When the chill of winter sets in and the days grow shorter, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of Creamy Potato and Ham Soup. The moment I stir together the melting butter with sautéed onions and fragrant garlic, I'm transported to cozy kitchens filled with laughter and love. This recipe emerged on one of those dreary afternoons when I craved something heartwarming yet simple, and boy, did it deliver!
With just a handful of ingredients and about an hour of your time, you can craft a rich, velvety soup that turns ordinary potatoes and leftover ham into a delightful dish worth sharing. Each spoonful bursts with comforting flavors, making it the ultimate antidote to fast food fatigue. Best of all, this creamy delight is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a cozy night in—because let’s face it, we all deserve a little extra warmth these days. Join me in bringing this easy and satisfying meal to your table; you won’t regret it!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Potato and Ham Soup
- This Creamy Potato and Ham Soup is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a comforting meal in just about an hour.
- The rich and velvety flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a hit with family and friends alike.
- Its versatility means you can tailor the ingredients based on what's in your pantry, ensuring that no two bowls are ever the same.
- Visually, the warm and inviting presentation of this soup will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first spoonful.
Creamy Potato and Ham Soup Ingredients
Get ready to blend warmth and flavor with these simple ingredients!
For the Base
- Butter – adds richness and a buttery flavor to the soup.
- Yellow onion – diced for a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the overall taste.
- Celery – brings a crunchy texture and a hint of earthiness.
- Carrots – diced for natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
- Garlic – minced to provide a fragrant kick that elevates the soup's flavor.
For the Thickening
- All-purpose flour – helps create a creamy texture by thickening the soup.
For the Soup
- Chicken broth – the essential liquid that infuses the soup with savory depth.
- Potatoes – peeled and diced, they add heartiness and creaminess to the mix.
- Ham – diced to give the soup its delicious savory backbone, making it a true Creamy Potato and Ham Soup.
- Milk – adds creaminess, balancing flavors while keeping the soup light.
- Heavy cream – enriches the dish, resulting in a luxuriously creamy finish.
Seasoning
- Salt – to taste, enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Black pepper – to taste, adds a hint of spice for a well-rounded flavor.
How to Make Creamy Potato and Ham Soup
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Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat, letting it create a delightful aroma. This sets the perfect stage for our flavorful base!
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Sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You'll want them to become tender and aromatic, lifting your spirits as they cook.
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Stir in the minced garlic and flour; cook for another minute. This not only adds depth of flavor but also helps thicken our soup to that perfect creamy consistency!
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Whisk in the chicken broth slowly, ensuring there are no lumps. Let this simmer and meld together for a few minutes while we prepare for the potatoes.
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Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the mixture, then lower the heat and allow them to simmer for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender. The kitchen will soon be filled with comforting smells!
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Mix in the diced ham, milk, and heavy cream, stirring well. Let the soup heat gently for another 5-10 minutes until it's warm and inviting.
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Season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy every soothing, creamy spoonful!
Optional: Top with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Potato and Ham Soup?
As you savor the rich warmth of this comforting soup, let’s explore some delightful pairings that will enhance your meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: A rustic, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping and scooping up every creamy bite, bringing a satisfying crunch to the mix.
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Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds a light, crisp contrast to the rich soup, balancing the flavors beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts introduce a caramelized flavor and earthy notes, elevating the meal with their vibrant colors.
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Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are a heavenly addition that works wonderfully to soak up the flavorful broth of the soup. Who could resist?
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp adds a touch of sweetness and seasonal spice, rounding out your meal with coziness and nostalgia.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the comforting soup with its bright acidity and fruity notes, making each sip refreshing alongside the creamy texture.
Each of these options complements the heartiness of Creamy Potato and Ham Soup, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Potato and Ham Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, celery, and carrots up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pre-dice the ham and potatoes (to prevent browning, soak the diced potatoes in cold water) and keep them refrigerated for the same time frame. When you are ready to serve, just follow the cooking steps starting from melting the butter, adding your prepped vegetables, and finishing with the broth, milk, and cream. This way, you’ll have a hearty, comforting soup with minimum effort and just as delicious as if you made it all at once!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Potato and Ham Soup
Fridge: Store any leftover Creamy Potato and Ham Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Reheating: Heat on low to medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through to retain that creamy texture.
Creamy Potato and Ham Soup Variations
Feeling adventurous in the kitchen? Let’s explore some delightful ways to customize this comforting bowl of goodness!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for cream and omit the heavy cream for a lighter version that still comforts.
You won’t sacrifice flavor, and the nutty undertones can elevate the soup beautifully! -
Vegetarian: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or liquid smoke for that savory flavor while keeping it meat-free.
This swap allows everyone to enjoy the rich taste of the soup without compromising on heartiness. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that complements the creamy texture.
This fiery twist brings a whole new level of excitement in every spoonful! -
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill while simmering for an aromatic boost that freshens the dish.
They infuse the soup with vibrant flavors and elevate your culinary experience! -
Cheesy Delight: Mix in a handful of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, just before serving for a gooey, indulgent finish.
The melted cheese enriches the soup, making it irresistibly creamy with each bite. -
Loaded Style: Top with crispy bacon, green onions, and shredded cheese to mimic your favorite baked potatoes!
This adds a fun, hearty texture, turning your soup into a complete meal. -
Root Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and texture; it’s a great way to utilize seasonal vegetables.
Their natural sugars will enhance the soup's flavor, making it even more satisfying! -
Coconut Cream: Use coconut milk instead of dairy cream for a tropical flair and subtle sweetness.
This creamy version pairs wonderfully with the savory ingredients, providing a unique twist that’s simply delightful!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Creamy Potato and Ham Soup, be sure to sauté your vegetables until they are soft to enhance their flavors fully.
- A common mistake is adding the flour too quickly; make sure to cook it briefly to avoid a raw taste.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender after cooking, but leave some potato chunks for added heartiness.
- Keep an eye on the simmering potatoes, ensuring they are fork-tender but not mushy, which will create the perfect creamy consistency.
Creamy Potato and Ham Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for Creamy Potato and Ham Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for that creamy texture. These varieties break down nicely during cooking, resulting in a velvety soup.
How should I store leftover Creamy Potato and Ham Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often use glass containers for better temperature control. To reheat, simply warm it through on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Creamy Potato and Ham Soup?
Definitely! Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What can I do if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Very common! If your soup seems too thick once reheated, simply add a splash of milk or broth and stir well. Heat gently on the stove until it reaches your desired consistency—no one wants to miss out on that creamy goodness!
Are there any dietary considerations for Creamy Potato and Ham Soup?
Absolutely! If you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. For gluten-free needs, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Always check if your ham contains allergens!
Creamy Potato and Ham Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrots until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and flour; cook for another minute.
- Whisk in the chicken broth slowly, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the mixture, then simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Mix in the diced ham, milk, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
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