Easy Ham and Potato Soup for Busy Weeknights

When you think of comfort food, Ham and Potato Soup is one of the first dishes that comes to mind. It’s the kind of soup that wraps you in warmth and makes you feel cozy, no matter the weather outside. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or feeding a hungry family after a long day, this soup is sure to satisfy. Made with simple ingredients and a few easy steps, it’s a recipe that combines the heartiness of ham and potatoes with a rich, creamy texture.

In this article, we’ll explore how to make the ultimate Ham and Potato Soup, with tips for customizing it, ways to make it ahead, and ideas for pairing it with the perfect sides.

What Makes Ham and Potato Soup So Special?

Ham and Potato Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic dish that brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful. It combines the savory goodness of cooked ham, the smoothness of mashed potatoes, and the creamy richness of the broth. Together, these ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors that make this soup a family favorite.

This soup is hearty enough to stand alone but can also be served with a variety of sides for a more filling meal. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter’s evening or need a quick meal that packs a punch of flavor, Ham and Potato Soup is the perfect choice.

Ingredients for Ham and Potato Soup

The beauty of Ham and Potato Soup is in its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find and you likely have most of them in your kitchen already. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need for a traditional version of the soup:

Main Ingredients:

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the most common choice for this soup. Their starchy nature helps to thicken the broth and gives the soup its creamy texture.
• Ham: Cooked, diced ham is the star ingredient, adding a salty and savory flavor that complements the potatoes.
• Celery and Onion: These vegetables add flavor and texture to the soup. They help create the base of the soup’s broth.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the soup and provides the liquid base.
• Butter and Flour: Used to make a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it a rich, creamy texture.
• Milk: Full-fat or any percentage of milk can be used to make the soup creamy. You can also use a dairy-free option for a different twist.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential to enhance the flavor. You can adjust these based on your personal taste.

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup

Making Ham and Potato Soup is easier than you might think. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bowl of comfort food that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Follow the instructions below for a creamy, hearty, and flavorful soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Peel and dice the potatoes into medium-sized cubes.
   • Dice the celery and onions into small pieces.
   • Cube the ham into bite-sized chunks.

2. Cook the Potatoes and Ham: In a large pot, combine the potatoes, ham, celery, onions, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

3. Make the Roux: While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute, or until the mixture turns a golden brown.

4. Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Keep cooking for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.

5. Combine Everything: Pour the flour and milk mixture into the pot with the potatoes and ham. Stir well to combine. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken further.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup reaches your desired consistency, it’s ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, and serve with your favorite bread or crackers.

Tips for Making the Best Ham and Potato Soup

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and ham make all the difference in flavor. While leftovers are great, using freshly cooked ham will enhance the overall taste of the soup.
• Customize with Add-ins: You can add other vegetables like carrots, corn, or peas to make the soup even more hearty. If you like a little heat, add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or coconut milk and substitute the butter with a plant-based oil. You can also use gluten-free flour for the roux to make it completely gluten-free.
• Leftovers: This soup stores well for a couple of days in the refrigerator, so feel free to make a big batch. You can also freeze the soup, but keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change when reheated.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Variations and Customizations

If you want to try something different with your Ham and Potato Soup, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few variations that you can try:

• Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the soup for a rich, cheesy flavor. Stir it in at the end once the soup has thickened.
• Spicy Ham and Potato Soup: Add a little heat by stirring in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. This variation is great for those who enjoy a spicy twist.
• Slow Cooker Version: You can make this soup in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients (except the roux) and cooking on low for 6-8 hours. Add the roux and milk mixture in the last hour of cooking.

Pairing Ham and Potato Soup

While this soup is filling on its own, it can be even better with a few sides. Here are some ideas to pair with Ham and Potato Soup:

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread or a crispy baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup and add a refreshing contrast.
• Cheese Biscuits: Soft, buttery cheese biscuits complement the savory flavor of the soup and make for a satisfying meal.

Ham and Potato Soup Variations and Tips to Enhance the Flavor

When it comes to comfort food, Ham and Potato Soup is one of the most heartwarming dishes you can make. Its simplicity combined with the richness of ham and potatoes makes it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and chilly weekends. However, there are plenty of ways to customize and enhance this soup, turning it into a meal that everyone will rave about.

How to Add Flavor Variations to Ham and Potato Soup

Although the base recipe for Ham and Potato Soup is delicious on its own, there’s always room for a little creativity. Below are some ideas to help you elevate the flavor and texture of your soup:

1. Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

For cheese lovers, adding cheddar cheese to your soup creates a rich, indulgent flavor. Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese right before serving. It will melt into the soup, making it even creamier and adding a deliciously sharp contrast to the savory ham.

• Tip: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for an extra creamy, flavorful base.

2. Spicy Ham and Potato Soup

If you enjoy a little spice, try adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to your soup. This will add a subtle kick and balance the richness of the potatoes and ham.

• Tip: For a smoky flavor, add a bit of chipotle powder or smoked paprika to the soup base.

3. Vegetarian Ham and Potato Soup

If you’re looking to create a vegetarian-friendly version, you can substitute the ham with a plant-based protein like smoked tempeh or tofu. These alternatives will provide a similar smoky flavor without compromising the heartiness of the dish.

• Tip: Add extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for added texture and flavor.

4. Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

For an easy, hands-off approach, make your Ham and Potato Soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except the roux and milk mixture) into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, make the roux and stir in the milk mixture to thicken the soup.

• Tip: If you’re in a hurry, cook the soup on high for 3-4 hours, but low and slow will provide the most flavor.

5. Loaded Ham and Potato Soup

Take your Ham and Potato Soup to the next level by adding toppings like bacon bits, green onions, and sour cream. These toppings will add extra flavor, crunch, and creaminess, making each bite more satisfying.

• Tip: Top your soup with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a complete loaded experience.

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup Ahead of Time

One of the best things about Ham and Potato Soup is that it can be made ahead, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Here’s how you can prepare and store your soup:

Make-Ahead Instructions:

• Preparation: Chop the potatoes, ham, celery, and onions up to two days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save you time when you’re ready to make the soup.
• Cooking: Once the vegetables are prepped, all you need to do is cook them in the broth and make the roux to thicken the soup.
• Storing: You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup (without the milk) for up to 4 months. Be sure to add the milk when reheating.

Freezing Ham and Potato Soup:

While freezing Ham and Potato Soup is an option, the texture of the potatoes may change upon defrosting, making them slightly mushy. To reduce this, freeze the soup without the potatoes and add fresh ones when reheating.

• Tip: To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding fresh milk to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs On Ham and Potato Soup

1. What is in ham and potato soup?

Ham and Potato Soup is typically made with russet potatoes, cooked ham, celery, onions, chicken broth, butter, flour (for thickening), and milk. The potatoes add creaminess, while the ham gives the soup a savory, meaty flavor. It’s seasoned with salt and pepper for taste.

2. What is potato soup made of?

Potato soup is generally made with potatoes, onions, garlic, broth (chicken or vegetable), and milk or cream to give it a creamy texture. Some recipes include bacon, cheese, and herbs for added flavor.

3. How do you thicken ham and potato soup?

To thicken Ham and Potato Soup, you can make a roux by cooking butter and flour together, then adding milk. This mixture is stirred into the soup to create a creamy, thicker texture. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the soup to naturally thicken the broth.

4. How do you make ham broth?

Ham broth is made by simmering ham bones, vegetables (like onions, carrots, and celery), and seasonings (like thyme and bay leaves) in water for several hours. Once the broth is rich and flavorful, strain the solids, and the liquid becomes the ham broth, which can be used in soups or other dishes.

5. Can you freeze ham and potato soup?

Yes, you can freeze Ham and Potato Soup, but keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes might change when reheated. For the best results, freeze the soup without the potatoes and add fresh potatoes when reheating, or use frozen pre-cooked potatoes to maintain texture.

Recipe Card: Ham and Potato Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups (about 2 large) russet potatoes, peeled and diced medium
• 1 1/2 cups (9oz) cooked honey ham, diced medium
• 1/2 cup celery, diced small
• 1/2 cup onion, diced small
• 4 cups (2 15oz cans) chicken broth
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon (44g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (any percentage)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes into medium-sized cubes. Dice the celery and onions into small pieces. Cube the ham into bite-sized chunks.
2. Cook the Potatoes and Ham: In a large pot, combine the potatoes, ham, celery, onions, and chicken broth. Bring to a low boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute until it turns golden. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Combine: Pour the roux mixture into the soup and stir. Add pepper and salt to taste.
5. Serve: Once the soup is thickened and heated through, ladle it into bowls. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Notes:

• For a richer flavor, add cheddar cheese or bacon bits as a topping.
• You can make this soup ahead by preparing the veggies up to two days in advance.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk and use dairy-free butter.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American