A Hearty and Flavorful Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Easy, Creamy, and Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

by

When you’re looking for a hearty soup to warm you up during cold weather, this creamy ham and potato soup is a delicious option.

Jump to Recipe

It’s made with simple ingredients like tender russet potatoes, savory ham, and a touch of heavy cream to create a creamy consistency that everyone will love.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to use leftover ham steaks or a meaty ham shank from last night’s dinner.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and easily in a large pot or slow cooker. The flavors meld beautifully as the soup cooks, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with crusty bread or homemade breadsticks, you’ll want to keep this recipe card handy for next time.

A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

On a chilly day, few things are as inviting as a steaming bowl of creamy ham and potato soup. This soup, rich in flavor and texture, combines tender russet potatoes with savory ham, creating a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out.

Using simple ingredients, such as chicken broth and heavy cream, this recipe transforms everyday staples into a comforting meal. The luscious creamy consistency brings satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for cold weather. Each spoonful delivers a gentle warmth, reminiscent of home-cooked goodness.

Ingredients That Shine

The beauty of this creamy ham potato soup lies in its fresh ingredients. Tender diced potatoes serve as the foundation, absorbing the flavors of the broth. Adding savory pieces of ham, whether from leftover ham steaks or a meaty ham hock, elevates the dish with its rich and salty notes.

Incorporating green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the soup’s flavor profile. Olive oil brings richness to the sautéed aromatics, while a sprinkle of black pepper balances the creaminess with just the right amount of heat.

A Simple Cooking Process

Preparation is straightforward, making this soup a wonderful option for busy weeknights. Start by melting butter in a large pot and sautéing onions and garlic over medium heat. This step releases aromatic scents that will make your kitchen feel welcoming.

Once the aromatics are softened, stir in the diced potatoes and ham, allowing the flavors to meld together. Pour in the chicken broth, and let everything simmer until the potatoes are tender. This cooking time typically lasts around 20-25 minutes, resulting in a flavorful base.

See the bottom if you want options for an Instant Pot or Crock-Pot.

Achieving Creaminess

To achieve that creamy texture, use a potato masher to break down some of the potato pieces. This method not only thickens the soup but also creates a comforting consistency that’s enjoyable to savor. The addition of heavy cream at the end brings everything together, giving it a luxurious finish.

For those who prefer a lighter option, substituting whole milk (or non-dairy alternatives that are unsweetened) can work well. However, the heavy cream truly provides that rich, indulgent experience that’s perfect for this dish.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your creamy ham and potato soup, consider pairing it with crusty bread or even homemade breadsticks. The bread complements the soup beautifully, perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

For additional flavor, feel free to top your soup with sharp cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream. Garnishing with fresh green onions adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color, making each bowl visually appealing.

Storage and Leftover Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also practical. If you find yourself with leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for several days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Reheating is simple—just warm it gently on the stove or in a microwave. If you have more leftover ham or vegetables, consider adding them in for a delightful twist on the original recipe next time.

A Hearty and Flavorful Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

A cozy bowl of creamy ham and potato soup garnished with green onions, alongside a slice of crusty bread.

This creamy ham and potato soup is a delightful blend of tender potatoes, salty ham, and aromatic herbs, simmered in chicken broth until rich and flavorful. The addition of fresh green onions and a sprinkle of black pepper enhances its savory taste, making it a delicious soup recipe perfect for soup season.

Ideal for using up leftover ham bone or ham hock, this delicious recipe offers a creamy base that will keep you feeling cozy and satisfied. It’s a straightforward recipe that can easily be adapted with your favorite veggies or Italian seasoning for a new twist.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium russet potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup leftover cooked ham, chopped into small pieces
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup green onions, chopped for garnish
  • Sharp cheddar cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Dice the potatoes and chop the onion and garlic. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Add Ham and Potatoes: Stir in the chopped ham and diced potatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat. Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Blend for Creaminess: Use a potato masher to mash a few potato pieces to thicken the soup, giving it a creamy consistency.
  6. Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese and heat gently for another 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh green onions, and top with more sharp cheddar cheese if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4 bowls
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g

Instant Pot Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

This Instant Pot version of cheesy ham and potato soup is creamy, comforting, and quick to make. The pressure cooker reduces cooking time while keeping all the rich flavors intact.

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Dice the potatoes and chop the onion and garlic. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add Ham and Potatoes: Stir in the chopped ham and diced potatoes. Sauté for another 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode and set to high pressure for 8 minutes.
  6. Quick Release: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.” Remove the lid once all pressure has released.
  7. Thicken the Soup: Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This will help thicken the soup while still keeping some chunks.
  8. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated sharp cheddar cheese. Set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode and stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through (about 3-5 minutes).
  9. Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh green onions and extra sharp cheddar cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes (including pressure build-up)
  • Total Time: 23 minutes

Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

This slow cooker version of cheesy ham and potato soup is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Let it simmer for hours while the ingredients blend into a comforting meal.

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Dice the potatoes and chop the onion and garlic. Set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional): For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 3 minutes until softened. This step adds depth but can be skipped for convenience.
  3. Add to Slow Cooker: Place the diced potatoes, chopped ham, sautéed (or raw) onions and garlic, chicken broth, bay leaves, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on **Low for 6-7 hours** or **High for 3-4 hours**, until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Thicken the Soup: Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the slow cooker. This will help thicken the soup while still leaving some chunks.
  6. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated sharp cheddar cheese. Cover and let cook for another **15-20 minutes** on Low until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is heated through.
  7. Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh green onions and extra sharp cheddar cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours on Low or 3-4 hours on High
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (Low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (High)

This recipe is part of my 119 Hearty Winter Recipes You’ll Love When It Gets Cold. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!

Jeff Campbell
Latest posts by Jeff Campbell (see all)

Leave a Comment