If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that warms you from the inside out, look no further than this Ham and Potato Soup Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender ham, creamy potatoes, and subtle celery undertones that come together in a luscious soup guaranteed to become one of your go-to comfort foods. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a cozy bowl of deliciousness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the richness of salted butter to the creamy touch of half-and-half, every item in this recipe brings something special to the pot.
- Salted butter (3 tablespoons): Gives the soup a velvety base with just the right amount of richness.
- Cubed ham (1 pound): This is the star ingredient, lending smoky, savory depth that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Sliced carrots (1 cup): Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Minced garlic (1 tablespoon): Boosts flavor with aromatic warmth and earthiness.
- Russet potatoes (3, peeled and cubed): These give the soup its creamy body and satisfying heartiness.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth (2 cups): Keeps the soup light while infusing it with subtle vegetable notes.
- Cream of celery soup (10 ounces): Creates a smooth, comforting texture and enhances the celery flavor.
- Half-and-half (1 cup, room temperature): Adds luscious creaminess without overpowering the other flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional): Perfect for a little spice and peppery aroma at the end.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness and beautiful green color to the finished soup.
How to Make Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté
Begin by melting the salted butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. This sets the stage for wonderful flavor, creating a rich base that will carry the other ingredients through the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Ham, Carrots, and Garlic
Next, add the cubed ham, sliced carrots, and minced garlic into the pot. Let them cook together for 3 to 5 minutes. This step lets the garlic and ham release their lovely aromas, while the carrots start to soften and bring slight sweetness to the mix.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Broth, and Cream of Celery Soup
Carefully stir in the cubed potatoes, low-sodium vegetable broth, and the cream of celery soup. Mix thoroughly until smooth, ensuring the ingredients are evenly combined so every spoonful will be consistently delicious.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring your soup to a low boil and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Don’t forget to stir frequently to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This simmering step is crucial to meld the flavors perfectly.
Step 5: Stir in Half-and-Half
Remove the soup from heat and gently stir in the half-and-half while it’s still warm. This final addition adds a luxurious creaminess that makes the soup irresistibly smooth and silky on the palate.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Garnished
Your Ham and Potato Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy. Ladle it into bowls and add your preferred garnishes like black pepper and chopped fresh parsley for that polished finishing touch.
How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this soup beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds subtle heat, while chopped parsley brings a fresh, vibrant note and a pop of color. Feel free to add a few croutons for some crunch or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic breads like a crusty baguette or warm cornbread, perfect for soaking up every last bit. A crisp green salad can complement the richness and brighten the meal, creating a balanced dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve this Ham and Potato Soup Recipe in charming ramekins or mini soup crocks to impress your guests. You can also top it with shredded cheese melted under a broiler for a decadent twist, turning it into a hearty baked soup casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ham and Potato Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a longer period, this soup freezes very well. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. When properly stored, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. This method preserves the creamy texture and keeps the flavors vibrant without separating. Add a splash of half-and-half or broth if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ham for this soup?
Absolutely! Whether it’s leftover holiday ham, smoked ham, or even diced ham steak, any kind of ham will add that delicious savory flavor. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
Is there a substitute for cream of celery soup?
You can substitute cream of celery soup with a homemade béchamel sauce flavored with celery seeds or finely chopped celery sautéed in butter. This will keep it just as creamy and flavorful without relying on canned soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. To add protein, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu to give a similar savory depth.
What kind of potatoes work best in this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal here because they break down nicely and thicken the soup, creating that perfect creamy texture. If you prefer chunkier potatoes, Yukon Golds are a great alternative.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the ham, carrots, and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the potatoes, broth, and cream of celery soup. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until the vegetables are tender. Stir in half-and-half just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Potato Soup Recipe is truly a classic comfort food that’s both simple to make and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or feeding a crowd, it never fails to please. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s one of my all-time favorite, cozy dinner choices!
