Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty, homemade soup, and this Ham and Potato Soup recipe is no exception. It's the perfect blend of savory ham, tender potatoes, and flavorful vegetables, cooked to perfection in a rich broth. Whether you're looking for a filling dinner on a chilly night or a comforting lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Keep reading to discover how you can make this delicious dish, from preparing the ingredients to serving tips and variations!
What is Ham and Potato Soup?
Ham and Potato Soup is a classic comfort dish that features chunks of tender ham and potatoes, simmered together with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in a savory broth. This soup is rich, filling, and has a smoky flavor thanks to the smoked ham, which pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the potatoes. It's an easy-to-make recipe that's perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or even a cozy night in by yourself.
Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup
To create this comforting bowl of goodness, here are the essential ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 large carrot: Peeled and chopped. Carrots add sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 sticks celery: Finely chopped. Celery brings a subtle earthiness and crunch.
- ½ medium onion: Chopped. Onion adds a depth of flavor that enhances the broth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is for sautéing the vegetables, giving them a smooth, rich base.
- 1 pound (approx.) smoked ham: Cut into small pieces. The smoked ham provides a salty, smoky flavor that defines the soup.
- 2.5 pounds Russet potatoes: Peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces. Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they break down slightly during cooking, giving the soup a creamy texture.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced. Garlic infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to bring a touch of herbal freshness.
- 4 cups chicken broth: This serves as the main liquid base for the soup, providing a savory foundation.
- 2 cups water: Helps thin out the broth without overpowering the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These seasonings balance and enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Substitutions and Variations
This Ham and Potato Soup recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking or based on what you have on hand. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the smoked ham with a plant-based smoked sausage or skip the meat altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.
- Different Potatoes: Instead of Russet potatoes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes will give a creamier texture, while red potatoes will hold their shape better.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like leeks, peas, corn, or green beans. These additions will boost the nutritional value and give the soup more color and flavor.
- Creamy Ham and Potato Soup: For an even creamier version, you can stir in some heavy cream or whole milk toward the end of cooking.
- Spicy Variation: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes, or use smoked paprika to give the soup a smoky-spicy kick.
- Bacon Ham and Potato Soup: Crispy bacon bits can be added for extra smokiness and crunch. Simply cook the bacon separately and sprinkle it over the soup before serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this Ham and Potato Soup is simple, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a flawless result.

- Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling and chopping your carrot, finely chopping the celery, and chopping half an onion. Set them aside.
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped carrot, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add Garlic and Ham: Stir in the minced garlic and smoked ham pieces. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the ham to release its flavor into the mixture.
- Add the Potatoes and Seasoning: Add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour in the Broth and Water: Add 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference. If you'd like a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes using a potato masher or immersion blender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and ladle it into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
This is an overview of the entire cooking process to ensure that your Ham and Potato Soup turns out perfect every time:
- Sauté Vegetables: Begin by sautéing carrots, celery, and onion in olive oil until soft.
- Cook Ham and Garlic: Add minced garlic and smoked ham, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Potatoes and Seasoning: Stir in potatoes and season with Italian seasoning.
- Simmer with Broth and Water: Pour in the chicken broth and water, simmering until the potatoes are soft.
- Final Touches: Season with salt and pepper, and mash some potatoes for a thicker consistency if desired.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Vegetables: If you sauté the vegetables for too long, they may become mushy in the soup. Cook them until just tender.
- Not Cutting Potatoes Evenly: Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. A well-seasoned soup makes all the difference.
- Boiling Instead of Simmering: Once you've added the broth and water, reduce the heat to a simmer. Boiling the soup too vigorously can cause the potatoes to fall apart and result in a less desirable texture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you present your Ham and Potato Soup can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top of each bowl for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the perfect companion to this hearty soup.
- Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A spoonful of sour cream swirled into the soup adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- Top with Cheese: Grated cheddar, Parmesan, or even Gruyere can add a layer of richness and flavor.
How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup
Ham and Potato Soup is best served warm, straight from the pot. For a cozy dinner, pair it with a side salad, crusty bread, or even a light sandwich. For a heartier meal, you can serve the soup in bread bowls, which add an extra layer of comfort and fun to the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup
For a beautiful presentation, try the following ideas:
- Bread Bowls: Hollow out small, round loaves of bread and serve the soup inside.
- Mason Jars: Serve the soup in mason jars for a rustic, homestyle touch.
- Garnish Generously: Top the soup with crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, or a swirl of cream for added visual appeal.
Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Freezing: Ham and Potato Soup freezes well. Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thickening the Soup: For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Leftover ham from a holiday meal works perfectly in this soup.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Simply sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: This soup is naturally dairy-free, but if you're adding cream or cheese, be sure to use dairy-free alternatives.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Ham and Potato Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, offering rich flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying meal for any occasion. It's easy to prepare, full of nutritious ingredients, and customizable to your preferences. Whether you're feeding a family or enjoying a bowl solo, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Give it a try today, and don't forget to share it with your loved ones!
PrintHam And Potato Soup Recipe
This Ham and Potato Soup recipe features tender Russet potatoes, smoky ham, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. A perfect comfort food for chilly days. Simple to prepare, it uses staple ingredients like ham, potatoes, and chicken broth for a savory, hearty meal. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it's sure to warm you up and satisfy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 large carrot, peeled & chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (approx.) smoked ham, cut into small pieces
- 2.5 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled & cut into 1" pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in the ham, potatoes, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, and water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mash some of the potatoes to thicken the soup, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more Italian herbs or garlic.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1050mg
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