If you are looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that warms the soul and satisfies every craving, this Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, velvety broth, this soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. The luscious combination of creamy textures and hearty flavors makes it perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want a cozy meal that feels homemade with love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it uses simple and accessible ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From aromatic vegetables to creamy cheese, every component contributes something special to the dish.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
- Diced onion (1/2 cup): Brings sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
- Diced carrot (1/2 cup): Offers subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- Diced celery (1/2 cup): Provides a refreshing, crisp flavor contrast.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): Infuses a warm, aromatic punch that complements the ham beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the soup, giving it that creamy, velvety texture you crave.
- Chicken stock (4 cups): Forms the flavorful liquid base, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Diced ham (3 cups): Delivers savory, smoky bits of protein in every spoonful.
- Diced potatoes (4 cups): The star ingredient, providing heartiness and a tender bite.
- Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mild heat that rounds out the taste.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Boosts the soup’s richness and creamy consistency.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang and smooth texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, plus more for serving): Melts into the soup, creating that irresistible cheesy goodness.
- Thinly sliced scallion (1): Provides a fresh, bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatic Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook this mix gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the veggies soften—about 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the flavorful foundation for the soup that will carry through the entire dish.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the softened vegetables and stir it thoroughly to coat everything. Cooking the flour for about two minutes while stirring prevents any raw flour taste and helps thicken the soup later on. Next, slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Now it’s time to add the diced ham, potatoes, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure the potatoes are fully submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low, then cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender throughout.
Step 3: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Once your potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened, stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue cooking just until the cheese melts completely, creating a luxuriously creamy texture. At this stage, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and your creamy, comforting bowl of soup is ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the magic of a simple garnish. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese over each bowl for that melty, cheesy top layer. Then, add some thinly sliced scallions for a fresh, crisp contrast that brightens the entire dish. These small touches truly elevate the presentation and flavor dimension.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls—perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A fresh garden salad or steamed greens also complement the richness of the soup, balancing out the meal with light and crisp flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls, turning each bowl into an edible part of the meal. You could also place the soup atop a bed of crispy bacon bits or sprinkle crispy fried onions for extra texture. Personalize it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce to suit your taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe, no worries! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some headspace in the container because the soup will expand as it freezes.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to revive that luscious creaminess. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken stock or cream to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a classic and sharp flavor, you can experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, which may change the texture slightly.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or green beans to maintain a hearty texture and flavor.
What type of potatoes work best in this recipe?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and add creaminess, which is ideal for this soup. Russet potatoes are also fine, but they tend to break down more, creating a thicker, more mashed texture.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Begin by sautéing the vegetables and flour on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the stock, ham, and potatoes. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cream, sour cream, and cheese near the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
How do I prevent the soup from being too thick or too thin?
Adjust the texture by controlling the amount of chicken stock and cream. If the soup is too thick, simply stir in a bit more stock or cream. If too thin, cook uncovered a little longer to reduce the liquid or add an extra tablespoon of flour dissolved in cold liquid as a thickener.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe is a true gem in the comfort food world—simple to make yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this soup feels like a warm embrace in every bowl. Give it a try and watch it become one of your beloved go-to recipes for all seasons.
