If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and will please the whole family, this Ham and Potato Soup recipe is the perfect option. It's a cozy combination of tender potatoes, flavorful ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables that come together in a rich, warming broth. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious soup from scratch and get all the tips you need for a perfect result.

What Is Ham and Potato Soup?
Ham and potato soup is a classic comfort dish that combines smoked ham, potatoes, and vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in a savory broth. It’s a versatile meal that can be made with basic pantry staples and allows for various substitutions or additions based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether served as a cozy lunch or dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy!
Ingredients List for Ham and Potato Soup:
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this flavorful soup:
- 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and color to the soup.
- 2 sticks celery, finely chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and balance to the flavors.
- ½ medium onion, chopped: Enhances the soup with its mild, savory taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and enhancing their flavor.
- 1 pound smoked ham, cut into small pieces: The star of the dish, adding a smoky, rich taste.
- 2.5 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces: The potatoes make the soup hearty and creamy.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth of flavor and aroma.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that complements the savory ham and potatoes.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides the liquid base, adding richness and flavor.
- 2 cups water: Helps thin out the soup without overpowering the taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning to bring out the best flavors in every bite.
Substitutions and Variations:
This ham and potato soup recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to make substitutions or adjustments based on dietary needs or ingredient availability. Here are a few ideas:
- Ham Substitutes: If you don’t have smoked ham, you can use bacon, sausage, or even turkey ham. Bacon will add a crispier texture and more smoky flavor, while sausage will make the soup richer.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as leeks, bell peppers, or even corn for more texture and flavor. You can also replace the Russet potatoes with Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a twist.
- Dairy: For a creamier version, consider adding heavy cream, milk, or even some sour cream toward the end of the cooking process.
- Herbs and Spices: Swap out the Italian seasoning for thyme, bay leaves, or parsley if you prefer different flavors. Add a pinch of paprika for a subtle smoky kick or cayenne pepper for heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making ham and potato soup is straightforward, but following the right steps will ensure your soup is packed with flavor and has the right consistency.

How to Cook Ham and Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Sauté the Vegetables: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add the Garlic and Seasoning: Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the Italian seasoning to infuse the vegetables with a nice herbaceous flavor.
- Incorporate the Ham: Add the diced ham to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the ham to release its smoky flavor, infusing the soup with delicious aromas.
- Add the Potatoes and Liquids: Once the ham is heated through, add the peeled and chopped potatoes, followed by the chicken broth and water. Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
- Mash Some Potatoes for Thickness (Optional): For a thicker, creamier soup, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the potatoes while they’re still in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the smoked ham and chicken broth already contain salt, so start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While ham and potato soup is relatively easy to make, there are a few pitfalls that can affect the outcome:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the potatoes, as they can become mushy and disintegrate.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Ham and broth already have salt, so taste the soup before adding extra seasoning.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Sautéing the vegetables first enhances their flavors and makes the soup more robust, so don’t skip this step.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your ham and potato soup can elevate it from a simple dish to a standout meal.
How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup:
Serve the soup hot, ladled into bowls, and accompanied by crusty bread or crackers. You can also garnish it with a few toppings for added flavor and texture, such as:
- Chopped parsley or chives: Adds a fresh, vibrant color and a mild oniony flavor.
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar or gouda are great choices for extra richness.
- Crumbled bacon: For extra crunch and smokiness.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess and a touch of tang.
Presentation Ideas for Ham and Potato Soup:
- Serve in rustic bowls or bread bowls for a cozy, inviting feel.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Freezing: You can freeze ham and potato soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the potatoes from becoming too mushy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
Yes! In fact, using leftover ham from a holiday meal like Easter or Christmas is a great way to repurpose it.
2. How can I make this soup creamier?
For a creamier soup, you can mash more of the potatoes or stir in some heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk at the end of cooking.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply sauté the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can be used instead of Russet potatoes. However, Russet potatoes tend to make the soup creamier due to their starch content.
5. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube if needed.
Conclusion
This hearty Ham and Potato Soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting, filling meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a bowl of warm, flavorful soup on the table in no time. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, toppings, and presentation ideas to make it your own! Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
PrintHam And Potato Soup Recipe
A rich and savory Ham and Potato Soup recipe featuring smoked ham, russet potatoes, and a flavorful blend of vegetables. A warm and filling comfort food ideal for cold days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 large carrot, peeled & chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (approx.) smoked ham, cut into small pieces
- 2.5 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled & cut into 1″ pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning, and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ham, potatoes, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- For a creamier consistency, blend half the soup with an immersion blender.
- Use leftover ham for a quicker preparation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
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