Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Warm up with this comforting Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, featuring tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, creamy cheese base. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly days and is sure to become a family favorite! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe ensures that even novice cooks can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese, savory ham, and fresh vegetables creates a flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside your favorite bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spilling over.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for convenience.
• Cutting board & knife: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables quickly.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Broth and Spices

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Creamy Finish

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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How to Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until vegetables are softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes, ham, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend part of the soup for a creamier texture. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and pulse until smooth before returning it to the pot.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Add the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the soup.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot. Enjoy this cheesy delight with your family!

How to Serve Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your soup experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor complements the richness of the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a savory crunch that pairs well with the creamy texture.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Chives: Offers a mild onion flavor that enhances the soup’s taste.
• Fresh Cilantro: Provides a fresh and vibrant touch, balancing the richness.

Add a Dash of Spice

• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle on top before serving.
• Cayenne Pepper: A small pinch adds warmth without overpowering the dish.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a delightful contrast.
• Garden Salad: Fresh veggies add crunch and brightness to your meal.

How to Perfect Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

To ensure your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ham enhance flavor.
• Adjust Thickness: If too thick, add more broth; if too thin, simmer longer to reduce.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère for unique flavors.
• Cook Potatoes Evenly: Cut potatoes into uniform sizes for consistent cooking.
• Blend for Creaminess: Adjust blending based on texture preference—smooth or chunky?
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and spices to suit your palate.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Serving Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup alongside complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for an indulgent pairing.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic combo that’s perfect for dipping into the soup.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their charred flavor balances the richness of the soup well.
4. Baked Potatoes: These can be topped with cheese and bacon bits for extra heartiness.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides freshness that cuts through the creaminess.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa add variety to the meal.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread enhances the savory notes of the soup beautifully.
8. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Lightly sautéed veggies bring color and nutrients to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is simple, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish.

• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing your vegetables first adds depth of flavor to the soup. Always take time to soften your onions, carrots, and celery before adding other ingredients.
• Not seasoning enough: Seasoning is key! Ensure you use enough salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. Taste as you cook and adjust accordingly.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you boil the potatoes for too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender but not falling apart.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. For a creamier texture, shred fresh cheese right before adding it to the soup.
• Neglecting garnishing: A little garnish can elevate your dish’s presentation. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup.

Can I make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

What kind of ham should I use?

You can use any cooked ham you prefer. Leftover ham works well or try using deli ham for convenience.

How can I customize my Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the cheese for different flavors.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but keep in mind that using low-fat milk will result in a less creamy texture.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s stored properly in a freezer-safe container.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly days or family gatherings. Its creamy texture combined with savory ham makes it incredibly satisfying. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses to suit your taste!