Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a cozy, hearty dish packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly nights or using up leftover ham, this comforting soup is easy to make and full of delicious, satisfying flavors.

ingredients

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

butter
onion (diced)
celery (diced)
carrots (diced)
garlic (minced)
potatoes (peeled and diced)
cooked ham (diced)
chicken broth
milk or half-and-half
flour
salt
pepper
dried thyme (optional)
cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat.

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Stir in the diced ham and milk or half-and-half; heat through without boiling.

Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.

Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

Use leftover turkey or chicken instead of ham.
Add corn or peas for extra sweetness and texture.
Make it cheesy by stirring in a handful of shredded cheddar at the end.
Swap some of the potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store Creamy Ham and Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and flavors deepen after a day.

What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture.

Can I use cream instead of milk?
Yes, for an even richer soup, use heavy cream or half-and-half.

How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Simmer a little longer uncovered, or mash some of the potatoes into the broth.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the vegetables and broth on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the milk and ham before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken for a gluten-free version.

Can I add bacon?
Definitely, crispy bacon bits make a delicious topping.

Can I leave out the carrots and celery?
Yes, but they add nice flavor and texture to the soup.

What herbs pair well with this soup?
Parsley, thyme, and a touch of rosemary work wonderfully.

Is it okay to freeze the soup with milk?
It’s fine, though the texture may change slightly; stir well when reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a delicious way to warm up and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal. Simple to make with everyday ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike.