You know those chilly days when all you want is something warm, cozy, and utterly satisfying? That’s where my ham and potato soup comes in! I remember growing up, my grandma would whip up a big pot of this deliciousness whenever the weather turned cold. The smell would waft through the house, wrapping us in a blanket of comfort before we even took our first spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a dreary day, filled with tender potatoes, savory ham, and that creamy goodness that just hits the spot. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen for those cold evenings. It’s hearty, easy to make, and simply perfect for sharing with loved ones around the dinner table!
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Ham and Potato Soup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Melting the Butter
First things first, let’s get that cozy base going! In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it—don’t let it burn! You want it to be bubbly and fragrant, setting the stage for all the deliciousness to come.
Step 2 – Sautéing the Onion
Now, toss in 1 chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. The aroma will start wafting through your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3 – Adding the Ham
Next, add in your 2 cups of diced ham. Cook it for a few minutes to enhance that savory flavor. You’ll notice the ham starts to caramelize a bit, which adds depth to our soup.
Step 4 – Incorporating Potatoes and Broth
Now it’s time for the stars of the show—4 cups of diced potatoes and 3 cups of chicken broth! Bring everything to a boil. Once you see those bubbles, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This is crucial; you want those potatoes to cook evenly without falling apart!
Step 5 – Cooking Until Tender
Let the soup simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can check this by poking a potato piece with a fork; it should slide in easily. You’re getting closer to that warm bowl of goodness!
Step 6 – Final Touches
Finally, stir in 1 cup of milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and heat through for a few minutes. And just like that, your ham and potato soup is ready to be enjoyed warm. Serve it up and watch everyone gather around for a comforting bowl of happiness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a hearty and comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Perfect for using up leftover ham, making it economical and delicious.
- It’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry!
- Easy to customize—add your favorite veggies for an extra boost of flavor.
- Great for meal prep; it stores well and tastes even better the next day.
- Ready in just 45 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser—perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
- Every spoonful is rich and creamy, with the perfect balance of ham and potatoes.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your ham and potato soup turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, quality ingredients can make a world of difference. If you can, use homemade chicken broth—it adds so much flavor!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: When sautéing the onion, take your time. You want it to become soft and fragrant, which really builds the flavor base for your soup.
- Get Creative: Feel free to toss in leftover veggies you have lying around. Carrots or celery work wonderfully here! They add extra nutrients and flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier soup, swap out the milk for heavy cream. It’ll take your soup to a whole new level of richness!
- Season as You Go: Taste your soup as it simmers. You can always add more salt and pepper at the end, but starting with a little seasoning helps develop the flavors.
- Let It Rest: If you can, let your soup sit for about 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove.
With these tips, you’re all set to whip up the best ham and potato soup ever! Enjoy every cozy, delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, it’s always nice to know what’s in your bowl! Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values for this delicious ham and potato soup, so you can enjoy it with confidence:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
This soup is not only hearty and filling but also offers a good balance of protein and carbs to keep you satisfied. Enjoy knowing that while you’re indulging in this warm bowl of joy, you’re also getting some solid nutrition!
FAQ Section
Can I use leftover ham?
Absolutely! Using leftover ham is one of the best things about this ham and potato soup. Not only does it save you time, but it also adds fantastic flavor to the soup. Just dice it up and toss it in; you’ll be amazed at how it transforms the dish. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid food waste and enjoy every last bit of that delicious ham!
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can definitely freeze ham and potato soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat. Just be sure to stir it well, as it may thicken in the freezer. It’s like having a cozy meal waiting for you on a busy day!
What additional vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative with your veggies! I love adding diced carrots and celery for an extra pop of flavor and nutrition. You can also throw in some peas or corn for a splash of color and sweetness. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you add tougher veggies, so they have time to soften up. The beauty of this soup is that you can really make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about storing that delicious ham and potato soup! If you have any leftovers (which I doubt will happen, but just in case), let the soup cool completely before storing it. This way, it won’t steam up your container and create unwanted moisture. Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge; it’ll stay fresh for about 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, just reheat it gently on the stovetop. I recommend doing this over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. You might find that it thickens a bit after being in the fridge, so feel free to add a splash of broth or milk while reheating to get it back to that creamy, dreamy consistency!
If you want to freeze it, follow the same cooling process and transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. Just remember to label it with the date! When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat on the stove. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like pulling out a warm bowl of ham and potato soup on a chilly day! Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious ham and potato soup ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! This soup is so hearty and satisfying, but a few tasty additions can make your dinner even more delightful.
- Crusty Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty loaf of bread! A nice baguette or a hearty sourdough works perfectly for dipping into the creamy soup. Trust me, the combination is pure bliss!
- Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite greens for a pop of color and crunch.
- Cheese: Top your soup with freshly grated cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for an extra layer of flavor. It melts beautifully and adds a deliciously gooey texture that’s hard to resist!
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a classic comfort food combo, serve your soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. The crispy, buttery bread and melty cheese are the perfect companions to your warm, hearty soup.
- Pickles or Relish: If you like a little tang, serve some pickles or relish on the side. The acidity cuts through the richness of the soup and adds a delightful zing!
These options not only complement your ham and potato soup but also elevate your meal, making it feel like a cozy feast. Enjoy your comforting dinner, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
For more delicious soup recipes, check out this collection of comforting soups!
Print
Ham and Potato Soup: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore This Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting ham and potato soup perfect for cold days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until soft.
- Add diced ham and cook for a few minutes.
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat through and serve warm.
Notes
- For a creamier soup, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- Add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: ham and potato soup, comfort food, soup recipes
