Delicious Ham & Potato Soup: The Perfect Comfort Food Recipe
When it comes to hearty, warm, and comforting meals, few dishes can beat a steaming bowl of ham & potato soup. Whether it’s a chilly night or you’re trying to use up leftover ham from a holiday dinner, this classic soup is the perfect solution. With tender chunks of potato, flavorful ham, and a creamy or brothy base, this soup is as satisfying as it is easy to make. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make ham and potato soup from scratch, offer several variations, and provide tips on storing and reheating your leftovers.
Why Ham & Potato Soup is a Family Favorite
Ham and potato soup is a versatile dish that brings together simple, budget-friendly ingredients to create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. The combination of savory ham, tender potatoes, and a flavorful broth or creamy base is a winning one that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s also a great way to make the most of leftover ham from holidays like Christmas or Easter.
For more inspiration on comforting soups, check out The Ultimate Comfort Food Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns, which is another easy, warming meal for cold days.
Key Ingredients for Ham & Potato Soup
To make the best ham & potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ham: Leftover ham from a roast or a store-bought ham steak works perfectly.
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down slightly, thickening the soup.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions for added depth of flavor.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base, giving the soup a rich taste.
- Milk or Cream: For a creamy version of the soup, add milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and bay leaves.
For a budget-friendly take on this recipe, you can easily adapt it using ingredients you likely already have on hand, such as canned broth or frozen vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Ham & Potato Soup
Making ham & potato soup is incredibly simple and requires just a few steps:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat some oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Ham and Potatoes
Next, add the diced ham and peeled, cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together so the vegetables and ham are well combined.
3. Pour in the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure all the ingredients are submerged. Add your seasonings, such as salt, pepper, thyme, and a bay leaf for extra flavor. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make it Creamy (Optional)
For a creamy version, stir in milk or cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can also thicken the soup by mashing some of the potatoes with a fork or immersion blender.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve the soup hot. Garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
For more ideas on how to make comforting, easy soups, take a look at Slow Cooker Magic: Unveiling the Ease of Crock Pot Baked Ziti, which is another great option for busy weeknights.
Creamy vs. Brothy Ham & Potato Soup
One of the best things about ham & potato soup is its versatility. Whether you prefer a creamy texture or a lighter, brothy base, you can easily tailor this recipe to your liking.
- Creamy Version: This version uses milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream to create a rich, indulgent soup. For an even thicker texture, you can mash some of the potatoes or stir in a flour or cornstarch slurry.
- Brothy Version: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can skip the cream and enjoy a broth-based version. This is ideal for those who are watching their calorie intake or prefer a soup with more broth.
Popular Variations of Ham & Potato Soup
There are countless ways to customize ham & potato soup to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few popular variations:
1. Cheesy Ham & Potato Soup
Add shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan to the soup for an extra layer of flavor. Stir in the cheese during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure it melts smoothly.
2. Ham & Sweet Potato Soup
For a slightly sweeter, more nutritious version, substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes. Sweet potatoes add a touch of natural sweetness and extra vitamins to the soup.
3. Vegetable-Loaded Ham & Potato Soup
Boost the veggie content by adding frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach to the soup. This adds both color and nutrition, making it a more well-rounded meal.
4. Dairy-Free Ham & Potato Soup
To make the soup dairy-free, simply skip the milk or cream, or substitute it with coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Ham & Potato Soup
Ham & potato soup is perfect for meal prep, as it stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:
Storing in the Fridge
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a bit of broth or milk to refresh the texture.
Freezing for Later
Ham and potato soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. If you’re making a creamy version, consider freezing the soup before adding the cream to avoid separation during thawing. Add the cream when reheating the soup instead.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the soup’s consistency.
Nutritional Benefits of Ham & Potato Soup
While ham and potato soup is undeniably delicious, it also offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Ham provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Fiber: Potatoes are rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps you feel full.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in the soup (carrots, celery, onions) provide essential vitamins like vitamin A and C, as well as important minerals like potassium.
For a healthier version, consider using lower-sodium broth and lean ham, or substitute some of the potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
FAQs About Ham & Potato Soup
1. Can I make ham and potato soup without cream?
Yes! Simply leave out the cream for a brothy version of the soup, or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk if you prefer.
2. What type of ham is best for ham and potato soup?
Leftover ham from a holiday roast works best, but you can also use store-bought ham steaks or even a ham bone for added flavor.
3. How do I thicken ham and potato soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a flour or cornstarch slurry. This will create a thicker, more stew-like consistency.
4. Can I freeze ham and potato soup?
Yes, ham and potato soup freezes well, but if you’re making a creamy version, it’s best to add the cream after reheating to prevent separation.
5. How long will ham and potato soup last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, the soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a way to use up leftover ham, ham & potato soup is a fantastic option that the whole family will love. With its simple ingredients and customizable nature, you can adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For more delicious comfort food recipes, don’t forget to check out The Ultimate Comfort Food Crockpot Potato Soup with Hashbrowns and Slow Cooker Magic: Unveiling the Ease of Crock Pot Baked Ziti.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
