Nothing says comfort like a steaming bowl of homemade Ham & Potato Soup. With its rich, creamy broth filled with tender chunks of ham, creamy potatoes, and a medley of flavorful vegetables, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re seeking warmth on a cold winter’s day or simply craving a satisfying meal any time of year, this hearty soup will become an instant family favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating this soul-warming dish, share some helpful tips to elevate the flavor, and show you how this recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Let’s get started!
Why Ham & Potato Soup is the Perfect Comfort Food
When you think of comfort food, it’s easy to imagine a warm, filling dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Ham & Potato Soup checks all those boxes. The combination of tender Yukon Gold potatoes, savory ham steaks, and a velvety cream base creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that can make any meal feel like a special occasion.
This soup is not only hearty and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. It can be served as a cozy dinner, a comforting lunch, or even as a side dish at holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make, filling, and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Ham & Potato Soup
Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll need for this rich, savory soup:
For the Soup Base:
- 2 boxes of low-sodium chicken broth (for a balanced, flavorful base)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 1 lb carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 7 sticks of celery (chopped)
- 5-8 Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 ham steaks (cut into cubes)
- 4-6 cloves of garlic (minced)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 1 tablespoon parsley (for flavor and garnish)
- 1 tablespoon dry chives (optional, for added flavor)
For the Cream Base:
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk (2% milk is recommended for a creamy texture)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ham & Potato Soup
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by prepping your vegetables and ham. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces for even cooking. Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Cube the ham steaks and mince the garlic cloves. Having all your ingredients ready will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
2. Cook the Soup Base
In a large pot, add the low-sodium chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s heated, add the onion, carrots, celery, ham cubes, garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley, and dry chives. Stir everything together to combine.
Let the soup cook slowly on low heat for about 1 to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. This slow cooking process allows the vegetables to soften, the ham to infuse the broth with its savory flavor, and the potatoes to release their starch, making the soup naturally creamy. If the broth begins to reduce too much, add the second box of low-sodium chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency.
3. Prepare the Cream Base
In a separate smaller pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk it continuously to form a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Continue to cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Cream Base into the Soup
Once the cream base has thickened to your liking, add it to the simmering soup, stirring to incorporate it fully. The cream base will help thicken the soup and create that rich, velvety texture that makes this dish so comforting. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes to ensure the flavors are fully blended.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup has thickened and all the ingredients are fully cooked, ladle the warm Ham & Potato Soup into bowls. You can garnish with additional parsley or chives for a fresh touch. Serve it with crusty bread or a light side salad to complete the meal.
Additional Tips for Perfect Ham & Potato Soup
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your personal taste. Adding a little thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves can deepen the flavor and create a more complex profile.
- Thicken the Soup: For an even thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the cream base. This helps create a heartier consistency.
- Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover holiday ham or smoked ham. If you don’t have ham steaks, you can also use pre-cooked ham cubes.
- Make Ahead: Ham & Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also reheats well, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 cup)
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for one serving of Ham & Potato Soup:
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 14g
While this soup is certainly indulgent, the balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats makes it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The low-sodium chicken broth ensures the soup isn’t too salty, allowing the flavors of the vegetables and ham to shine through.
Conclusion: A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
There’s something inherently comforting about a big bowl of Ham & Potato Soup. Its creamy texture, savory flavor, and heartiness make it the perfect dish for warming up on a chilly day or indulging in a cozy meal with loved ones. This soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and bring a smile to your face with every spoonful.
With easy-to-find ingredients, simple preparation, and customizable options, this recipe is destined to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend meal, Ham & Potato Soup will bring warmth, comfort, and joy to your table.