Ham and potato soup

This ham and potato soup is a warm, comforting bowl of creamy potatoes, tender ham, and soft vegetables. It’s the kind of recipe people love because it’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. ham and potato soup works well when you want something filling without fuss. I usually start by chopping the vegetables while the pot heats, keeping the cooking calm and straightforward.

a high resolution food photograph of homemade ham 1

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This soup is comforting, flavorful, and simple to pull together. The creamy potatoes pair beautifully with the salty, tender ham, creating a dish that warms the whole family. It’s weeknight-friendly, freezer-safe, and stretches well for leftovers, making it budget-conscious too. You can adjust vegetables, swap spices, or add extra ham depending on what’s on hand. ham and potato soup is crowd-pleasing, easy to customize, and perfect for saving for later. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a reliable, cozy go-to when you want comfort food without stress.

a high resolution food photograph of homemade ham

Ingredients

Tip: Use cooked ham with a mix of lean and fattier cuts for the best flavor.

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups cooked ham, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup milk or cream

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Peel and dice potatoes, slice carrots and celery, and chop ham. Keep all ingredients ready before turning on the heat to make cooking smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Melt butter in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally so the vegetables don’t brown.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add garlic, potatoes, ham, broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until combined. The broth should cover the vegetables and the ham pieces.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Stir in milk or cream, warm through, and taste for seasoning before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This soup comes together in one pot and doesn’t require constant attention. You can prep vegetables ahead or use leftover ham. It stores and reheats well, which makes it perfect for cooking once and enjoying multiple times. It’s reliable, filling, and hassle-free.

Tips & Tricks

Cut vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking. Uneven sizes can leave some undercooked while others turn mushy.
Add salt gradually to avoid over-seasoning. Broth varies in salt content.
Stir in milk or cream off the heat to prevent curdling. This keeps the soup smooth and creamy.
Use leftover ham for extra flavor. Don’t overcook it to avoid dryness and maintain tender bites.

Variations

Meaty Version
Add diced cooked bacon or extra ham for a richer, smoky flavor. This makes the soup heartier without changing the base.

Vegetarian Option
Skip the ham and use vegetable broth with extra potatoes, carrots, and celery. It stays cozy and filling without meat.

Ingredient Swap
Use sweet potatoes or parsnips instead of white potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. This also adds natural color and variation.

Flavor or Herb Boost
Stir in fresh parsley, chives, or a pinch of smoked paprika before serving. Herbs brighten flavors and give the soup an inviting aroma.

Serving Suggestions

With Bread
Serve with warm crusty bread or rolls for dipping. The creamy soup and soft bread make a comforting combo.
Family Dinner Bowl
Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. Kids and adults both enjoy the added richness.
Side Salad
Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced, easy meal that feels lighter but still filling.
Lunch Packs
Pack into containers for easy reheatable lunches. The flavors hold well, making it convenient for busy days.

Storage Instructions

Fridge Storage
Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to four days. Flavors deepen as it sits.
Reheating
Warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.
Freezing
Freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Make-Ahead Tips
Chop vegetables and cook the soup a day ahead. Reheat gently before serving for an easy, stress-free meal.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Rest Time: Not needed
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 250–300 per serving
Protein: 15–20 grams
Provides vitamin C from potatoes and carrots, plus minerals from broth and ham. Values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients.

FAQs

Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

Boiling too hard can make potatoes fall apart.

Yes, use any milk or cream alternative.

Simmer uncovered longer or mash some potatoes for thickness.

Up to four days in the fridge.

Conclusion

This ham and potato soup is cozy, simple, and versatile. It works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and comforting lunches. You can adjust vegetables, add extra ham, or switch up seasonings to make it your own. It’s the kind of soup that feels familiar, filling, and easy to revisit again and again. Keep it on hand for those cold nights when a warm, soothing bowl is exactly what you need.