Creamy Ham and Potato Comfort Soup Recipe

Homemade Creamy Ham and Potato Comfort Soup Recipe

Crafting a delightful ham and potato comfort soup brings warmth to chilly evenings.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly in this classic dish that promises satisfaction.

Potatoes absorb rich, velvety flavors while tender ham chunks create delectable bites.

Creamy textures mingle with subtle seasonings, promising a comforting experience in every spoonful.

Simple pantry staples transform into a luxurious meal that feels like a culinary hug.

Memories of grandma’s kitchen drift through the aroma, inviting you to savor each delicious moment.

Ladle up this soul-soothing soup and let its magic transport you to pure contentment.

Why Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup Is A Cold-Weather Favorite

  • Savor Family-Friendly Comfort: This hearty soup brings everyone together with its rich, satisfying flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making mealtime a warm and delightful experience.
  • Simplify Slow Cooker Magic: Toss ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic, creating a hands-off cooking method that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by swapping ham for other proteins, adding extra vegetables, or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste preferences and pantry ingredients.
  • Prep Ahead Perfection: Prepare ingredients in advance, store them in the slow cooker insert, and start cooking when you're ready, perfect for busy weekdays or meal planning.

Ingredients For Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup

Main Ingredients:
  • Ham: A savory meat that adds rich flavor and protein to the soup.
  • Potatoes: Hearty vegetables that provide a creamy texture and substance to the dish.
  • Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid base that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
  • Onion, Carrots, Celery: A classic combination that builds a deep, aromatic flavor foundation.
  • Garlic: A pungent ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the soup.
Seasonings and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Thyme, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Spices that create a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile.
  • Heavy Cream, Flour: Key components that thicken and add a luxurious creaminess to the soup.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb used for garnishing and adding a pop of color.

Steps To Cook Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup

Step 1: Prep Colorful Veggie and Protein Base

Chop ham, potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. Mince fresh garlic cloves for an extra flavor punch.

Toss all ingredients into your slow cooker with chicken broth and seasonings.

  • Diced ham
  • Chopped potatoes
  • Diced onions
  • Sliced carrots
  • Chopped celery
  • Minced garlic
  • Chicken broth
  • Thyme
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir everything together to distribute flavors evenly.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and let ingredients simmer. Cook on low setting for 6-7 hours or high setting for 3-4 hours.

The goal is to create super soft potatoes and meld all the delicious flavors together.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Creamy Texture

In a separate small bowl, blend heavy cream and flour until completely smooth.

No lumps allowed! Pour this silky mixture into the slow cooker during the final 30 minutes of cooking.

Stir gently to incorporate.

Step 4: Thicken and Enhance Flavors

Continue cooking until the soup reaches a rich, creamy consistency.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add extra salt or pepper to suit your preference.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal experience.

Tips To Make Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup Even Better

  • Dice ham and vegetables uniformly for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the soup.
  • Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version, using plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
  • Reduce sodium by choosing low-sodium chicken broth and monitoring salt quantities during seasoning process.
  • Prevent cream from curdling by tempering it slowly and whisking constantly when adding to hot soup.
  • Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months, reheating gently to maintain creamy consistency.

Creative Twists For Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup

  • Veggie Power Swap: Replace ham with a colorful mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version packed with nutrients.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and top with pepper jack cheese to give the soup a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Bacon Loaded Upgrade: Crisp up some bacon bits and sprinkle on top with shredded cheddar cheese for an extra savory experience.
  • Mediterranean Herb Remix: Incorporate fresh rosemary, oregano, and swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

What To Eat With Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a light, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the soup's richness and complement its creamy texture.
  • Serve with Rustic Sourdough Bread: Toast thick slices of tangy sourdough to dip into the soup, adding a delightful crunch and extra flavor dimension.
  • Complement with Fresh Green Salad: Toss a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the soup's hearty and creamy profile, providing a fresh, crisp contrast.
  • Enjoy with Sharp Cheddar Cheese Wedges: Offer small pieces of aged cheddar on the side, allowing guests to sprinkle or melt the cheese into the soup for an extra layer of savory depth.

Store Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup The Right Way

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Freeze: Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for 2-3 months. Avoid freezing dairy-based soups as cream may separate.
  • Reheat on Stovetop: Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Warm gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore creamy consistency if needed.
  • Microwave Reheating: Transfer portion to microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when soup is steaming hot but not boiling.

Your Questions About Creamy Ham And Potato Comfort Soup Answered

  • Can I use pre-cooked ham for this soup?

Yes, pre-cooked ham works perfectly and saves preparation time. Just dice the ham and add it to the slow cooker as directed.

  • Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup.

  • What if I don't have a slow cooker?

You can prepare this soup in a large pot on the stovetop. Simmer ingredients on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally until potatoes are tender.

  • Can I freeze this ham and potato soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Ham and Potato Comfort Soup Recipe

Creamy Ham and Potato Comfort Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comforting creamy ham and potato soup delivers pure winter warmth straight from grandma’s kitchen. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, promising rich flavors that wrap you in delicious nostalgia and satisfy deep hunger with each spoonful.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 lb (454 grams) cooked ham, diced

Vegetables:

  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (960 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Gather ham, potatoes, vegetables, and seasonings in the slow cooker, mixing thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
  2. Set slow cooker to low temperature for 6-7 hours or high temperature for 3-4 hours, allowing vegetables and ham to soften and develop rich flavors.
  3. Create a smooth cream mixture by whisking flour into heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain.
  4. Pour cream mixture into slow cooker during final 30 minutes of cooking, stirring gently to integrate and create a velvety texture.
  5. Allow soup to thicken naturally, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even consistency.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance overall flavor profile.
  7. Ladle hot soup into serving bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and serving with crusty bread to complement the creamy texture.

Notes

  • Enhance flavor by using smoked ham for a deeper, richer taste profile that elevates the soup’s overall complexity.
  • Prevent potatoes from becoming mushy by cutting them into uniform, bite-sized chunks to ensure even cooking and perfect texture.
  • Substitute heavy cream with lighter alternatives like half-and-half or milk for a lower-calorie version without sacrificing creamy consistency.
  • Make the soup gluten-free by replacing regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when thickening the soup.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star