Creamy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe

This creamy ham potato soup recipe is the kind of cozy meal that fits right into a busy weeknight or a slow Sunday at home. It comes together in about 55 minutes, uses simple pantry staples, and gives you a rich, filling bowl of comfort without a lot of fuss. If you already have leftover ham in the fridge, this recipe is an easy way to turn it into something warm and satisfying.

• Easy to make: The steps are simple, and the soup builds flavor in one pot. You only need basic chopping, a quick roux, and a short simmer.
• Comforting and filling: With potatoes, ham, broth, milk, and cheese, this soup has plenty of protein and hearty texture for a full meal.
• Great for leftovers: It is one of the best leftover ham potato soup ideas for holidays, meal prep, or a quick family dinner.
• Big flavor, simple ingredients: Dijon mustard, thyme, and cheddar bring savory depth without making the recipe complicated.

For home cooks who want something warm, creamy, and dependable, this creamy ham and potato soup recipe delivers comfort in every spoonful.

It also works well for families, students, and working professionals who want a dinner that feels homemade but does not take all evening. If you enjoy cozy meals like loaded baked potato chicken casserole or Ritz cracker chicken casserole, this soup will feel right at home on your table.

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe

Here is everything you need for this creamy ham potato soup recipe. Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor, texture, and that rich, comforting finish.

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter – Adds rich flavor and helps soften the vegetables.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Keeps the butter from browning too quickly and helps the vegetables cook evenly.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 3/4 cup) – Builds the savory base of the soup.
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced (about 1/2 cup) – Adds light sweetness and color.
• 1 rib celery, diced (about 1/2 cup) – Brings a gentle fresh flavor to the broth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds warmth and depth.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps make the roux that thickens the soup.
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth – Creates the soup base and keeps the salt level easy to manage.
• 3 cups peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes, 1 1/4 lbs before peeling) – Give the soup its creamy, hearty texture.
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced or shredded – Adds smoky, savory flavor and makes the soup filling.
• 1 ham bone or ham hock – Optional, but it adds extra richness and a deeper ham flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Optional, but it adds savory depth without taking over the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Gives the soup a classic cozy herb flavor.
• 1 cup whole milk – Adds creaminess without making the soup too heavy.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – Makes the soup silky and smooth.
• 1 to 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Whisked into the dairy to help thicken the soup gently.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Brings all the flavors together.
• 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts in at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish – Optional, but it adds color and freshness.

Special Dietary Options

• Vegan: Use plant-based butter, olive oil, vegetable broth, dairy-free milk, vegan cream, and vegan cheddar. Replace ham with smoked tofu, mushrooms, or chickpeas.
• Gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or use extra cornstarch as the thickener.
• Low-calorie: Use more broth, less cream, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also keep the potato portion moderate and add extra celery or carrots.

How to Prepare the Perfect Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Build the flavor base

Set a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil, and let them melt together. Once the mixture is hot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the vegetables soften and smell sweet.

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it because garlic can burn fast. You want it fragrant, not browned. This first step is what gives the creamy ham potato soup recipe its cozy homemade taste.

Second Step: Make the roux

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes so the flour coats everything and cooks out its raw taste. This simple roux helps thicken the soup later and gives the broth a smoother texture.

At this point, the mixture may look a little pasty, and that is completely normal. Just keep stirring so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. A well-cooked roux is one of the secrets behind a good ham potato soup.

Third Step: Add broth, potatoes, and ham

Slowly pour in the 4 cups low sodium chicken broth, stirring as you go so the mixture stays smooth. Once the broth is fully combined, add the peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes, cooked ham, optional ham bone or ham hock, Dijon mustard if using, and dried thyme.

Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. If you are using a ham bone, the soup will pick up even more flavor as it simmers. This is also a good moment to taste the broth and see how much salt you may need later.

Fourth Step: Add the creamy mixture

Turn the heat down to low and remove the ham bone if you used one. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream or half-and-half, and 1 to 2 tablespoons cornstarch until the mixture is smooth. This helps prevent lumps and gives the soup a silky body.

Slowly stir the dairy mixture into the pot. Keep the heat low so the soup does not boil after the milk and cream are added. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Stir often so the dairy stays smooth and does not separate. This is the step that turns the recipe from a simple ham soup recipe into a truly creamy one.

Fifth Step: Add the cheese and final seasoning

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and the soup turns smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Since the ham and broth already bring salt, it is best to season slowly.

If you like a little extra richness, this is where the cheese really makes the bowl feel complete. It ties the potatoes, ham, broth, and herbs together in a way that feels classic and comforting.

Final Step: Serve hot and enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls while it is hot. Top with chopped fresh parsley if you want a little color and freshness. A slice of crusty bread on the side works beautifully for dipping, and it turns this into a full, satisfying meal.

For the best texture, keep the heat low once the dairy goes in. A gentle simmer helps the soup stay smooth and creamy.

Each serving gives you a hearty bowl with about 348 calories, 24 grams of carbohydrates, 16 grams of protein, and 22 grams of fat. With 6 servings total, it is a smart choice for family dinner or meal prep when you want something filling but still easy to put together.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you do not have ham, you still have options. Leftover turkey, cooked chicken, or smoked sausage can all work in place of ham. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and use mushrooms, white beans, or smoked tofu for a more savory bite.

If you are making this for a mixed group, you can also leave the ham out of part of the batch and add it only to individual bowls. That makes the soup more flexible for different tastes at the same table.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice, but red potatoes can work if you want a firmer bite. Russets are fine too, though they break down more easily. If you want a lighter soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or cut back slightly on the cheese.

You can also add corn, peas, or extra celery for more texture. If you want a slightly sharper flavor, add a touch more Dijon mustard. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened plant milk and a creamy non-dairy substitute, then finish with dairy-free cheese if you like. If you enjoy cozy comfort food, this soup pairs nicely with recipes like chicken pot pie pasta for a week of hearty meals.

Mastering Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you have made this soup once or twice, a few small changes can help you make it even better. These tips are especially helpful for busy cooks who want reliable results every time.

Pro cooking techniques

Use a heavy-bottomed pot so the soup heats evenly and does not scorch. Stir the roux well before adding the broth, because this helps prevent lumps. When you add the dairy, keep the heat low and do not let the soup boil. That simple habit helps prevent curdling and keeps the texture smooth.

If you want a thicker finish, let the soup simmer a few extra minutes after adding the dairy. If you want it thinner, add a splash more broth or milk at the end. The cornstarch helps the soup thicken gently, so start with 1 tablespoon and add the second only if needed.

Flavor variations

For a smoky version, add a little extra ham and use a ham hock if you have one. For a sharper flavor, use a bit more cheddar or add a small pinch of paprika. You can also top each bowl with crispy bacon bits or extra parsley for a little color and crunch.

If you want to turn it into a more filling dinner, serve it with a side salad or a warm sandwich. It also fits nicely into a comfort food menu alongside dishes such as classic goulash recipe.

Presentation tips

Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle parsley on top just before serving. A few shreds of cheddar on the surface look nice too. If you are serving guests, add crusty bread or biscuits on the side for a simple, homey touch.

Make-ahead options

You can chop the onion, carrot, celery, potatoes, and ham ahead of time to save time later. The soup is also a smart use for holiday leftovers, especially when you need a quick meal after a big family gathering. Just remember that this recipe tastes best fresh, or within a short time after cooking.

How to Store Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe: Best Practices

Store leftovers in an airtight container once the soup has cooled a bit. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the soup contains dairy and potatoes, it is best enjoyed soon after cooking for the nicest texture.

Freezing is not ideal for this soup, since the potatoes can get grainy and the dairy may separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, cool it completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and use it within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat, stirring often. If the soup seems too thick, add a small splash of milk or broth. This keeps the texture smoother and helps prevent separation. For meal prep, portion the soup into single-serving containers so lunches and quick dinners are easy to grab.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe

Creamy Ham Potato Soup Recipe

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

🥣 Cozy up with velvety creamy ham and potato soup that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in under an hour.
🍲 Perfect for using leftover ham, packed with veggies and cheese for ultimate comfort on cold days!

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Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon butter

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 3/4 cup)

– 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced (about 1/2 cup)

– 1 rib celery, diced (about 1/2 cup)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

– 4 cups low sodium chicken broth

– 3 cups peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes, 1 1/4 lbs before peeling)

– 2 cups cooked ham, diced or shredded

– 1 ham bone or ham hock

– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 cup whole milk

– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

– 1 to 2 tablespoons cornstarch

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1-First Step: Build the flavor base Set a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil, and let them melt together. Once the mixture is hot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the vegetables soften and smell sweet. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it because garlic can burn fast. You want it fragrant, not browned. This first step is what gives the creamy ham potato soup recipe its cozy homemade taste.

2-Second Step: Make the roux Sprinkle 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes so the flour coats everything and cooks out its raw taste. This simple roux helps thicken the soup later and gives the broth a smoother texture. At this point, the mixture may look a little pasty, and that is completely normal. Just keep stirring so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. A well-cooked roux is one of the secrets behind a good ham potato soup.

3-Third Step: Add broth, potatoes, and ham Slowly pour in the 4 cups low sodium chicken broth, stirring as you go so the mixture stays smooth. Once the broth is fully combined, add the peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes, cooked ham, optional ham bone or ham hock, Dijon mustard if using, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. If you are using a ham bone, the soup will pick up even more flavor as it simmers. This is also a good moment to taste the broth and see how much salt you may need later.

4-Fourth Step: Add the creamy mixture Turn the heat down to low and remove the ham bone if you used one. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream or half-and-half, and 1 to 2 tablespoons cornstarch until the mixture is smooth. This helps prevent lumps and gives the soup a silky body. Slowly stir the dairy mixture into the pot. Keep the heat low so the soup does not boil after the milk and cream are added. Let it simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. Stir often so the dairy stays smooth and does not separate. This is the step that turns the recipe from a simple ham soup recipe into a truly creamy one.

5-Fifth Step: Add the cheese and final seasoning Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and the soup turns smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Since the ham and broth already bring salt, it is best to season slowly. If you like a little extra richness, this is where the cheese really makes the bowl feel complete. It ties the potatoes, ham, broth, and herbs together in a way that feels classic and comforting.

6-Final Step: Serve hot and enjoy Ladle the soup into bowls while it is hot. Top with chopped fresh parsley if you want a little color and freshness. A slice of crusty bread on the side works beautifully for dipping, and it turns this into a full, satisfying meal.

Notes

🥔 Choose Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy texture that holds shape.
🥛 Add dairy mixture on low heat to prevent curdling.
🔪 Use ham bone for deeper flavor if available.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
• Calories: 348
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: creamy ham soup, potato soup, easy comfort, ham potato recipe