substitutions and Variations

Ham and Potato Soup is a flexible recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more flavor.
• Ham Substitutes: If you don't have ham, you can substitute with bacon, sausage, or even leftover turkey or chicken.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk and cream. You can also use a non-dairy butter substitute.
• Thickening the Soup: If you want a thicker soup without using flour, you can mash some of the potatoes or blend part of the soup and stir it back into the pot.
• Herbs and Spices: You can experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage to change up the flavor profile. Adding a pinch of cayenne or paprika can give the soup a little heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make a warm, hearty pot of Ham and Potato Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes, Ham, and Broth

• Stir in the diced potatoes and ham. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and thyme.
• Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Stir everything together.
• Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

• In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour and ½ cup of milk to create a slurry.
• Slowly pour the slurry into the soup while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Add the remaining milk and cream (if using). Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Adjust Seasonings and Serve

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
• Remove the bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

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How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making Ham and Potato Soup is easy and takes just a few steps to bring everything together into a warm, creamy dish. The key is to sauté the vegetables to develop flavor, simmer the potatoes until tender, and then thicken the broth with a simple flour and milk mixture. Once it’s done, you’ll have a perfectly balanced soup with hearty potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy broth that’s sure to warm you up on any chilly evening.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ham and Potato Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, or they’ll break down too much and turn mushy. Check them after about 15 minutes of simmering to make sure they’re tender but still hold their shape.
• Not Sautéing the Vegetables: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth helps to build flavor. Don’t skip this step, as it makes a big difference in the final taste of the soup.
• Adding the Milk Too Soon: Wait to add the milk and cream until after the potatoes are cooked through. Adding it too early can cause the dairy to curdle.
• Skipping the Bay Leaf: Don’t forget to add a bay leaf while simmering the soup—it adds a subtle depth of flavor. Just be sure to remove it before serving!

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Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Ham and Potato Soup even more appetizing, here are some tips for serving and presentation:

• Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is the perfect companion to this hearty soup, allowing you to scoop up all the delicious broth.
• Top with crispy bacon: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top of each bowl before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or chives adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Add a dollop of sour cream: For an extra creamy touch, swirl a spoonful of sour cream into each serving.

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How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato Soup is best served hot and fresh, straight from the pot. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs for a burst of color. This soup is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

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Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

While Ham and Potato Soup is a rustic, comforting dish, here are a few ways to make it visually appealing:

• Serve in bread bowls: For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. The bread soaks up the broth and adds extra flavor.
• Use colorful bowls: Serve the soup in brightly colored bowls for a pop of contrast against the creamy, pale soup.
• Top with croutons or cheese: Sprinkle some homemade croutons or a bit of shredded cheddar cheese on top for added texture and flavor.

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Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Ham and Potato Soup turns out perfectly:

• Use leftover ham: This soup is an excellent way to use up leftover holiday ham. Just dice it up and toss it into the pot.
• Make it ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freeze for later: You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Ham and Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave. Just stir in a little extra broth or milk if the soup thickens too much after chilling.

Can I freeze Ham and Potato Soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

What kind of potatoes work best for this soup?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for Ham and Potato Soup. Russets break down a bit more, making the soup creamier, while Yukon Golds hold their shape and provide a buttery texture.

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Conclusion

Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on cold days or when you’re in need of a hearty, satisfying meal. This creamy, flavorful soup comes together with simple ingredients and is incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Serve it with crusty bread, garnish it with fresh herbs, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting from scratch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!

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