Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Picture a steaming bowl of creamy ham and potato soup, rich with the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic.

There’s something about this cozy dish that spells comfort and warmth.

It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a beloved favorite for chilly evenings.

As the ingredients meld, the flavors transform into a hearty symphony of savory goodness.

Let’s bring this delightful dish to life and enjoy its comforting embrace.

Kitchen Tools Required

• 1 large pot
• 1 sharp knife
• 1 cutting board
• 1 ladle
• 1 wooden spoon

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Cook & Prep Time

To efficiently manage your time while preparing the Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, follow this timeline:

Prep Work (Total: 20 minutes)

1. Reading and Gathering Ingredients & Equipment (5 minutes)
   • Read through the recipe and gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
2. Chopping and Preparation (15 minutes)
   • Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
   • Peel and dice the potatoes.
   • Chop the cooked ham and fresh parsley.

Cooking Activities (Total: 30 minutes)

1. Heating and Sautéing (5 minutes)
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Boiling and Cooking Potatoes (15 minutes)
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
   • Add diced potatoes and cook until tender.
3. Simmering (10 minutes)
   • Stir in the cooked ham and reduce the heat to a simmer.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
   • Simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes until the flavors meld.

Resting and Finishing (Total: 5 minutes)

1. Stirring and Resting (5 minutes)
   • Remove the soup from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
   • Allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Add the diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.

Stir in the cooked ham and reduce the heat to a simmer.

Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, black pepper, and thyme.

Simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes until the flavors meld.

Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Tips

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh and light side to balance the richness of the soup.
• Crackers: Add a crunchy texture and are easy to pair with each spoonful.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A comforting and indulgent accompaniment to enhance the cheesy flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a healthy and colorful side to round out the meal.

Storage

To store Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Freezing

To freeze Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, let it cool completely.

Then transfer it to airtight containers. Leave space for expansion.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, warm it gently on the stove over low heat.

Stir occasionally. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Alternatively, use a microwave. Stir halfway through.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy broth makes this soup a favorite among many.

In just under an hour, you can prepare a satisfying dish that will warm you up on a chilly day.

Adjust the seasonings and texture to your liking for a personalized touch.

Whether you prefer a thicker, mashed potato consistency or a chunkier version, this soup is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences.

Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.

Enjoy this delightful soup with family and friends, and make it a staple in your recipe collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Ham With Another Protein?

You can substitute 2 cups cooked ham with 2 cups cooked chicken or turkey. Verify it’s diced to match the original texture. This maintains protein levels while offering a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

Is This Soup Gluten-Free?

Yes, this soup’s gluten-free if you verify all ingredients, like chicken broth and ham, are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels for hidden gluten sources. Adjust seasoning to taste if substituting any ingredients for specific dietary needs.

Can I Use Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk. To maintain creaminess, consider adding 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the soup prior to simmering.

How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Replace ham with 2 cups diced mushrooms for a meaty texture. Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. Use 1 cup milk or plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Confirm all ingredients are vegetarian-certified for best results.

What Type of Potatoes Work Best for This Soup?

Use russet potatoes for their starch content, which thickens the soup nicely. Dice into 1/2-inch cubes. Alternatively, Yukon Gold potatoes provide a buttery flavor and creamy texture. Maintain even sizes for consistent cooking. Avoid waxy potatoes.