The tantalizing aroma of ham and potato soup wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in its creamy goodness. As steam rises from the bowl, you can almost taste the savory blend of tender potatoes, hearty ham, and rich broth. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings.
Picture this: It’s a rainy afternoon, and you’re curled up on the couch with your favorite blanket. You hear the gentle simmering of potage bubbling away as your favorite playlist hums softly in the background. That’s right! Ham and potato soup has a way of bringing people together, creating memories that linger long after the last spoonful is savored.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting ham and potato soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- It’s packed with flavors that both kids and adults will love.
- The creamy texture combined with savory ham and tender potatoes makes it visually appealing on any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices!
Ingredients for ham and potato soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ham: Use leftover cooked ham or diced ham steak for a burst of flavor.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creaminess.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor profile; chop it finely for even cooking.
- Carrots: Diced carrots add sweetness and color; they’re also a great way to sneak in some veggies.
- Celery: Chopped celery gives a nice crunch and enhances the overall taste of the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the aroma and flavor—don’t skimp here!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in flavor.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious, creamy texture that makes every bite feel indulgent.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make ham and potato soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften and fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas—about five minutes should do it.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Ham
Stir in diced potatoes and diced ham. Let them mingle with those aromatic veggies for another couple of minutes. This step is crucial because it builds up all those yummy flavors!
Step 3: Pour in Broth
Carefully pour in enough chicken broth to cover all your ingredients by about an inch. Bring it to a boil over high heat before reducing the heat to low. Allow it all to simmer gently for about twenty minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Creamy Finish
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in heavy cream—a generous splash will do! Let it simmer for an additional five minutes so everything blends beautifully into a creamy masterpiece.
Step 5: Seasoning Time
Taste your soup! Here’s where you can adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Feel free to get creative; maybe throw in some thyme or parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping—because who doesn’t love dipping? Enjoy this delightful bowl of comfort that warms not just your stomach but also your soul. crispy freedom fries.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
You Must Know
- This delightful ham and potato soup is not just a bowl of comfort; it’s a hug in liquid form!
- Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup warms the heart and soul while being incredibly simple to whip up.
- The aroma alone will have your family flocking to the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced potatoes and ham. Pour in broth, let it simmer, and finish with cream for richness. This sequence ensures every ingredient shines without losing its flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients—try bacon instead of ham or toss in some kale for a burst of color. You can also play with spices like paprika or thyme to personalize your ham and potato soup.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed, to keep the soup creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
Use russet potatoes for their creaminess; they break down beautifully in soups.
- Avoid overcooking the potatoes to maintain some texture.
- Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens up the flavors and makes your soup pop!
Sometimes I make this ham and potato soup when friends drop by unexpectedly—it’s always a hit! Watching everyone enjoy it reminds me that good food brings people together like nothing else.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for ham and potato soup?
To create a delicious ham and potato soup, you will need diced ham, potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. chicken caesar pasta salad Feel free to customize the recipe by including your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
How long does it take to make ham and potato soup?
Preparing ham and potato soup typically takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time and an additional 20-30 minutes for simmering. If you use pre-cooked ham, the process is quicker. The total time from start to finish is around an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal that is both hearty and comforting.
Can I freeze leftover ham and potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze leftover ham and potato soup! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop until warm.
What can I serve with ham and potato soup?
Ham and potato soup pairs well with crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping. A fresh garden salad or a side of steamed vegetables complements the meal nicely. complementary crunchy broccoli salad For a heartier option, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches or a simple quiche that balances out the flavors of the soup. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Conclusion for ham and potato soup :
In summary, ham and potato soup is a simple yet satisfying dish that combines savory ingredients into a creamy blend. With just a few key components like diced ham and potatoes, this recipe offers flexibility for personalization based on your preferences. homemade sourdough croutons Whether enjoyed fresh or frozen for later use, this comforting meal is perfect for any occasion. Embrace its warmth on chilly days or share it with loved ones for a hearty treat!
Ham and Potato Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul with creamy goodness. Packed with tender russet potatoes, savory ham, and vibrant vegetables, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that brings everyone together. Serve it alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a splash of oil until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the diced potatoes and ham; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth until ingredients are covered by about an inch. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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