Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup Recipe

When it comes to soul-soothing, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, nothing compares to a bowl of Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup. Creamy, velvety potatoes, tender chunks of smoky ham, and a bouquet of garden-fresh vegetables all simmer together in this beautifully filling soup. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a big culinary hug, with its satisfyingly rich flavors and a gentle sweetness from Yukon Gold potatoes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd after a chilly day or just craving a taste of homemade goodness, this soup delivers on all fronts—hearty, wholesome, and truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this soup is purposely chosen for maximum impact on both flavor and texture. Using simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh items, you’ll be amazed at how such humble elements can come together to make one incredible, robust bowl.

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor make them the star of the show—no other potato works quite like them here!
• Diced Ham: Smoked or leftover holiday ham brings meaty depth and a gentle savory note—perfect for transforming the broth into something seriously craveable.
• Carrots: Sliced thin for sweetness and color; their tender bite balances the richness of the ham.
• Celery: Adds a subtle crispness and that essential “soup” aroma—don’t skip!
• Onion: A diced onion provides the flavor base for the entire pot; sautéing it first unlocks natural sweetness.
• Garlic: Just a couple of cloves cooked briefly with the onion add depth and a gentle warmth.
• Chicken Broth: The foundation for all the flavors—use homemade if you have it, or your favorite store-bought version for ease.
• Milk or Half-and-Half: Adds richness and mellows the soup, taking it from good to totally irresistible.
• Butter: Used to sauté the veggies, contributing a round, luscious note throughout.
• Flour: This creates a light roux, thickening the soup into the ultimate creamy texture.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, letting all the flavors shine; taste and adjust as you cook.
• Dried Thyme: Just a pinch infuses the soup with subtle herbal freshness.
• Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped and added at the end for color and a burst of brightness.

How to Make Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by melting butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring every so often, until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables start to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for just a minute more—your kitchen will already smell incredible, which is always a great sign!

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat everything. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the flour to lose its raw taste, which will help thicken your Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup to perfection later on.

Step 3: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring vigorously to avoid any lumps. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor. Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and dried thyme, then season with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Stir in the Ham and Milk

Once the potatoes are cooked, add your diced ham to the pot. Pour in the milk or half-and-half (whichever you prefer) and simmer gently for another 5 minutes. This is where the soup develops its creamy, dreamy finish and the flavors start to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Adjust and Finish

Taste your Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped parsley for color and a lovely herbal lift. If you like your soup extra thick, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot. Now grab a ladle and serve up some happiness!

How to Serve Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Garnishes

For an impressive yet simple touch, top each bowl with a handful of freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. If you want to get a little fancy, a few shreds of sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy, tangy contrast to the warmth of the soup.

Side Dishes

This soup practically begs to be partnered with crusty bread—think sourdough, a rustic baguette, or buttery biscuits. Consider a crisp green salad on the side for freshness, or even a classic grilled cheese sandwich if you’re feeding an especially hungry crew.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup in bread bowls for a show-stopping, edible vessel that soaks up every last spoonful. Or, ladle it into oven-safe crocks, top with shredded cheese, and broil briefly for a gooey, golden top. For parties, consider shot-sized servings as a cozy starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—just the thing for quick lunches or a no-effort dinner later in the week. Stir before reheating, as the ingredients may settle or thicken in the fridge.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup! Let it cool completely, then ladle into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat a full batch gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring regularly. If the soup seems extra thick after chilling, just add a splash of broth or milk to bring it back to creamy perfection.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

While you can substitute russet or red potatoes if needed, Yukon Golds are ideal for their naturally creamy texture and rich flavor, making the Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup extra special.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the ham, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and consider adding a can of white beans or smoked paprika for a bit of savory depth.

What’s the best ham to use?

Leftover holiday ham works perfectly, but any good-quality smoked ham or thick-cut ham steak sliced into cubes is great. Avoid overly sweet or honey-glazed hams for a balanced flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Corn, green beans, or peas are all fantastic additions. Just add them with the potatoes so they have enough time to cook through and lend their flavor to the soup.

How can I make the soup extra creamy?

If you love an ultra-creamy texture, use half-and-half instead of milk, or blend a portion of the soup until smooth (or mash some potatoes in the pot) before finishing with your diced ham.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a bowl of pure comfort that delivers on both flavor and satisfaction, it’s time to get your pot simmering with Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table—warm, full, and happy. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new staple in your kitchen!

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