Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a delightful comfort dish that warms you from the inside out. Packed with flavor, this creamy soup features comforting chunks of tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave something hearty and delicious. You will find that preparing this recipe is simple and straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both experienced cooks and those who may be new to the kitchen.
Why We Love This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a steaming bowl of Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup. It’s one of those recipes that combines convenience with comfort. Imagine coming home on a cold day to the inviting aroma wafting from your kitchen; it’s like a warm embrace in a bowl. The mixture of creamy cheese and tender ham creates a rich flavor that truly hits the spot. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering with family and friends, this soup is bound to be a hit. Plus, it’s simple enough that you can easily modify it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
Ingredients about Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
To create a delightful Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or any cheese of your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: green onions, croutons
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Directions
Preparing Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a relatively straightforward process. Follow these steps to create a soup that will delight your taste buds:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, begin by heating a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step helps to infuse your soup with foundational flavors.
- Add the Ham and Potatoes: Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the diced ham to the pot. Stir for 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham to warm up and blend flavors. Next, add the diced potatoes, mixing everything well.
- Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. This boiling step kicks off the cooking process and gets everything bubbling nicely.
- Simmer for Tender Potatoes: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer. This allows the potatoes to cook through until they become fork-tender, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Create the Creamy Base: After the potatoes are tender, it’s time to make the soup creamy. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Continue cooking over low heat until the cheese has melted and the soup reaches your desired thickness, generally around 5-7 minutes.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to create the perfect flavor according to your palate.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and consider garnishing with optional toppings like sliced green onions or croutons for added texture and flavor.
How to Serve Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Serving Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is as enjoyable as making it. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home but is equally delightful when serving a group. Here’s how to make it special:
- Choose Your Bowls: Opt for wide, shallow bowls that allow generous servings, showcasing the creamy soup loaded with ingredients.
- Garnish for Flair: Add a pop of color and flavor by topping your soup with fresh green onions or crunchy croutons. This adds texture and visual appeal.
- Pair with Bread: Consider serving the soup alongside warm, crusty bread. A bread roll or grilled cheese sandwich enhances the comforting experience.
- Make it a Meal: Turn your soup into a complete meal by pairing it with a light salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of a salad balances out the richness of the soup.
- Keep it Warm: If you’re serving at a gathering, keep the soup warm in a slow cooker or insulated pot to ensure it stays delicious for everyone as they help themselves.
Expert Tips: Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
To elevate your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup to new heights, consider these expert tips:
- Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheese varieties. While Cheddar is a classic choice, mixing in some Monterey Jack or Fontina can add a new flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to enhance the soup by adding extra vegetables. Carrots, celery, or even corn work well and add nutritional value.
- Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the pot after they have cooked. This starch will naturally thicken the soup.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when seasoning.
- Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers, let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It generally tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
How to Store Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Proper storage of your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup ensures that you can enjoy every last spoonful. Here’s what to do:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. This prevents condensation and keeps the soup fresh.
- Containers Matter: Use airtight containers for storage. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work well. If you’re making a large batch, consider using smaller containers for easy portioning.
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in the refrigerator, where it can last for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup after it cools. Make sure to leave some space in the container since liquids expand when frozen. It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Reheat Carefully: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems thick, add a little chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Variation of Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
There are countless ways to customize your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ham for extra vegetables or beans. Ingredients like chickpeas or mushrooms can replicate the hearty feel while keeping it meat-free.
- Herbed Cheese: Incorporate herb-infused cheese to add a layer of flavor. Garlic-herb cheese can change the profile of the soup dramatically.
- Spicy Option: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or spicy sausage. This adds a delightful kick and elevates the soup from comforting to exciting.
- Loaded Version: Make a loaded baked potato-inspired soup by adding toppings like sour cream, bacon bits (if preferred), and fresh chives or parsley to finish.
- Slow Cooker Adaptation: Adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the onions and garlic, then throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
FAQ
What is Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup?
Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty dish made with diced ham, potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, and cheese. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any day.
How do I make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup until smooth. You can also add a cornstarch mixture if needed.
Can I freeze Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave space for expansion.
How long does Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
What can I use instead of ham in the soup?
For a vegetarian option, consider using extra vegetables, beans, or a plant-based meat substitute to maintain a hearty texture in your soup.
Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham
- 4 cups diced potatoes Any type of potato works well.
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or any cheese of your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- green onions Sliced, for garnish.
- croutons For added texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the diced ham to the pot and stir for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes, mixing well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the heavy cream and melted cheese, cooking on low until desired thickness, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions or croutons if desired.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!