Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty, satisfying meal. Loaded with tender potatoes, savory chunks of ham, and vegetables in a rich, creamy broth, this soup delivers both flavor and warmth in every spoonful. It’s an easy one-pot recipe that the whole family will enjoy, whether served as a main dish or alongside crusty bread.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

russet potatoescooked hamsalted butterschopped onionscelerycarrotsgarlicclourchicken brothwhole milkheavy creamdried thymebay leafsalt and pepper

directions

Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes and set aside.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.

Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth and no lumps remain.

Add the diced potatoes, ham, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.

Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.

Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or leave chunky for a rustic feel.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Swap the ham for cooked bacon or sausage for a different savory profile.

Add corn kernels or peas for extra texture and sweetness.

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.

Add a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use leftover ham?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover holiday ham.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.

How do I thicken the soup more?

Add a cornstarch slurry or more flour to reach your desired thickness.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add milk and cream near the end.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make it so.

Should I peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional, depending on your texture preference.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Stir well after thawing.

What bread pairs well with this soup?

Crusty French bread, sourdough, or garlic bread are great choices.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and flavors develop even more overnight.

Conclusion

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a cozy, filling dish that’s easy to prepare and full of homestyle flavor. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting from scratch, this recipe provides a rich, velvety bowl of comfort that’s sure to warm you from the inside out. Ideal for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals, it’s a satisfying choice you’ll come back to again and again.