Creamy One-Pot Ham and Potato Soup

Leftover ham often graces the local dinner table after holiday gatherings or family feasts, but it can also transform many meals beyond that. The beauty of leftover ham lies in its versatility, and a creamy one-pot ham and potato soup offers a perfect way to make the most of it. As a child, I remember the warmth of making soup with my family, simmering vegetables and meat together while sharing laughter. It felt magical to turn simple ingredients into something comforting and delicious.

This creamy ham and potato soup stands out, showcasing the rich flavor of ham combined with tender potatoes and hearty vegetables. Each bowl brims with a blend of textures and nourishing ingredients. It’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you crave something cozy and satisfying. Whether it comes from your pantry or your fridge, every ingredient works beautifully together.

What makes this soup truly special is its ease and warmth. The act of cooking can create connections, as friends gather around a bubbling pot, exchanging stories while savoring every spoonful. Even if you start with just a few leftovers, you can whip up something magnificent and share that joy with your family.

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Fundamentals

Fundamentals

Crafting a delicious creamy ham and potato soup begins with a solid foundation of ingredients. The harmony of ham, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and chicken broth creates a base packed with flavor. Each component contributes to the overall taste, making every bowl a delightful experience. The key here is to ensure you use fresh vegetables and quality broth for the best results.

Opt for hearty varieties of potatoes, such as russets or Yukon golds. They will hold their shape and add a creamy texture as they cook. The diced ham serves a dual purpose—not only does it lend flavor, but it transforms a mundane soup into a hearty meal. Freshly diced carrots and celery offer a subtle sweetness and crunch, complementing the savory ham beautifully.

Preparation/Setup

Gather your ingredients before diving into the preparation. Ensure you have two cups of diced ham, four cups of peeled and diced potatoes, one cup of diced carrots, one cup of diced celery, one chopped onion, four cups of chicken broth, one cup of heavy cream, a teaspoon of dried thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Take a moment to dice and chop everything to create the perfect preparation setup.

Start with a large pot for this soup, as it allows you to combine everything seamlessly. Heating the olive oil over medium heat creates a base for the sauté. As you cook the onion, carrots, and celery, they’ll release their aromatic flavors and begin the soup-building process. The rich smells blooming in your kitchen will instantly evoke a sense of home and comfort, tempting everyone nearby.

Ingredients

1. 2 cups leftover ham, diced – Use what you have on hand to minimize waste and maximize taste.
2. 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced – Choosing starchy varieties will enhance the soup’s creaminess.
3. 1 cup carrots, diced – Fresh carrots add color and sweetness, balancing the dish.
4. 1 cup celery, diced – Celery brings a delightful crunch and subtle earthiness.
5. 1 onion, chopped – The onion’s richness provides a great flavor foundation.
6. 4 cups chicken broth – A robust stock is essential to deepen the flavor profile.
7. 1 cup heavy cream – This ingredient enriches the soup, making it creamy and luscious.
8. 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme lends warmth and herbal notes.
9. Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
10. 2 tablespoons olive oil – The oil starts the sauté process perfectly.

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the diced ham and potatoes, and cook for a few minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot.

Enhancing Your Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Technique

Perfecting this creamy ham and potato soup often revolves around your cooking technique. Start by ensuring your vegetables are cut uniformly. This method helps them cook evenly, resulting in a harmonious texture throughout the soup. When sautéeing the vegetables, allow them to soften and caramelize slightly without burning. This process deepens the flavor and adds a hint of sweetness.

When simmering the soup, keep an eye on the heat. You want a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to prevent overcooking the potatoes. Cooking them slowly allows them to become tender without breaking apart entirely. This way, you maintain some structure rather than ending up with a mushy texture.

Tips and Tricks

1. Personalize your flavor: Don’t hesitate to tweak the herbs. Fresh herbs, like rosemary or parsley, can lift the soup further.
2. Make it heartier: Add additional vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. They complement the soup well while adding more nutrition.
3. Thin or thicken the soup: If you desire a thinner consistency, add more broth. For a thicker soup, try mashing some potatoes against the side of the pot during cooking to achieve your preferred texture.
4. Storage tips: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

Perfecting Your Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Perfecting Results

Every cook wants their soup to be fabulous, and this creamy ham and potato soup is no exception. Focus on balancing flavors, starting with the broth and enhancing through careful seasoning. Regularly taste as you cook, allowing you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

One way to enhance the creaminess is by whisking the heavy cream in continuously as it simmers. This method ensures even distribution, leading to a silky result. Remember, patience is crucial—allow the soup sufficient time to build flavors before serving.

Troubleshooting and Variations

Even the best cooks encounter challenges, and having a plan can save the day. If your soup ends up too salty, adding a few peeled potatoes can absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, a splash of cream can mellow out an overly seasoned dish.

Some may prefer a spicy kick. Adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes introduces a warm background heat. For a hearty spin, consider incorporating cooked pasta or rice. This modification provides an extra filling component while maintaining the beloved flavor profile.

Serving and Storing Your Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Serving and Presentation

Serving your creamy ham and potato soup can be as delightful as making it. Ladle the soup into cozy bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of cream for a gourmet touch. Warm bread or crusty rolls serve as a perfect side, perfect for dipping. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of paprika or freshly cracked black pepper adds visual appeal and extra flavor.

Don’t shy away from presentation. Arrange the bowls garnished with fresh herbs or even some crispy croutons, giving your guests a pleasing visual before they take their first bite. Ambiance matters; a soothing environment enhances the dining experience.

Pairings and Storage

Ideal pairings for this soup include a vibrant green salad or some roasted vegetables to lighten the meal. A slice of artisan bread will soak up the creamy goodness beautifully.

When it comes to storage, place leftover soup in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors may even deepen, enhancing the experience when you reheat it. If you plan to freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags. It will store well for about three months, ready to be enjoyed at a later date.

Conclusion

Preparing a delicious creamy ham and potato soup encapsulates the idea of turning simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal. The joy of transforming leftovers into something new speaks to the power of cooking. You create more than a recipe; you build connections with those who share the meal. With a little creativity and the right methods, anyone can enjoy this cozy dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, making it a favorite for years to come.

Creamy One-Pot Ham and Potato Soup

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• Author: cov3
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting and creamy ham and potato soup, perfect for using up leftover ham and warming up on chilly nights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups leftover ham, diced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the diced ham and potatoes, and cook for a few minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot.

Notes

For a heartier soup, add additional vegetables like peas or corn. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or mashing some potatoes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: soup, ham, potatoes, creamy, leftovers