Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, then this Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s rich, velvety, and packed with hearty chunks of potatoes and ham that add just the right savory punch. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients came together to create something so cozy and satisfying.

What makes this Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe really special is that it’s perfect for weeknights when you want a warm meal without fuss. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham! You’ll find that once you get a taste, this soup will become a go-to that your whole family will ask for again and again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This soup shines because the ingredients work so well together to balance creaminess, savory ham, and tender potatoes. Grab fresh veggies and good quality ham to really nail the flavors!

• Potatoes: I prefer starchy potatoes like Russets because they break down a little to thicken the soup naturally, adding body.
• Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness that cuts through the richness.
• Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness that melds perfectly with the creamy broth.
• Cooked ham: Use leftover baked ham or diced ham steak – it brings in smoky, salty goodness.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: I always recommend low sodium so you can control the salt level yourself.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste; fresh cracked pepper gives a nice kick.
• Butter: Essential for making the roux which creates that luscious, creamy base.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup, but remember to cook it just enough before adding milk to avoid floury taste.
• Whole milk: For creaminess, though you can swap with 2% milk if needed; I find whole milk gives the best texture.

Variations

I love how versatile this creamy ham and potato soup recipe is—there’s plenty of room to make it your own. Over time, I’ve experimented with adding different flavors and swapping ingredients based on what’s on hand or dietary needs.

• Vegetarian Variation: I once replaced ham with smoked mushrooms and a splash of soy sauce for that smoky depth; it was surprisingly satisfying.
• Cheese Twist: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère at the end to boost richness—I do this when hosting friends and it’s always a hit.
• Low-fat Option: Swap butter with olive oil and use skim milk, though the texture won’t be quite as silky, it’s still delicious.
• Spice it Up: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives a nice warm kick without overwhelming the flavors—my husband loves this touch.

How to Make Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build the Soup Base

Start by combining your peeled and diced potatoes, celery, finely chopped onion, diced cooked ham, and chicken broth in a large pot. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender—this usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it so the potatoes don’t overcook and turn mushy; you want them soft but still holding shape.

Step 2: Make the Roux

While the veggies and ham cook, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium-low heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour using a fork or small whisk, and cook, stirring constantly, for about one minute. This step is key to get rid of that raw flour taste and help your soup thicken beautifully later. If you skip or undercook this, you might notice a pasty flavor.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Thicken

Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring over medium-low heat until the mixture thickens, usually between 3 to 4 minutes. This creamy mixture is what makes the soup so decadent, so patience here really pays off.

Step 4: Combine and Finish the Soup

Pour the thickened milk mixture into your pot with the cooked potatoes and ham. Stir everything together well and heat through gently. This is when you want to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and either ground white or black pepper. If the soup feels too thick, pour in a little more milk or broth until you get your desired consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my bowls with shredded sharp cheddar cheese—it melts right into that creamy goodness. Fresh chives add a pop of color and a mild onion bite that brightens the soup. If you’re feeling indulgent, crispy bacon bits take it to the next level and add wonderful crunch.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. Sometimes, I throw together a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced and fresh. For something heartier, garlic bread or cheesy biscuits are a crowd-pleasing side.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I serve this soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls—it looks impressive and makes the meal feel cozy and fun. Another favorite trick is layering the soup with toppings like cheddar and chives just before serving so each person can customize their bowl. You could even sprinkle with smoked paprika or a swirl of sour cream for flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge and they keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, so sometimes I make it the day before for even better taste. Just stir well before reheating as some ingredients may settle.

Freezing

This soup freezes reasonably well, though cream-based soups can sometimes separate after thawing. I freeze portions in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge. A gentle reheat with occasional stirring helps restore the creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. If it’s too thick, adding a splash of milk or broth helps loosen it up without losing the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving if possible, since slow reheating results in better texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe turns out every time—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s straightforward enough to whip up on a weeknight but rich and comforting enough to impress family or guests. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe whenever you crave something cozy, filling, and delicious. Don’t hesitate—go ahead and make this soup your new favorite comfort food!

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