Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any season? This creamy ham and potato soup recipe is the ultimate meal, blending savory ham with tender potatoes in a rich broth. It's an easy recipe that will leave your taste buds delighted and your stomach satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is bound to be a hit. Keep reading for all the steps, tips, and variations that will help you create a truly irresistible dish!

this Recipe

What is Ham and Potato Soup?

Ham and potato soup is a classic comfort food that brings together the smoky flavor of ham with the creamy texture of potatoes. This dish typically involves simmering diced potatoes and ham in a flavorful broth, often thickened with a bit of cream or milk. It’s versatile, filling, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something warm and comforting on a chilly day, ham and potato soup is always a good choice.

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Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup

Before you begin, gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic ham and potato soup:

• 2 cups cooked ham (diced or shredded)
• 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about ham and potato soup is its adaptability. You can easily modify the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen or to meet dietary preferences. Here are a few popular substitutions and variations:

1. Potatoes: While russet potatoes are the classic choice, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used for a creamier texture. You could even use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-packed variation.
2. Ham: If you don’t have leftover ham, feel free to use ham steaks, bacon, or even smoked sausage. For a vegetarian option, skip the ham and add more vegetables like carrots or celery.
3. Broth: Chicken broth is commonly used, but you can opt for vegetable broth if you want a lighter or vegetarian version.
4. Dairy Alternatives: If you want to make this dish dairy-free, replace the cream with coconut milk or any plant-based milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
5. Extra Veggies: You can toss in vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for added nutrition and texture.
6. Spices: For more depth, try adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking ham and potato soup is easy, and it doesn’t take much time. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delicious meal.

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté them for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the soup later.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easy to pierce with a fork.
5. Add Ham and Cream: Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the diced ham and heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Season: Add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. If you like a creamier consistency, you can also stir in some sour cream at this stage.
7. Final Adjustments: If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out with additional broth. If it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken up.

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

To summarize the cooking process:

1. Prep: Dice the ham, potatoes, and aromatics.
2. Sauté: Cook onion and garlic in butter.
3. Thicken: Stir in flour to make a roux.
4. Simmer: Add broth and potatoes, simmer until tender.
5. Combine: Add ham, cream, and seasonings.
6. Adjust: Thin or thicken as needed, then serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your ham and potato soup turns out perfectly, keep these common mistakes in mind:

1. Overcooking the Potatoes: If you cook the potatoes for too long, they may become mushy and disintegrate into the soup. Check them frequently after 15 minutes of simmering.
2. Not Thickening the Soup: Without a proper roux or thickening agent, your soup may end up too thin. Don’t skip the flour or other thickening steps if you prefer a heartier soup.
3. Undercooked Aromatics: Make sure to sauté the onion and garlic long enough to develop their flavor. Rushing this step can result in a bland base.
4. Not Seasoning Enough: Potatoes and cream can dull the flavors of your soup, so don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and herbs.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is everything when it comes to serving a cozy, inviting bowl of soup. Here are some tips to make your ham and potato soup look as delicious as it tastes:

• Garnish Generously: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. This adds color and richness to your dish.
• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup alongside a slice of crusty bread or homemade biscuits to soak up the creamy broth.
• Rustic Bowls: Ladle the soup into rustic, earthy bowls to enhance the comfort-food aesthetic.

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How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and potato soup is best served piping hot. Consider offering it as:

1. A Main Course: This soup is hearty enough to serve as a meal on its own. Pair it with bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables.
2. As a Starter: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer for a larger meal, especially during the colder months.
3. For Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, and it’s also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for batch cooking and future meals.

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Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

Get creative with your presentation to make your meal stand out:

• Soup in Bread Bowls: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside for a fun and edible presentation.
• Top with Crispy Bacon: Fry up some bacon bits and sprinkle them on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Layered Garnishes: Stack layers of garnishes like shredded cheese, green onions, and paprika for a visually stunning bowl.

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Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• For Extra Creaminess: Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the soup. This will thicken the broth without needing extra flour or cream.
• Make It Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist on the traditional recipe.
• Double the Batch: This soup freezes well, so feel free to double the ingredients and freeze half for another quick meal down the line.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze ham and potato soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients (except for the cream and flour) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream and flour during the last 30 minutes.

Q: Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
A: Yes, if you have leftover mashed potatoes, you can stir them into the soup during the final stages of cooking for extra creaminess.

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Conclusion

Ham and potato soup is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and comforting flavors. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to make and even easier to customize to your liking. With the right ingredients, a little know

-how, and some creativity, you’ll have a hearty, delicious meal ready to serve in no time. Don’t forget to try out some of the substitutions and variations to make this soup your own! Enjoy every spoonful, and be sure to share this recipe with family and friends who could use a little comfort in a bowl.

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