Ham and Potato Soup Recipe: The Ultimate Leftover Ham Comfort Food

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Do you find yourself with a substantial amount of leftover ham after a holiday feast like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas? You’ve enjoyed it as part of the main course and perhaps for a few subsequent meals, but now the side dishes are gone, and you’re faced with a significant portion of ham still residing in your refrigerator. The thought of eating more ham sandwiches might not be appealing, and you’re searching for a creative way to utilize this flavorful protein. If this scenario resonates with you, I have the perfect solution: Ham and Potato Soup. This hearty soup is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious, offering an ideal way to transform leftover holiday ham into a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ham and Potato Soup is a classic for a reason. The creamy texture, savory ham, and tender potatoes create a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist. It’s a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for cooler weather or any time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste and make the most of your holiday leftovers.

This recipe is designed to be adaptable. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. You can add other vegetables like corn or peas, or experiment with different types of cheese for topping. The possibilities are endless!

Ham and Potato Soup Ingredients

One of the best things about Ham and Potato Soup is that it requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. If you’re a regular cook, you likely have most of these items in your pantry or refrigerator already. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to create this delightful soup:

• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the soup base.
• Yellow Onion: Provides a savory foundation for the soup.
• Celery: Contributes a subtle, fresh flavor.
• Carrots: Add sweetness and color to the soup.
• Potatoes: The star of the show, providing heartiness and texture. Yukon gold or Russet potatoes work well.
• Minced Garlic: Infuses the soup with its pungent aroma.
• Cooked Ham: The leftover holiday ham, diced into bite-sized pieces.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
• Chicken Broth: The liquid base of the soup, adding depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the soup to your liking.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and richness. You can also use half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer soup.
• Shredded Cheese (Optional): A delicious topping that adds flavor and texture. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses work well.

Consider these ingredient variations to tailor the soup to your taste:

• Smoked Ham: Use smoked ham for a deeper, smokier flavor.
• Different Potatoes: Experiment with red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
• Vegetable Broth: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor complexity.

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions

This Ham and Potato Soup recipe is incredibly straightforward and perfect for those days when you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s especially convenient after preparing elaborate holiday feasts, providing a delicious way to use up leftovers with minimal effort.

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you create this comforting soup:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Begin by heating olive oil and butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these vegetables for approximately 5-6 minutes, or until they start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and don’t burn.
2. Add Potatoes, Garlic, and Ham: Next, add the cubed potatoes, minced garlic, and diced ham to the pot. Stir the ingredients together to combine them. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma and the potatoes to begin to soften slightly.
3. Thicken the Soup: To create a creamy texture, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and ham in the pot. Stir continuously for about a minute, ensuring the flour coats all the ingredients. This process creates a roux, which will thicken the soup as it cooks. Allow the flour to turn a golden color, which will add a nutty flavor to the soup.
4. Add Chicken Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly. This is a crucial step to prevent lumps from forming. Adding the broth slowly allows the flour to properly incorporate and create a smooth, creamy base. Continue stirring until the broth is fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
5. Season and Simmer: Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 8-13 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This ensures the potatoes are cooked through and have a creamy texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Milk: Once the potatoes are cooked, turn the heat to low and slowly stir in the whole milk. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the milk, as this can cause it to curdle. Heat the soup gently until it is warmed through.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade Ham and Potato Soup.

This simple process transforms everyday ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch.

Here are some additional tips for perfect results:

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and detract from the soup’s texture.
• Use High-Quality Broth: The flavor of the broth significantly impacts the overall taste of the soup. Choose a good quality chicken or vegetable broth.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed.

This recipe is adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences. You can use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free, or substitute dairy-free milk to make it dairy-free. With a few simple tweaks, everyone can enjoy this delicious and comforting soup.

More Delicious Ham Recipes

If you’re looking for more creative ways to use up leftover ham, here are a few more recipes to inspire you:

Cheesy Ham and Noodle Casserole: A comforting and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.

Slow Cooker Ham and Biscuit Casserole: An easy and delicious casserole made in the slow cooker, topped with flaky biscuits.

Egg and Ham Breakfast Enchiladas: A savory and satisfying breakfast option that’s perfect for brunch.

4 from 8 votes

Ham and Potato Soup

By:

Julia Pacheco

Ham and potato soup is rich, creamy, and loaded with hearty potatoes and savory ham—perfect for chilly nights or leftover ham.

Prep:

10 minutes
mins

Cook:

20 minutes
mins

Total:

30 minutes
mins

Servings:

4
servings

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