Delicious Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe for Ultimate Comfort
There’s something so wonderfully comforting about a warm bowl of soup, don’t you think? I can still remember chilly autumn afternoons at my grandmother’s house, where the smell of something delicious bubbling on the stove would fill the air, wrapping around us like a cozy blanket. One of her signature dishes was this creamy ham and potato soup. Each spoonful brought an eruption of flavors—the heartiness of potatoes, the savory bite of ham, and that dreamy creaminess that made it feel like a hug in a bowl.
This family favorite has become a staple in my own kitchen, especially during those brisk fall and winter evenings when all you want is a comforting meal that feels like home. Whether you’ve got leftover ham in the fridge or just a craving for something creamy and delicious, this soup is easy to whip up and is bound to become your next go-to recipe. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Weeknight Dinner: Simple ingredients come together in a snap, perfect for busy nights.
- Budget-Friendly: Makes the most of leftover ham and staples you probably already have.
- Comforting Flavors: Creamy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s like a warm hug with every bite.
- Customizable: You can mix it up with different herbs, veggies, or even add cheese for extra richness!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking, here’s what you’ll need to gather. I always recommend using fresh ingredients whenever possible—they add so much more flavor!
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds a wonderful punch!)
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (I love using Yukon Gold for their creamy texture)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (this is a great way to use up leftovers!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luxurious, creamy finish)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking this soup is as easy as pie! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful, hearty soup in no time:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion, garlic, and potatoes. It’s always a good idea to measure everything out first to keep things flowing smoothly!
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. The smell will be heavenly! Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
- Add the Potatoes and Broth: Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, around 10-15 minutes.
- Incorporate the Ham: Stir in the diced ham and dried thyme. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes so the ham can warm through.
- Make It Creamy: Using a potato masher, gently mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup. Then, pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Final Touches: Let it simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through, and the flavors have melded beautifully. And don’t forget to taste it—this is your moment to adjust the seasoning!
And voila! You have a pot of creamy ham and potato soup just waiting to be enjoyed. Remember, the key here is to occasionally stir and make sure nothing is sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you find the soup is too thick, feel free to thin it out with a splash of broth or water.
Pro Tips & Variations
Let’s have some fun with this recipe! Here are a few ideas to put your own spin on it:
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the flavors beautifully. If you have them on hand, sprinkle some on just before serving!
- Cheesy Twist: Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese for some extra gooey goodness. Just stir it in until melted!
- Spice It Up: If you like a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftover Love: This soup is so versatile! Try adding leftover vegetables or even beans to bulk it up.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your creamy ham and potato soup is ready to go, how should you serve it? Nothing feels cozier on a cool evening than a steaming bowl of soup paired with some crusty bread for dipping. I love a nice, warm sourdough—torn apart and dipped right into the bowl!
If you’re feeling a bit more casual, serve it with a simple, fresh salad for a nice contrast. And let’s not forget a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea to sip while you enjoy this delicious goodness. Trust me, you’ll feel relaxed and satisfied!
Storage Tips
This soup is perfect for making ahead—believe me, the flavors only get better the next day!
- Refrigerate: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Freeze: You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container since the soup will expand as it freezes.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to dig in, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, and reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat—stirring often.
FAQs
Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! This soup is delicious with leftover chicken, turkey, or even sausage. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is heated through.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap out the ham for some sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add a little extra seasoning to amp up the flavors!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk. The soup will still be tasty, but it may not have that same luxurious creaminess. You could also try coconut milk for a dairy-free version!
How can I thicken the soup?
Besides mashing some of the potatoes, you can also add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) at the end. Stir it in and let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a bowl full of warmth and nostalgia with this creamy ham and potato soup. I hope this recipe brings a little comfort and joy to your kitchen, just like it has in mine. Don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out! Share your experience in the comments below, and if you add any fun twists, I’d love to hear about those too. Happy cooking, friend!
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Delicious Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe for Ultimate Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor a rich creamy ham potato soup that warms you up Perfect recipe for cozy nights Easy to make and loaded with flavor Enjoy today
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A comforting and creamy ham and potato soup perfect for chilly evenings. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 15 grams
Keywords: soup, creamy ham and potato soup, easy recipe, comfort food