As winter’s chill descends upon us, often accompanied by the quiet beauty of falling snow and crisp, cold air, there’s nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a hearty bowl of homemade soup. Here in South Jordan, when the temperatures drop and the landscape turns white, my kitchen inevitably fills with the aroma of simmering goodness. Among our family’s most cherished recipes, this Ham and Potato Soup stands out as an absolute favorite. It’s a dish that promises warmth, creamy texture, and rich, savory flavors in every spoonful, making it the perfect antidote to a blustery day.
This particular recipe is a delightful adaptation, inspired by the wonderful culinary creations shared by @cleanmondaymeals. While their original might lean towards a specific cooking method, I’ve tailored it to be a fantastic stove-top version, ensuring maximum flavor and ease of preparation right on your range. The key modification involves adjusting the liquid content, using a generous 8 cups of broth, which creates a beautifully balanced and robust soup base when cooked over the stovetop. For those who prefer the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is incredibly versatile; simply reduce the broth to 4 cups and add the heavy cream at the very end of the cooking process for a similarly luscious result.
Imagine coming in from the cold, your fingers tingling, and being greeted by the comforting scent of potatoes, ham, and savory broth bubbling gently on the stove. This Ham and Potato Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a warm embrace in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for a taste of its creamy, flavorful depths. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or picking up a fresh cut from the deli, the combination of tender potatoes, smoky ham, and a rich, creamy broth creates a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.
One of the best aspects of this soup is its inherent heartiness. It’s a full meal in itself, packed with nutritious vegetables and protein, ensuring that you and your loved ones feel truly satisfied. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor you’ll achieve, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend project. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this soul-warming Ham and Potato Soup that’s sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection, just as it has in our home.
Ham and Potato Soup
Ham and Potato Soup
There’s nothing like some creamy, tasty soup to warm the heart. This is one of my favorites!
Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 1 voter.
Ingredients
- 2 T oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 4 large carrot sticks chopped
- 4 ribs of celery chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 8 medium russet potatoes chopped
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- pepper to taste
- 16 oz ham chopped
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Instructions
- Add a couple of Tbsp of oil to a large pot or Dutch oven, placing it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready for the vegetables.
- Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery to the heated oil. Sauté these aromatic vegetables, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften and become translucent, usually about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for your soup.
- Gradually whisk in the flour with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a light roux. This helps thicken the soup later. Then, pour in the chicken broth and add the chopped potatoes. Whisk thoroughly to ensure the flour dissolves smoothly and no lumps form.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for approximately 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once the potatoes are perfectly soft, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper (adjusting to your personal preference), and the chopped ham. The residual heat will warm the ham through.
- Finally, add the heavy cream. Stir until thoroughly combined, creating a luxurious, creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasonings one last time if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
The Heart of Comfort: Why This Ham and Potato Soup Shines
There’s a reason ham and potato soup has been a beloved classic for generations. It’s the epitome of comfort food – unpretentious, deeply satisfying, and brimming with familiar flavors. This recipe elevates that classic by focusing on simple yet high-quality ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. The combination of smoky ham, earthy potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is both nourishing and incredibly delicious. It’s the kind of meal that makes a busy day feel a little lighter, and a cold evening feel a lot warmer.
Beyond its comforting qualities, this soup is also wonderfully versatile. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover ham from holiday feasts, transforming what might otherwise be relegated to sandwiches into a show-stopping main course. The process of sautéing the mirepoix (onions, carrots, and celery) at the beginning of the recipe is fundamental, as it builds a foundational layer of flavor that permeates every spoonful of the soup. And the addition of heavy cream at the end? That’s the magical touch that transforms a good soup into an unforgettable, velvety masterpiece.
Tips for Perfection and Creative Variations
To ensure your Ham and Potato Soup is nothing short of perfect, here are a few expert tips and exciting variations:
- Potato Choice: While russet potatoes are recommended for their starchiness, which helps thicken the soup and provides a creamy texture when cooked, you can experiment with other varieties. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery flavor and hold their shape well, while red potatoes can add a touch of color and a slightly firmer bite. Just be aware that different potatoes may cook at varying rates.
- Achieving the Right Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can gently mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or potato masher. For an even creamier result, you could blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the ham and cream. If your soup is too thick, simply thin it out with a little extra chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Slow Cooker Adaptation: As mentioned, this recipe is easily adaptable for a slow cooker. Follow steps 1 and 2 to sauté the vegetables and create the roux in a skillet. Then transfer the sautéed vegetables, broth, and potatoes to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until potatoes are tender. Add the ham, salt, pepper, and heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This method is fantastic for busy days!
- Add-ins for Extra Flavor: Don’t hesitate to customize your soup! Frozen corn or peas can be added during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering for extra sweetness and color. A handful of fresh spinach wilted in at the very end also works wonderfully. For a cheesy twist, stir in a cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese just before adding the cream.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor of the ham. For a subtle kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the salt and pepper.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch. If using cornstarch, create a slurry by whisking 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup during step 4. Cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute heavy cream with a full-fat coconut cream (note: this will impart a slight coconut flavor) or a rich, unsweetened dairy-free milk alternative, though the texture and richness may vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
This Ham and Potato Soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. A crusty loaf of artisanal bread or warm, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth. A light, fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the soup. For an extra touch, garnish individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives, a swirl of extra cream, or even some crispy crumbled bacon bits.
Leftovers of this soup are equally delicious, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may find that the soup has thickened considerably. Simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk while warming it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. Avoid boiling the soup vigorously after adding the cream to prevent separation.
A Warm Invitation to Your Kitchen
This Ham and Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warmth and comfort in your home. It’s about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing stories, and savoring a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and incredible flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again, especially when the weather calls for something truly special.
So, the next time the weather turns chilly, and you find yourself craving a hearty, comforting meal, reach for this Ham and Potato Soup recipe. It’s a culinary journey from simple ingredients to a truly memorable dish, guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at your table. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and relish the warmth it brings to your home.