ham vegetable soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
ham vegetable soup recipe
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The Best ham vegetable soup recipe

I’ve been making ham vegetable soup for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The recipe has its roots in traditional American cuisine, where hearty soups like this one were a staple of everyday meals.

The combination of tender chunks of ham, fresh vegetables, and savory broth is a winning combination that never fails to please. One of the things I love about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes. Do you prefer a clear broth or a creamy one?

Add some potatoes for a comforting twist or stick to the classic vegetable-only version? The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so great. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and this soup is always a fun project for them to assist with.

From mashing the vegetables to stirring in the seasonings, they get to take part in every step of the process. And when we finally sit down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, there’s nothing quite like the sense of satisfaction we get from sharing a delicious meal together. As for me, I just love how this soup brings everyone together.

It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. We chat, we laugh, and we connect over this warm, comforting bowl of goodness.

Hearty Ham and Vegetable Soup

Hearty Ham and Vegetable Soup

4.9 from 1534 votes

A comforting and flavorful soup made with tender ham, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for using up leftover ham and is both nourishing and satisfying.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked ham, cubed
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add the cubed ham and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly brown the ham.
5Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
6Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
7Add the frozen peas and corn to the pot and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until they are heated through and bright in color.
8Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
9Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
10Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 9g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the peas and corn. You can also add other vegetables like green beans or zucchini. Leftover ham bone can be simmered with the broth for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How Hearty Ham and Vegetable Soup Works

This ham vegetable soup is a reliable recipe that works for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a family gathering. It is easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and always satisfies. I love that I can customize it with whatever vegetables I have and it still turns out delicious.

For storage, let the soup cool completely before putting it in airtight containers. It stays good in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. For serving, I like to pair this soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad. It is hearty enough to be a meal on its own.

If you have leftovers, the soup freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a great option for busy days. I often make a double batch so I have some ready to go. This recipe is a keeper in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Ham and Vegetable Soup

1. What type of ham should I use for this recipe?

The best type of ham to use is a boneless ham steak or diced ham from the deli counter.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ham and cook the vegetables in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker with the broth.

3. How do I store leftover soup?

Leftover soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach to make this soup even more flavorful.

5. Is this soup suitable for babies?

This soup is suitable for babies once they start eating solid foods and are able to handle small pieces of food.

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