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Every time I make this Creamy Ham and Potato Soup, it reminds me of cozy evenings spent in the kitchen with my family. The delightful aroma wafting through the house embraces you like a warm hug, triggering memories of laughter, stories, and sharing good food. You know that feeling of comfort when you have a bowl of something warm in your hands? That’s exactly what this soup embodies. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming tradition that sparks joy and brings people together, especially during the chilly months. I think you will find that once you try it, you’ll feel the same warmth and comfort that I cherish so much!
How to make Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chopped ham | 1 cup |
| Diced potatoes | 2 cups |
| Chopped onions | 1 cup |
| Diced carrots | 1 cup |
| Chopped celery | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
| Garlic powder (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Thyme (optional) | 1 tsp |
Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the soup smell and taste amazing!
Cooking Steps
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. If you’re like me, you’ll probably admire the way it sizzles! Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these beauties until they soften up, about 5 to 7 minutes. The smell? Absolutely heavenly!
2. Add the Ham and Potatoes
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Next, toss in the chopped ham and diced potatoes. This is where your soup starts to come to life! Stir everything together well, making sure the ham is evenly distributed.
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth
Now, it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. This broth is the heart of the soup, so choose a good quality one that enhances flavor. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Doesn’t it look wonderful already?
4. Let It Simmer
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This is when the potatoes will soften nicely, soaking up all those lovely flavors. Keep an eye on it; you want it simmering, not boiling!
5. Stir in the Heavy Cream
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to add the heavy cream. This will make the soup creamy and rich, and I can already picture the smiles on your family’s faces when they taste it! Stir it in gently.
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6. Season to Taste
Now it’s time to season with salt and pepper. Remember, you can always add more later, so start with a pinch and adjust according to your taste. If you like a hint of garlic, now’s your chance to sprinkle in that garlic powder!
7. Thicken It Up (Optional)
If you find the soup to be a bit thin for your liking, you can help it thicken up by letting it simmer for another few minutes. Keep stirring throughout to avoid anything sticking to the bottom.
8. A Final Touch of Flavor
Add in the thyme, if using. It gives such a lovely flavor that complements the ham beautifully. Taste once more—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
9. Serve It Up
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Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you want to impress your family even more, add some crusty bread on the side. You’re sure to be the hero of the dinner table tonight!
Why I Love Making This Dish
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup has a special place in my heart for so many reasons. It’s a reflection of family traditions that have been passed down through generations, and every time I make it, I often think of my grandmother bustling around the kitchen, creating a delightful meal for her family. The warmth it brings is quite remarkable.
You see, there’s something incredibly rewarding about making a dish that fills bellies and warms hearts. It’s comfort food at its best, and it’s perfect for pairing with stories of the day’s happenings. Whether it’s a chilly day or when you just want something heartwarming, this soup checks all the boxes!
What You’ll Need
For this recipe, all you really need is a large pot and a wooden spoon. A good cutting board and knife will also be your best friends in preparing the vegetables. I always say a nice sharp knife makes everything easier and safer! And if you have a ladle, that makes serving a whole lot easier too.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your stove to medium heat.
- Melt the butter in your pot, ready for the aromatic vegetables.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery.
- Toss in the ham and potatoes after the veggies soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth to create that nourishing base.
- Reduce the heat and let it bubble gently for a while.
- Stir in the heavy cream for that dreamy consistency.
- Season as you like, tasting along the way!
- Serve it up hot, and don’t forget that crusty bread!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make this soup even more delightful, I have a few tricks up my sleeve! I always recommend using meaty ham pieces—those bits bring a lovely depth of flavor. If you notice your soup is too thick, just add a splash more of the broth or cream; it’s flexible! And for an extra touch, try garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
As for what to serve with this scrumptious soup, I think a side salad is perfect. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs so well with the creamy texture of the soup! Crusty bread is my go-to, but I also adore pairing it with warm sandwiches, perhaps some grilled cheese for that nostalgia factor. The combinations are endless!
Leftovers
You might find that this soup tastes even better the next day! To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It usually lasts about 3-4 days, but trust me, it may not last that long! To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
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FAQ Section
Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for this soup—it’s what makes it so special! Just chop it up and toss it in like fresh ham.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
You certainly can! Just make sure to store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve. If you plan to freeze it, I recommend leaving out the heavy cream until you’re ready to heat it.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or even whole milk if that’s what you have on hand. Just know that the soup may not be as creamy, but it will still be delicious!
Conclusion
This Creamy Ham and Potato Soup has become one of my absolute favorites, and I’m so excited for you to try it for yourself. I know you’ll love it just as much as I do, especially with its warm, comforting qualities. As you gather around the table with your loved ones, I hope it sparks laughter and love, just like it does in my home. Let me know how it turns out—if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, you can be sure you hit the mark!