There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with hearty ingredients like tender potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese. This Creamy Potato, Ham, and Cheese Soup is an ideal dish for those chilly days when you need something both satisfying and soothing. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together a variety of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply looking to indulge in a bowl of comfort, this soup is sure to impress with its rich, creamy texture and savory taste.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that will turn your kitchen into a haven of warmth and flavor!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. As the butter melts, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and begin to release their fragrant aromas. This process allows the flavors to develop, laying the perfect foundation for the rest of the soup. Add the minced garlic to the mix and cook for another minute, ensuring it becomes fragrant without burning.
2. Add Potatoes and Broth
Once the vegetables are softened and fragrant, it’s time to introduce the star of the show—potatoes. Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. This is when the magic starts to happen—the potatoes begin to release their starch, giving the soup that creamy texture you crave.
3. Prepare the Ham and Cream
Now, stir in the diced cooked ham. Let it warm through for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the ham infuses its savory flavor into the soup. After the ham is heated, slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. The cream adds richness and smoothness to the broth, taking the soup to the next level of indulgence. If you’re looking for a lighter version, feel free to substitute the heavy cream with whole milk. The soup will still be delicious but slightly less creamy.
4. Thicken the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker, heartier soup, you can use a simple thickening technique. In a small bowl, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. As the soup simmers, the flour will help thicken the broth, giving it a velvety texture. If you’re looking to make the soup gluten-free, simply skip the flour and use a cornstarch slurry instead.
5. Add Cheese
Now comes the fun part—cheese! Reduce the heat to low and begin adding the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the soup, a handful at a time. Stir well after each addition, allowing the cheese to melt smoothly and seamlessly into the broth. Be careful not to bring the soup to a boil after adding the cheese, as this can cause it to curdle. Once all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy, it’s time to taste and season.
6. Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Once you’re happy with the flavor, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy potato, ham, and cheese soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers to dip, and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Make It Gluten-Free: Skip the flour or use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup.
- Add More Veggies: For extra nutrition, consider adding corn, peas, or spinach to the soup. They add flavor and a vibrant touch.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap out sharp cheddar for Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses to customize the flavor profile. You could even try adding a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Creamy Potato, Ham, and Cheese Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It combines the earthiness of potatoes, the savory depth of ham, and the creamy goodness of cheese in one bowl. The blend of vegetables and broth creates a hearty base, while the cream and cheese bring it all together in the most satisfying way. It’s an easy-to-make, filling soup that requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with different cheeses or vegetables, making it suitable for a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or a cozy meal just for yourself, this soup is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both delicious and comforting, look no further than Creamy Potato, Ham, and Cheese Soup. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an easy way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without much fuss. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and the satisfaction of a warm bowl on a cold day, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.
Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a bowl of something soothing, this soup will never disappoint. Enjoy it with your favorite bread or crackers for a complete meal, and savor every comforting spoonful!
