cheesy potato soup with ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cheesy potato soup with ham recipe

I’m so excited to share this recipe for cheesy potato soup with ham with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it.

My kids love it when I make it for them, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and it’s packed with nutrients from the potatoes, ham, and cheese.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham or bacon if you have some on hand. One of the things I love most about this recipe is the way the potatoes break down during cooking, creating a creamy texture that’s just divine.

It’s also one of those recipes where you can customize it to your taste by adding in different vegetables or spices. I like to add in some diced carrots and celery for extra flavor and nutrition.

The key to making this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients, like fresh potatoes and real cheese. Don’t be tempted to use the pre-shredded cheese – it’s just not the same as using a block of cheddar or mozzarella.

Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham

4.9 from 925 votes

This hearty soup combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy cheese broth. It is a comforting meal perfect for cold days, ready in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream

👨‍🍳Directions

1Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes to form a light golden roux.
5Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps, then add the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6Add the diced potatoes, ham, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot.
7Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender.
8Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
9Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then serve hot.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cheese. You can also use leftover baked ham or smoked ham steak. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese to prevent curdling.

Watch Video Of How Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham Works

This cheesy potato soup with ham is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or something easy to serve at a family gathering.

It’s also incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your additions and substitutions.

Some ideas include adding in some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor, using different types of cheese for a unique twist, or even serving it over rice or noodles for a hearty meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham

Q: What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

This recipe works best with high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. They’ll break down nicely during cooking and give the soup a creamy texture.

Q: Can I use leftover ham instead of buying fresh ham?

Yes, you can definitely use leftover ham in place of fresh ham. Just be sure to adjust the amount of seasoning accordingly.

Q: How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

You can prevent the soup from becoming too thick by adding in a little bit more chicken broth or water as you go along. Just be sure not to overdo it – you want the soup to still have some body to it.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

This recipe works beautifully in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ham and cook the vegetables before adding everything to the slow cooker and letting it cook on low all day.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

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