Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially on chilly days. This enticing dish combines tender potatoes, savory chunks of ham, and rich flavors that develop beautifully in a slow cooker. With minimal effort, you can create a creamy, hearty soup that warms the soul and satisfies hunger. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Crockpot delight is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why We Love This Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a meal that practically prepares itself. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand, making it a perfect weeknight option. The creamy texture combined with the saltiness of the ham creates a delicious contrast that you can relish with every spoonful. This soup also freezes well, meaning you can enjoy it long after you’ve made it. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, ensuring that you can whip it up without much fuss.
Ingredients about Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
Gather these tasty ingredients for your soup:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter
How to Make Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Directions
Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3! Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Start with the foundation of the soup, the diced potatoes, and place them at the bottom of the Crockpot. You want these to soak up all the flavor, so be generous in your layering.
Next, add the chopped onion. This will infuse the dish with a delightful aroma and added sweetness as it cooks down. Following the onion, toss in the diced ham, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed throughout your ingredients. The pieces should mingle together, allowing the flavors to integrate as they simmer.
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. This savory liquid will be the backbone of your soup, providing depth and richness. Once that’s in, don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. These spices will enhance the taste, bringing everything to life.
Cover your Crockpot and let it work its magic. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. The longer cooking time allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
About 30 minutes before your soup is ready to serve, add the heavy cream and milk. Stir gently to combine these creamy ingredients, watching as your soup transforms into a velvety masterpiece. The last touch is adding butter, which will melt into the broth and make it even more luscious. Once done, take a moment to taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serve your warm soup in bowls and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This simple step can elevate the presentation, making it that much more appealing.
How to Serve Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
You can present your Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup in various ways to make it even more enjoyable for you and your guests. For the best experience, serve the soup fresh out of the Crockpot still steaming. The soothing warmth is perfect for those chilly evenings or rainy days.
Consider pairing your soup with warm, crusty bread. A baguette or sourdough loaf can complement the dish beautifully, providing a delightful crunch to suit the creamy soup. You might also want to offer a simple side salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.
If you have any leftover soup, serve it as a light lunch the next day. It heats up wonderfully and can be paired with a slice of cheese or a side of crackers. Garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a touch of color and flavor, making it just as delightful upon reheating.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
To ensure your soup is top-notch, here are some expert tips you might find helpful:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: While any potato will work, using waxy varieties like red or Yukon gold will give your soup the perfect texture. They hold their shape well and add creaminess when cooked.
- Sauté Onions for Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, you can take a few minutes to sauté your onions in butter before adding them to the Crockpot. This simple step will increase the sweetness and complexity of the flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables for More Volume: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like carrots or celery. They can enhance the nutritional content and add a lovely variety in texture.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider mashing some of the potatoes with a fork about halfway through the cooking process. This will create a creamier texture without adding any flour or thickening agents.
- Season Smartly: Always taste your soup before serving. Depending on the saltiness of your ham and broth, you might need to adjust the seasonings to get it just right.
How to Store Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
Storing your Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup is quite simple. First, allow any leftover soup to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container. It’s crucial to keep it airtight to maintain freshness.
You can safely store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. When properly sealed, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Give it a good stir, and feel free to add a splash of milk or cream if it appears too thick after freezing.
Variation of Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
There are countless variations you can try with Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Cheesy Delight: For cheese lovers, adding shredded cheese like cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack during the last 30 minutes of cooking can create a creamy, cheesy texture that enhances every bite.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs. Instead of thyme, consider using rosemary or dill for varied flavor profiles. Fresh herbs added just before serving can also brighten the dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This can invigorate the flavor and add a nice zing to your soup.
- Vegetarian Twist: For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add cream cheese for creaminess or include white beans for protein while keeping it hearty.
- Creamy Spinach Addition: Adding fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking can provide extra nutrients and a beautiful splash of color.
FAQ
What is the best way to thicken Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup?
If you want a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes or use a cornstarch slurry. To do this, mix a couple of tablespoons of cornstarch with equal parts water and stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I make Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this soup the night before cooking. Just chop the ingredients, combine them in the Crockpot, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Alternatively, you can cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.
How long does Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup last in the fridge?
Your delicious soup can be kept in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Store it in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will last for around 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What can I serve with Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup?
Pair your soup with warm bread, a side salad, or even sandwiches for a complete meal. These sides complement the soup while adding to its hearty appeal.
With these insights and tips in mind, you are now equipped to make a fantastic Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup that can bring comfort and joy to any table. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups diced potatoes Waxy varieties like red or Yukon gold are preferable.
- 1 cup diced ham Use leftover or cooked ham.
- 1 onion, chopped Adds sweetness and aroma.
- 2 cups chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a richer texture.
- 1 cup milk Adjust depending on desired creaminess.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust based on ham and broth saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme Substitute with rosemary or dill if desired.
- 2 tablespoons butter Melted into the broth for richness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the slow cooker by placing the diced potatoes at the bottom.
- Add the chopped onion on top of the potatoes.
- Layer the diced ham evenly throughout the ingredients.
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
Cooking
- Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and milk.
- Add butter and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serving
- Serve warm in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
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