There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup checks all the right boxes. Creamy, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors, this soup brings together the best of cheese, potatoes, and savory ham. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to satisfy a crowd, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Grab your ingredients, and let's make this soul-soothing soup that will warm hearts (and stomachs)!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cozy masterpiece:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 2 cups cooked and diced ham
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Crumbled bacon (optional, for topping)
A Quick Tip!
Got leftover holiday ham? This soup is a fantastic way to use it up! You can even swap out the cheddar for another cheese you love, like Gruyère or Fontina.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with the Base
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Build the Foundation of Flavor
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and stir continuously, creating a roux. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, making sure the flour doesn’t brown.
3. Bring the Soup to Life
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the Potatoes and Ham
- Stir in the diced potatoes and ham. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes over medium heat, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Make It Cheesy and Creamy
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the soup becomes rich and creamy.
6. Season to Perfection
- Add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, top with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or extra shredded cheese.
Customization and Serving Tips
- Make it vegetarian: You can easily skip the ham and add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or even a handful of spinach. Use vegetable broth for the base.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a little kick.
- Thicker soup: For extra thickness, mash some of the potatoes with a fork before adding the milk.
- Serve with love: Pair your soup with crusty bread, buttery rolls, or even a fresh side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food—a dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re enjoying it solo while curled up on the couch or serving a crowd (with everyone sneaking seconds!), it’s a recipe worth keeping in your back pocket.
So, go ahead and give it a try. You might just discover your new favorite way to make chilly days cozier!
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