Ham and potato soup is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Creamy potatoes, tender chunks of ham, and flavorful broth come together to create a rich, warming soup that’s easy to make at home. This recipe is perfect for using leftover ham and is ideal for family meals or batch cooking.
⏱ PREP TIME
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Prep: 15 minutes
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Cook: 30 minutes
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Total: ~45 minutes
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Servings: 4–6
🍳 EQUIPMENT
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Large pot or Dutch oven
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Knife & cutting board
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Wooden spoon
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Measuring cups & spoons
🧾 INGREDIENTS
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2 cups diced ham (leftover or cooked ham)
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4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 cup milk or cream
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional add-ins:
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1 cup diced carrots or celery
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Shredded cheddar cheese for topping
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Crumbled bacon
📝 INGREDIENT NOTES
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Ham: Leftover cooked ham works perfectly.
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Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet for creamy texture.
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Milk/Cream: Adds richness; can use half-and-half for lighter version.
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Flour: Used to thicken the soup slightly.
👩🍳 INSTRUCTIONS
1️⃣ Prepare the base
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
Add onions and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.
2️⃣ Add ham and potatoes
Add diced ham, potatoes, and optional carrots/celery.
Stir to combine.
3️⃣ Add broth and simmer
Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
4️⃣ Thicken and add cream
In a small bowl, whisk flour into milk or cream until smooth.
Slowly stir into the soup and simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Adjust seasoning as needed.
5️⃣ Serve
Garnish with parsley, shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon.
Serve hot with crusty bread.
🥗 NUTRITION FACTS (approx. per serving)
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Calories: ~250
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Protein: 15g
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Carbs: 22g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: varies by ham and broth
⭐ TIPS FOR PERFECT HAM AND POTATO SOUP
✔ Use leftover ham for extra flavor
✔ Cut potatoes evenly for uniform cooking
✔ Don’t overcook once cream is added to avoid curdling
✔ Simmer gently for a richer taste
✔ Add a splash of milk at the end for extra creaminess
🔄 VARIATIONS
Cheesy Ham Potato Soup: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese at the end.
Loaded Soup: Top with crispy bacon and green onions.
Vegetable Boost: Add corn, peas, or green beans.
Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium broth and less ham salt.