When the weather starts to cool down and you're craving something warm, hearty, and satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade ham and potato soup. This delicious dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will make everyone ask for seconds. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy snack, this ham and potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making the perfect bowl of ham and potato soup—from the essential ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for the best presentation.
What is Ham and Potato Soup?
Ham and potato soup is a classic, creamy soup that combines the savory flavor of ham with the comforting, starchy goodness of potatoes. This soup is typically made with a base of chicken broth or stock, thickened with a bit of cream or milk, and enhanced with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. The combination of these simple ingredients results in a rich, hearty soup that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. The star of the show, however, is the diced ham, which adds a delicious smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender potatoes.
Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup
To make a delicious pot of ham and potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Diced Ham: 2 cups of cooked, diced ham. You can use leftover ham from a holiday meal or buy pre-cooked ham from the store.
- Potatoes: 4 cups of peeled and diced potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their starchy texture.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced. Onions add depth and a sweet, savory flavor to the soup.
- Carrots: 1 cup of diced carrots. Carrots bring a slight sweetness and a pop of color.
- Celery: 1 cup of diced celery. Celery adds a subtle crunch and earthiness.
- Garlic: 2 cloves of minced garlic. Garlic enhances the savory flavors.
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups of chicken broth. This forms the base of the soup, providing a rich and flavorful liquid.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Butter is used to sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the soup.
- Flour: ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Flour is used to thicken the soup.
- Milk or Cream: 2 cups of whole milk or heavy cream. This adds creaminess and helps to thicken the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors.
- Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about ham and potato soup is its versatility. There are numerous substitutions and variations you can try to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ham with smoked tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Low-Fat Version: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, use low-fat milk instead of cream, and reduce the amount of butter. You can also use lean ham.
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking for a cheesy ham and potato soup.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious pot of ham and potato soup:
- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk (or cream) until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Add the Ham: Stir in the diced ham and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the ham is heated through.
- Season the Soup: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Remember that ham can be quite salty, so be careful not to over-season.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme.
How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking ham and potato soup is straightforward, but following a detailed guide can help ensure that your soup turns out perfectly every time. Here’s a recap of the key steps:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in butter. This process helps to build the base flavors of the soup.
- Simmer the Potatoes: Once the vegetables are soft, add the potatoes and broth, then simmer until the potatoes are tender. This step allows the potatoes to absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Thicken the Soup: After the potatoes are cooked, thicken the soup with a mixture of flour and milk. This step gives the soup its creamy texture.
- Add the Ham: Finally, stir in the ham and let it warm through before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making ham and potato soup is relatively simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: If you overcook the potatoes, they can become mushy and fall apart in the soup. Keep an eye on the cooking time and test the potatoes for doneness.
- Not Thickening Properly: Adding the flour and milk mixture too quickly can result in lumps. Be sure to whisk the mixture thoroughly and add it slowly to the soup while stirring.
- Over-Seasoning: Remember that ham is naturally salty, so be cautious when adding additional salt. Taste the soup before seasoning and add salt gradually.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation is key when serving a dish as hearty and rustic as ham and potato soup. Here are some tips to make your soup look as good as it tastes:
- Use a White Bowl: A simple white bowl will make the colors of the soup pop, especially the vibrant orange carrots and green herbs.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Serve with Bread: Ham and potato soup is perfect with a side of crusty bread or a warm roll. You can also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun and hearty presentation.
How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup
Ham and potato soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion:
- Casual Meal: Serve the soup in a large bowl with a side of buttered toast or garlic bread for a simple and satisfying meal.
- Party or Potluck: For a party or potluck, consider serving the soup in a slow cooker to keep it warm throughout the event. Offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, and green onions so guests can customize their bowls.
- Family Dinner: For a family dinner, serve the soup with a fresh green salad and a loaf of homemade bread. This combination makes for a balanced and wholesome meal.
Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup
Elevate your ham and potato soup presentation with these creative ideas:
- Bread Bowls: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside. The bread absorbs the flavors and makes for a delightful edible bowl.
- Mini Soup Shots: Serve the soup in small shot glasses or espresso cups as an appetizer. Top each with a tiny crouton or a sprig of parsley for a chic touch.
- Layered Serving: Layer the soup with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche in the center of each bowl. Swirl it slightly for a beautiful marbled effect.
Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips
To ensure your ham and potato soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal. The pre-cooked ham saves time and adds a rich, smoky flavor.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold. These potatoes break down slightly during cooking, helping to thicken the soup.
- Add the Milk Slowly: When adding the milk or cream, do so slowly and stir constantly to prevent curdling. Bringing the milk to room temperature before adding it to the hot soup can also help prevent this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze ham and potato soup?
A: Yes, ham and potato soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make ham and potato soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables in a pan first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the potatoes, broth, and ham. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the milk and flour mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water to the soup and cook until it thickens.
Q: What can I use instead of ham?
A: If you don’t have ham, you can use cooked bacon, smoked sausage, or even diced chicken as a substitute. Each option will add its own unique flavor to the soup.
Q: Is ham and potato soup gluten-free?
A: The traditional recipe uses flour to thicken the soup, which contains gluten. To make the soup gluten-free, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
Ham and potato soup is a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and hearty ingredients, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or as a way to use up leftover ham, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. By following the tips and variations outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a bowl of ham and potato soup that’s perfect for you and your loved ones. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the ultimate comfort food today!
PrintHam and Potato Soup Recipe
Warm up with a bowl of creamy Ham and Potato Soup, featuring tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, hearty broth. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, offering comfort and flavor in every bite. Ideal for utilizing leftover ham.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Potatoes
- Ham
- Onion
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Milk or cream
- Butter
- Flour
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter until soft.
- Add diced potatoes and ham; cook for a few minutes.
- Stir in flour to coat ingredients.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk or cream; heat through without boiling.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk or cream.
- Use leftover ham to enhance the flavor.
- Can be garnished with cheddar cheese, chives, or bacon bits.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
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