Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup Recipe

Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup is the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that wraps you up from the inside out. Creamy Yukon Gold potatoes melt into a velvety broth alongside savory ham, tender veggies, and a pop of fresh herbs. This nourishing one-pot wonder is impossibly comforting and comes together with simple ingredients—yet the flavor runs deep, thanks to a few thoughtful touches. Whether you need a soul-warming dinner or a make-ahead option for busy days, this soup is destined to become a staple at your table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this soup is refreshingly easy: every component is chosen for the way it enhances the final flavor, creates that signature creamy texture, or brings color to the bowl. These pantry and fridge staples truly shine when they come together.

• Yukon Gold potatoes: Their naturally buttery and creamy qualities give the soup a luscious texture and a golden glow.
• Cooked ham: Use leftover holiday ham or a good-quality deli ham, diced for perfect salty richness in every bite.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth to the base, mingling with the potatoes to develop savory flavor.
• Carrots: Bring gentle sweetness and subtle color contrast—slice them into coins or dice for variety.
• Celery: Lends grassy freshness and a bit of crunch before simmering until tender.
• Garlic: Just a couple of cloves, minced, to brighten every spoonful with its aromatic punch.
• Chicken broth: Use a high-quality stock for a robust, savory foundation for the soup.
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half): For a decadent finish, this swirls in at the end for silky smoothness.
• Butter: Sautées the aromatics and imparts richness right from the start.
• Fresh thyme: Earthy and herbal, it lifts the flavors and pairs beautifully with ham and potatoes.
• Bay leaf: Provides subtle background complexity to the broth—don’t forget to remove before serving!
• Salt & pepper: Season generously to draw out the layers of flavor in the soup.

How to Make Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by melting butter in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. Sprinkle in the minced garlic and sauté for one minute more, just until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown.

Step 2: Build the Base

Stir in the diced Yukon Gold potatoes and ham, tossing well to combine everything. Pour the chicken broth over the top and add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. As soon as bubbles form on the sides, reduce the heat; you want the potatoes to cook slowly and evenly, soaking up all the savory flavor from the ham and aromatics.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pot and let everything simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender—usually 15-20 minutes, depending on how big you diced your spuds. Give the soup an occasional gentle stir to prevent sticking and make sure every chunk soaks up those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Finish with Cream

When the potatoes are soft, fish out the bay leaf. Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half if you prefer a lighter touch), and stir gently. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, just until everything is heated through and the broth is deliciously creamy. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed—remember, ham varies in saltiness, so start slow and build up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the piping hot Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup into bowls, top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley, and get ready to enjoy pure comfort! The combination of velvety potatoes, soul-warming broth, and savory ham makes this one tough to resist.

How to Serve Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Garnishes

Add the final flourish with toppings like extra chopped ham, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, minced chives, or a dollop of sour cream. A handful of freshly cracked black pepper and a scattering of fresh herbs takes the Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup from rustic to restaurant-worthy in a heartbeat.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with a hunk of warm crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a fluffy homemade biscuit. A crisp green salad dressed simply with vinaigrette cuts through the rich soup and balances the meal. If you’re feeling extra cozy, go for a grilled cheese sandwich (classic or with a twist!) to dunk alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls—guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Or, offer a soup bar with a variety of toppings set out so everyone can garnish their own bowl. For a dinner party, ladle the Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup into small mugs as a comforting appetizer that will make everyone feel at home from the very first course.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover soup cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. Pop them in the fridge and the soup will keep well for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more irresistible for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

The Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup can be frozen, though the creamy consistency may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding cream. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove and stir in the cream at the end for optimal texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat soup on the stovetop over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If it seems too thick after chilling, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen. For single servings, use the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating—you’ll be back to that warm, velvety goodness in no time.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yukon Golds are prized for their creamy texture, but russet or red potatoes are fine substitutes. Just know that russets will yield a slightly fluffier texture, while red potatoes will be a bit firmer in the final soup.

Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or your favorite unsweetened non-dairy creamer. The soup will still be creamy and delicious, especially if you puree a portion of the cooked potatoes before adding your plant milk.

Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the aromatics first (either on the stovetop or in your slow cooker if it has a sauté function), then transfer all ingredients except cream to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in cream just before serving.

How do I make this soup thicker?

If you like your Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup extra thick, use a potato masher to partially mash the potatoes directly in the pot, or puree a portion with an immersion blender before adding the cream. This will give you rich, comforting body without extra starches or thickeners.

What herbs work well besides thyme?

Fresh parsley, dill, or chives all pair beautifully with the potato and ham combo. You could also try a bit of rosemary for an earthier flavor, but stick to fresh or use a pinch of dried so it doesn’t overpower the soup.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a bowlful of comfort that’s easy enough for a weeknight but satisfying enough to share, don’t hesitate to make Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup. With its heartwarming flavor and cozy, creamy texture, each spoonful feels like a hug. Give it a try this season and see why it’s a perennial favorite at my table—your own loved ones just might start requesting it by name!

Print