Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving a cozy meal. Packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Why Make Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is a delicious way to use up leftover ham and vegetables, making it both economical and flavorful. It’s a satisfying one-pot meal that can be prepared relatively quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

How to Make Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, carrot, red potatoes, and deli ham. Sauté until onions and ham start to crisp on the edges, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, onion powder, and parsley; cook for 1 minute.
2. Add Broth and Simmer: Stir in low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Prepare Creamy Base: In a skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour. Whisk over low heat for 3-4 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk until creamy and smooth. Once thickened, slowly whisk or stir this mixture into the soup. Simmer until warm and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Ham and Potato Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Info

Leftover Creamy Ham and Potato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to adjust the consistency if needed.

Some Techniques or Tips

• For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or stock instead of store-bought.
• Feel free to customize the soup by adding extra vegetables such as peas, corn, or spinach.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less milk, depending on your preference.

Variation

To make this soup even heartier, you can add cooked bacon or shredded cooked chicken along with the ham. Alternatively, you can make it vegetarian-friendly by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs about Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

1. Can I use leftover cooked potatoes instead of raw ones? Yes, you can use leftover cooked potatoes if you have them on hand. Simply add them to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
2. Can I freeze Creamy Ham and Potato Soup? While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, consider undercooking the potatoes slightly to prevent them from becoming mushy when thawed and reheated.
3. Can I use different types of ham for this soup? Yes, you can use any type of ham you prefer, such as smoked ham or leftover holiday ham. Adjust the seasoning accordingly based on the saltiness of the ham you use.

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