As the winter months approach, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And what better combination than creamy ham and potatoes? The rich flavors of ham and potatoes pair perfectly together, making for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new favorite. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different recipes that put the perfect spin on classic ham and potato soup.
From classic combinations like cheddar and bacon to more adventurous takes with jalapeños and buttermilk, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy ham and potato soup recipes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to serve at your next gathering, these soups are sure to hit the spot.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and variations to help you make them your own. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s start cooking!
Classic Ham and Potato Soup with Cheddar
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting, creamy soup that combines the rich flavors of ham, potatoes, and cheddar cheese. This simple recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add diced ham and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add potatoes, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy ham and potato chowder cooked to perfection in your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the ham, potatoes, onion, and garlic to your slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and milk. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Top with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Ham and Sweet Potato Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and ham with a spicy kick from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, this recipe is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes, ham, red pepper flakes, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree soup to desired consistency.
5. If using, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup with Bacon
This rich and satisfying soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting treat any time of the year. With the addition of crispy bacon, sweet potatoes, and a blend of cheeses, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup diced ham
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, ham, and bacon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Ham and Potato Soup with Kale
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients. With the addition of kale, this recipe provides a boost of vitamins and antioxidants to keep you warm and cozy on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the potatoes, ham, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale leaves and cook until wilted.
4. If desired, add heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Ham and Potato Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of ham, potatoes, and fresh herbs to create a warm and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for added richness.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Ham and Potato Soup with Corn
Smoked Ham and Potato Soup with Corn Recipe Summary:
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky flavors from the smoked ham, creamy potatoes, and sweetness from the corn. It’s an easy and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked ham, diced
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced smoked ham and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, milk or heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the frozen corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Carrots and Celery
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and warmth. With the richness of ham, creaminess of potatoes, and sweetness of carrots and celery, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the diced ham, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Garlic Breadcrumbs
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting soup recipe that combines the richness of ham, potatoes, and onions with the crunch of garlic breadcrumbs. This hearty soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Garlic breadcrumbs (see below)
Garlic Breadcrumbs:
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
4. Mix panko breadcrumbs with minced garlic and olive oil. Spread on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve soup hot, topped with toasted garlic breadcrumbs and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Fresh Thyme
This comforting soup combines the savory flavors of ham and potatoes with the brightness of fresh thyme, making it perfect for a chilly day or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and cooked ham. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the fresh thyme sprigs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Sour Cream
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy ham and potato soup, topped with a dollop of tangy sour cream. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb diced ham
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Roasted Garlic
Start your day or warm up on a chilly evening with this comforting and flavorful soup, featuring roasted garlic and tender chunks of ham.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced potatoes, ham, chicken broth, and roasted garlic to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, allow soup to cool and blend in batches in a blender.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Leeks and Parsley
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. The combination of tender ham, creamy potatoes, and sweet leeks, finished with a hint of fresh parsley, will warm your belly and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add leeks, onion, and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Crumbled Sausage
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and spicy sausage. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound diced ham
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 crumbled sausage (such as breakfast sausage or Italian sausage), about 1/2 pound
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in crumbled sausage and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Dill and Chives
This hearty soup combines the richness of ham with the comforting warmth of potatoes, brightened by the freshness of dill and chives. Perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons chopped chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in dill and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional dill and chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Buttermilk
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham, fluffy potatoes, and tangy buttermilk, making it a great cold-weather meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and buttermilk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Jalapeños
This creamy soup combines the comfort of ham and potatoes with a kick from jalapeños, making it a perfect blend of warm and spicy. A great option for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 jalapeños, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, potatoes, jalapeños, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree half of the soup.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Parmesan Cheese
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham, tender potatoes, and savory cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm and inviting bowl that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add diced potatoes, cooked ham, chicken broth, and milk or heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with Crispy Onions
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. The combination of tender ham, potatoes, and caramelized onions in a rich and creamy broth will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add diced ham, potatoes, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. While the soup is cooking, toss onion slices with a pinch of salt and bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve the hot soup with a sprinkle of crispy onions on top.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ham and Potato Soup with a Touch of Mustard
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of ham with the creaminess of potatoes, all tied together with a hint of mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and milk to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up this winter with these delicious and creamy ham and potato soup recipes! From classic combinations to spicy twists, there’s something for everyone in this list of 20 mouthwatering soups. Try adding cheddar cheese for a rich and indulgent flavor or smoky ham for a savory twist. For a healthier option, add some kale for an extra nutritional boost. With ingredients like bacon, sour cream, and roasted garlic, you’ll be sure to find the perfect bowl of comfort food to warm your belly and your heart.