This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With creamy textures, chunks of savory ham, and tender potatoes, this soup warms you right down to your soul. Easy to prepare, it’s ideal for chilly days, gatherings with friends, or just a cozy evening at home. You’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also a simple solution when you’re looking to whip up something satisfying and hearty.
Why We Love This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup stands out as a beloved favorite in many households for good reason. First, it’s loaded with flavor, thanks to the combination of ham, cheese, and the aromatic base of onion and garlic. Each spoonful offers a warm embrace, making it a go-to comfort food. Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily tweak the ingredients according to what you have on hand, making it budget-friendly. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, with the creamy texture and rich taste appealing to both kids and adults alike. On busy weekdays or for special occasions, this soup is sure to impress.
Ingredients about Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is the key to making your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup a success. Here’s what you need:
List of ingredients with measurements:
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: green onions for garnish
Once you have your ingredients prepped, you’re well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of goodness!
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup Directions
Creating this Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a straightforward process that doesn’t take much time. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:
- Start by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a base for your flavors.
- Add one chopped onion and the minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent, which enhances their sweetness and flavor.
- Next, toss in the 2 cups of diced potatoes and the 1 cup of diced ham. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This slight browning will deepen the flavor of your soup.
- Now, it’s time to add the liquid! Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a rapid boil. Once it reaches that boiling point, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let this mixture cook for about 15 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will become tender.
- Once the potatoes are soft, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted completely and the soup is creamy.
- Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. The seasoning is crucial as it enhances all the delicious flavors. Serve warm, and if you want to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for garnish.
This process may seem simple, but it results in a rich, hearty soup that’s full of flavor and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
How to Serve Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Serving your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup in a delightful way can enhance the dining experience. Here’s how you can elevate your presentation:
- Choose the Right Bowl: Opt for wide, shallow bowls that allow guests to see the ingredients and colors of your soup. This presentation adds an appealing touch.
- Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions or additional shredded cheese on top of the soup. A dollop of sour cream can also add a beautiful creamy finish.
- Accompaniments: Pair the soup with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. These sides are perfect for dipping and complement the creamy soup beautifully.
- Temperature: Serve the soup hot for the best experience. You can keep it warm in the pot while everyone gets their bowls.
- Custom Spice: If you and your guests enjoy a kick, place a small dish of hot sauce or pepper flakes on the table so everyone can adjust their soup’s heat level to their liking.
By following these simple serving suggestions, you can turn a classic soup into an impressive dish that your family and friends will adore.
Expert Tips: Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Here are some expert tips to make your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup even better:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your soup can be significantly impacted by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese.
- Make It Thicker: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cream and cheese. This will create a creamier texture.
- Adjust Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses can create a unique flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: To boost nutritional content, consider adding extra vegetables such as peas, carrots, or corn. These not only add color but also enhance the soup’s heartiness.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be added for an extra layer of flavor. Toss them in when you add the chicken broth for maximum infusion.
- Make Ahead: This soup can easily be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors meld together beautifully after sitting overnight in the fridge.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be able to elevate your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup to a new level of deliciousness.
How to Store Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Storing your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup properly ensures that you can enjoy it even after it’s been made. Here’s how to go about it:
- Cool Down First: Allow your soup to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can lead to unwanted water in your soup.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the soup in airtight containers. Glass containers are great as they won’t absorb odors and can be reheated easily.
- Refrigerating: You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. The soup can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Remember that the texture of potatoes can change after freezing, so they may be softer when reheating.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your stored soup again, reheat it in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally, and if it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
By storing your soup correctly, you’ll never waste a drop and can savor the flavors of this delightful recipe days after it’s prepared.
Variation of Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Creating variations of your Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup opens up a world of possibilities! Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the diced ham with chickpeas or brown lentils. This will keep the dish hearty while accommodating vegetarian diets.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy version. This will give your soup a nice kick that’s perfect for those who love heat.
- Mexican Style: Incorporate diced tomatoes, black beans, and spices like cumin and paprika to give your soup a Tex-Mex flavor. Top with avocado and crushed tortilla chips for a unique twist.
- Creamy Dream: If you love a creamier soup, you can add more heavy cream or even a splash of sour cream for an extra rich finish.
- Cheesy Blend: Use a combination of cheese such as Gouda, Swiss, or even blue cheese for a more complex flavor.
Mixing and matching these variations can help you discover a new favorite while still enjoying the heartiness of your original recipe.
FAQ
What is the best way to thicken my Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by mashing some of the potato chunks against the side of the pot and stirring them back in. Alternatively, you can mix a starch like cornstarch with a little water and add it to the soup while it simmers.
Can I use leftover holiday ham for this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is a fantastic way to use leftover ham from holidays or family gatherings. It adds great flavor and reduces food waste.
How can I make my Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup healthier?
You can swap heavy cream for a lighter milk option, such as 2% milk or unsweetened almond milk. Using reduced-fat cheese can also cut down on calories while still providing cheesy goodness.
Is this soup freezable?
Yes! Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup freezes well. Just be aware that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly once thawed.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender and evenly cooked.
This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is truly a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its comforting flavors and straightforward preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your home!