Introduction

Creamy Ham Potato Soup is a comforting dish that effortlessly combines the rich flavors of ham and potatoes into a velvety bowl. As the cooler months approach, this soup serves as a warm embrace on chilly days, nourishing both body and soul.

With its simple yet fulfilling ingredients, this recipe allows you to transform leftover ham into a delightful meal. Whether it's a Sunday dinner or a weeknight family gathering, each spoonful promises a hearty experience.

Ingredients

4 cups diced potatoes
Potatoes are the star of this soup, providing substance and a creamy texture when cooked. Their starchiness thickens the soup, adding to the overall comfort.
2 cups diced ham
The ham infuses the soup with a savory, smoky flavor that elevates the dish. Using leftover ham is economical and reduces waste, making this recipe perfect for repurposing.
1 medium onion, chopped
Onions add depth to the flavor profile, offering sweetness and savoriness when sautéed. They also provide a foundation for the soup's aromatic qualities.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic complements the onion and ham with its robust and fragrant essence. It enhances the overall aroma of the soup, allowing the other flavors to shine.
4 cups chicken broth or stock
Broth is the base of your soup, infusing every ingredient with flavor. It adds richness to the dish while keeping it light and suitable for a cozy meal.
1 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream is essential for achieving that indulgently creamy texture. It adds richness and helps unify all the flavors, making every bowl velvety smooth.
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Thyme introduces a subtle earthiness and pairs beautifully with ham and potatoes. Its inclusion enhances the soup’s overall complexity and aroma.
Salt and pepper to taste
These basic seasonings elevate the flavors, ensuring that all ingredients work harmoniously. Adjusting the salt and pepper is crucial as each ham and broth varies in saltiness.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients: wash, peel, and chop the potatoes, onion, and ham.

Proper preparation is fundamental for even cooking and flavor development. Uniformly chopped ingredients ensure that everything cooks similarly, allowing for a balanced taste and texture.

Step 2: In a large pot, sauté the onion in a tablespoon of oil over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Sautéing the onion softens it and draws out its sugars, creating a sweet flavor base. Adding the garlic later prevents it from burning, which could lead to bitterness in your soup.

Step 3: Stir in the diced potatoes and ham, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to warm the ham and coat the potatoes in the aromatics.

Warming the ham with the potatoes helps meld the flavors, allowing the ham to infuse its smokiness into the potatoes. This step builds a robust flavor foundation that enhances the final dish.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Simmering allows the potatoes to cook through while extracting flavors from the broth and ham. Check for tenderness by piercing the potatoes with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart.

Step 5: Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of them for thicker consistency, leaving some intact for texture.

Mashing part of the potatoes results in a creamy base while maintaining chunks for texture. This balance makes the soup hearty and satisfying, appealing to those who enjoy varied consistencies.

Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme, then simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Adding the cream at the end helps preserve its richness and prevents curdling. Letting it simmer briefly after addition ensures that it melds seamlessly into the soup.

Step 7: Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade creamy ham potato soup.

Garnishing adds a touch of freshness that brightens the overall dish. Serving hot enhances the flavors and ensures every bowl feels like a warm hug on a cool day.

Transforming Leftovers into Comfort Food

One of the greatest aspects of creamy ham potato soup is its ability to transform leftovers into a delightful new meal. Whether you have extra holiday ham or a slice from a previous dinner, this recipe revitalizes those remnants, ensuring they don’t go to waste. The combination of potatoes and ham creates a nourishing dish that feels both practical and indulgent.

Adjusting Consistency for Your Preference

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. While we suggest mashing some potatoes for thickness, you can adjust this according to your liking. If you prefer a thinner, brothier soup, simply skip the mashing step. Conversely, for a heartier, creamier texture, mash more potatoes or reserve some to blend for a velvety finish. This flexibility accommodates different tastes.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles with Add-ins

Once you master the basics of this creamy ham potato soup, feel free to explore add-ins that excite your palate. Vegetables such as carrots or celery can be sautéed with the onions for added flavor and nutrition. Incorporating herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the freshness of the dish, allowing you to customize it based on seasonal vegetables or your preferences.

FAQs

What if my soup is too thick?

If the soup is too thick, simply stir in additional chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Gradually adding liquid will help you control the thickness effectively.

Can I use a different type of meat besides ham?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with cooked chicken, bacon, or even turkey as a substitute for ham, while maintaining delicious flavor.

My soup turned out bland; what can I do?

If you find the soup lacking flavor, try adding more salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley. Taste frequently and adjust seasonings a little at a time until balanced.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Yes, you can easily add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas to enhance the nutrient profile and add variety to the texture and flavor.

How can I make this soup spicier?

For a spicy kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the onions. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.

What if I want a vegetarian version of this soup?

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Consider adding beans for protein and texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Ham Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings families together. With its simplicity and adaptability, it serves as a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Next time you have leftover ham, remember this recipe to transform it into something truly special. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that a homemade bowl of soup can bring.

Recipe Card

Print Pin