Ham Potato Soup Creamy Hearty

There is something so comforting about a creamy ham potato soup simmering away on the stove that fills my kitchen with memories of cozy winter evenings This recipe delivers all the heartiness of a classic chowder but with easy pantry ingredients and a quick cook time making it a favorite for both weeknights and family gatherings

I first made this soup when I needed a way to stretch leftover Easter ham and have made it every season since My children ask for seconds every time and it has become our go to creamy comfort meal whenever we want something satisfying and warm

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Rich flavor as a base for sweating vegetables Look for a golden stick with a delicate aroma
• Onion: Finely chopped to melt into the soup Select one that feels heavy with no green sprouts
• Carrot: Large peeled and diced for a hint of sweetness and color Choose one that is firm and bright orange
• Celery: Adds classic depth and crunch to the broth Go for sturdy stalks with crisp leaves
• Potatoes: Peeled and diced for creamy body Yukon golds or russets work best Look for potatoes that are smooth and free of blemishes
• Garlic: Freshly minced or finely chopped for savory aromatic notes Firm cloves with tight skin are a sign of freshness
• Cooked ham: Diced for smoky salty bites Use leftover baked ham or deli ham and trim off any excess fat
• All purpose flour: Thickens the soup base giving it that velvety texture Use a fresh unopened bag to avoid any off flavors
• Low sodium chicken stock or broth: Adds a savory backdrop Go for one with minimal additives
• Chicken bouillon: Punches up the umami Choose a high quality paste over powdered forms if possible
• Milk: Whole or two percent for creaminess The richer the milk the silkier your soup
• Salt: Only a pinch needed since ham and broth already add salt Taste before adding more
• Cracked pepper: For balancing flavors Use freshly cracked pepper for the best aroma

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Melt the unsalted butter in a sturdy pot over medium heat Add finely chopped onion diced carrot and celery Stir often and let these cook gently for about four minutes until the onions are soft and translucent and the carrots begin to yield to your spoon This step unlocks the sweetness of the vegetables and forms a savory foundation

Build the Soup Base:

Add the diced ham and potatoes to the pot Stir well to coat everything in melted butter and cook for about two minutes so that the ham browns lightly and the potatoes warm through Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about thirty seconds until you can really smell its fragrant bite

Thicken the Mixture:

Sprinkle the all purpose flour over the vegetables and ham Continuously stir and cook this mixture for about two minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste You are making a quick roux which will give body to the soup

Simmer the Broth:

Pour in the chicken stock and add the chicken bouillon Stir very well to incorporate all the flour so there are no lumps Turn the heat higher and bring everything to a gentle boil Let it simmer until the potatoes are just fork tender which takes about ten to twelve minutes Test them by poking with a fork—you want them cooked but not mushy

Finish with Milk and Season:

Reduce the heat to medium low Pour in the milk while stirring the soup gently You should see the soup start to thicken after about five minutes Taste and then add a bit of salt only if it is needed plus freshly cracked pepper

Taste and Serve:

Once the soup is thick and luscious taste again to adjust seasoning if desired Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or fresh herbs on top if you like

Cooking with diced ham reminds me of childhood Easters when I would sneak cubes off the cutting board My favorite part is watching the soup thicken as it simmers filling the house with a savory aroma that pulls everyone into the kitchen

Storage Tips

Keep leftover ham potato soup refrigerated in an airtight container It stays fresh for up to four days Reheat gently on the stove over low heat adding a splash of milk to loosen if needed This soup does not freeze well if made with milk so for better results freeze before adding the milk and then finish the last step after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have no ham try cooked crumbled bacon or even shredded rotisserie chicken Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken stock for a lighter flavor For a dairy free version swap milk for a plain unsweetened nut milk and omit the butter in favor of olive oil

Serving Suggestions

Pair your soup with a green salad or thickly sliced toasted rustic bread A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives brightens every bowl For extra comfort serve with a side of pickles or a sharp cheddar grilled cheese sandwich

Cultural and Historical Context

Hearty potato and ham soups are traditional in American and European kitchens especially after festive meals when leftovers are put to work The blend of root vegetables and pork makes this a classic winter soup perfect for stretching ingredients

Seasonal Adaptations

Use early season new potatoes and spring onions for a lighter springtime version Swap in diced parsnip or turnip with the carrot for an autumn twist Fresh corn added in late summer gives a sweet pop to the soup

Success Stories

One holiday I made a double batch and sent containers home with neighbors New cooks tell me they love how the simple steps make a rich thick chowder The feedback is always that the soup disappears faster than expected

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze make the soup through the simmering step but do not add milk Cool and store in freezer containers When ready to serve thaw and stir in fresh milk as you reheat for the best texture

This creamy soup delivers comfort and heartiness every time Make it once and it will become your family’s cold weather favorite

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture without becoming mushy.

→ Can I use leftover ham?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked ham works perfectly. Simply dice it and add as directed, enhancing flavor and minimizing waste.

→ How can I thicken the soup if needed?

If the soup turns out thinner than you like, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of extra milk and stir it in while simmering.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use half-and-half, heavy cream, or dairy alternatives like unsweetened almond milk for a different texture and flavor.

→ Is it possible to freeze ham potato soup?

It's best enjoyed fresh since soups with milk may change texture when frozen. If desired, freeze without milk and add it after reheating.

→ How can I boost the flavor further?

Homemade ham broth using a ham bone provides deeper flavor and richness. Sautéing veggies well also intensifies taste.