There’s something magical about the warmth of Ham and Potato Soup on a chilly evening. The creamy texture, the savory ham, and the tender potatoes come together like best friends in a cozy blanket—inviting and comforting. crispy sweet potato fritters Each spoonful is like a hug that whispers, “Everything will be alright.” For more inspiration, check out this Rosemary Garlic White Bean Soup recipe.
Picture this: you return home after a long day, your coat still dusted with winter’s chill. You walk into your kitchen and the rich aroma of simmering ham and potatoes greets you like an old friend. This soup doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart with nostalgia.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Ham and Potato Soup is not only a breeze to prepare, but it also packs a flavorful punch that warms you from the inside out. The creamy base is visually appealing, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry! [/info_box]
Sharing this recipe often leads to smiles and happy bellies at family gatherings. delicious glazed ham recipe Everyone loves how hearty it is without being overly heavy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ham: Use leftover ham or a smoked ham hock for added flavor; both work beautifully.
Potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their buttery texture when cooked.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s base.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight.
Carrots: Diced carrots provide natural sweetness and color that brighten up the dish.
Celery: Chopped celery adds crunchiness and a refreshing note to balance the richness.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade is always a bonus.
Cream: Heavy cream makes it luscious, but feel free to substitute with half-and-half for lighter options.
Thyme & Bay Leaf: Fresh thyme adds an earthy flavor while bay leaves impart subtle depth; don’t forget to remove them before serving!
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. quick feta tomato pasta.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Base Ingredients: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they soften slightly, releasing their sweet aromas.
Add Garlic & Ham: Toss in minced garlic and diced ham. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes, letting the ham’s savory goodness meld with the vegetables.
Add Potatoes & Broth: Stir in diced potatoes along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to let it simmer peacefully.
Add Cream and Seasonings: Once potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes), pour in heavy cream along with thyme and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Simmer Until Perfect: Let your soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes so all flavors can marry beautifully together. The soup should thicken slightly.
Serve & Enjoy: Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and relish every hearty bite of comfort! hearty turkey chili recipe.
With each spoonful of Ham and Potato Soup you enjoy, you’ll feel enveloped by its warmth and charm—just like being wrapped in a cozy blanket of love from those who matter most! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This hearty ham and potato soup is more than just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a family favorite, perfect for chilly days. Plus, it comes together quickly, making weeknight dinners a breeze. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add potatoes and ham followed by broth. Let it simmer until everything is tender for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ham for bacon or add veggies like carrots or celery. Spice it up with some herbs or hot sauce for a personalized twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring occasionally to keep its creamy consistency.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For peak flavor, use leftover ham from holiday dinners or smoked ham hocks. Always season to taste; taste testing as you go ensures the perfect balance of flavors. Lastly, let it cool completely before refrigerating for safety and quality. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this ham and potato soup; my friends practically licked the bowls clean! Their smiles told me that I had nailed it.
FAQ
Can I use frozen potatoes in ham and potato soup?
Yes, frozen potatoes work well but may change the texture slightly after cooking.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply ensure that your broth is gluten-free and avoid any flour-based thickeners.
What can I serve with ham and potato soup?
Crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs perfectly with this deliciously hearty soup.
Ham and Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy, hearty dish combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and aromatic herbs to create a warm embrace in a bowl. Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, it’s a family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or simply looking for a cozy dinner option, this soup delivers nostalgia and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add minced garlic and diced ham; cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in diced potatoes and chicken broth; bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Pour in heavy cream along with thyme and bay leaf; season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf before serving; ladle into bowls and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
