Creamy Ham Potato Soup: 6 Comforting Recipes to Try

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Ham Potato Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Thick and hearty, this soup is filled with savory chunks of ham and potatoes, making it the perfect meal to use up leftover holiday ham. Whether you’re battling the winter chill or simply craving a rich, creamy bowl of goodness, this comforting ham potato soup is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ham Potato Soup

This Creamy Ham Potato Soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile and packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

Hearty and filling, perfect for a family dinner.
Quick to prepare, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.
Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
Can easily be made gluten-free with a simple flour substitute.
Delivers a rich, comforting flavor that warms you from the inside out.
Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.

With options like slow cooker creamy ham potato soup or gluten-free creamy ham potato soup, this dish fits any dietary need while being a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Creamy Ham Potato Soup

Gather these items:

5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion (diced small, about 2/3 cup)
1 stalk celery (diced small)
3 cloves garlic (finely minced)
2 pounds Russet potatoes
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 ½ to 2 cups cooked ham (diced small)
Ham bone (optional)
1 tablespoon Better Than Bouillon
½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnishing)

How to Make Creamy Ham Potato Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large Dutch oven, add the butter, onions, celery, and sauté over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes; stir frequently.
Step 2: Add the garlic, potatoes, and sauté for 1 minute; stir continuously.
Step 3: Evenly sprinkle the flour over top and cook for 1-2 minutes; stir nearly continuously.
Step 4: Add broth, milk, diced ham, ham bone (if using), bouillon, salt, pepper, and parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 5: When potatoes are done, remove ham bone if used. Turn heat to low, add cheese, and stir to combine and melt, about 1 minute.
Step 6: Taste the soup and adjust flavor as necessary.
Step 7: If the soup tastes flat, add more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs to taste. Consider adding red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Step 8: Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese if desired, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Ham Potato Soup

Keep these in mind:

Keep potato pieces no bigger than 1/2-inch dice for even cooking.
For thicker soup, mash some potatoes during simmering.
If soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to achieve desired consistency.
Consider making a one-pot creamy ham potato soup recipe to simplify cleanup.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ham Potato Soup

Here are some serving suggestions:

Top each bowl with additional shredded cheese for extra richness.
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair with a light white wine to enhance the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Ham Potato Soup

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This Creamy Ham Potato Soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ham Potato Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Ham Potato Soup?

The secret lies in developing a rich roux with the flour and butter, which thickens the soup beautifully. Ensuring the potatoes are diced small allows them to cook evenly, creating a velvety texture.

Can I make Creamy Ham Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Ham Potato Soup?

Avoid cutting the potatoes too large, as they may not cook through properly. Also, be cautious with salt, especially if your ham is salty; always taste before adding more.

Variations of Creamy Ham Potato Soup You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize this recipe:

Substitute with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor profile.
Add in seasonal vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
Make it a ham and potato chowder by adding corn and cream for a richer taste.
Use a dairy-free milk and omit cheese for a healthy creamy ham and potato soup alternative.