This ham and potato soup recipe is a comforting classic, often described as “like a warm hug in a bowl” by home cooks. It’s not only a fantastic way to utilize leftover cooked ham, but it’s also incredibly adaptable to whatever vegetables and seasonings you have available in your kitchen. This makes it a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ham and Potato Soup Ingredients for a Flavorful Bowl
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this satisfying ham and potato soup:
- Aromatic Vegetables: Start with one medium yellow onion and two stalks of celery, these form the aromatic base of your soup.
- Hearty Potatoes: The star of the show! You’ll need about four cups of potatoes, peeled and diced. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Liquid Base: Water is the simple base for boiling your ham and vegetables, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully.
- Savory Ham: About two cups of cooked ham, diced. This soup is ideal for using leftover holiday ham or any cooked ham you have on hand.
- Enhancing Seasonings: Chicken bouillon granules add depth of flavor, complemented by salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Creamy Roux: To create a luxuriously creamy texture, you’ll make a roux with two tablespoons of butter and a quarter cup of all-purpose flour.
- Richness: Two cups of milk are whisked into the roux, forming a smooth and rich base for the soup. Whole milk or 2% milk will provide the best creamy texture.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pioneer Woman Style Ham and Potato Soup
Below is a simplified guide to making this comforting homemade ham and potato soup. For detailed instructions, refer to the full recipe at the end of this article.
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Boil Ham and Vegetables for Flavor Infusion: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the diced ham, chopped onion, celery, and diced potatoes with water. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich broth. Season generously with chicken bouillon granules, salt, and black pepper to enhance the savory notes.
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Craft a Creamy Roux: While the vegetables are simmering, prepare the roux in a separate saucepan. Melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in all-purpose flour. Cook and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the roux is smooth and lightly golden. This cooked roux is key to preventing a floury taste and ensuring a creamy soup.
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Create the Creamy Soup Base: Gradually whisk milk into the roux, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking and cooking over medium heat until the milk mixture thickens slightly and becomes smooth. This creamy white sauce will transform the soup’s texture.
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Combine and Warm: Gently pour the creamy milk mixture into the pot with the ham and vegetables. Stir everything together to combine. Heat the soup through, ensuring it’s warm and the flavors have fully melded. Be careful not to boil the soup at this stage, as it can cause the milk to scald or separate.
Serving Suggestions for Your Ham and Potato Soup
Elevate each bowl of this satisfying ham and potato soup with a variety of delicious toppings. Consider shredded cheddar cheese for a classic cheesy touch, crispy crumbled bacon for added smoky flavor, fresh green onions or chives for a bit of freshness and mild oniony bite. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
For more side dish inspiration, explore collections of side dishes that complement soup, and discover your perfect pairing.
Storing and Reheating Your Homemade Soup
To store leftover ham and potato soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. Stir occasionally during reheating to ensure even warming and maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
Freezing Ham and Potato Soup: What to Consider
While freezing might seem convenient, it’s generally not recommended for this particular ham and potato soup recipe. Potatoes can become grainy and unpleasant in texture after freezing and thawing. Additionally, dairy-based soups like this one have a tendency to separate during the freezing and reheating process, which can affect the soup’s creamy consistency and overall appeal. For the best quality and texture, it’s best to enjoy this soup fresh or within a few days of making it.
Community Praises for this Comforting Recipe
Home cooks rave about this recipe! One enthusiastic reviewer described it as “Like a warm hug in a bowl,” highlighting its comforting and satisfying nature. Another community member noted, “What a yummy comfort food on a cold winter’s night, especially with a loaf of freshly baked bread!” praising it as the perfect cozy meal. Many appreciate its simplicity and deliciousness, with one stating, “Our go-to recipe for soup. Thick, creamy, simple. Fills you up, and leftovers are even better!”. The recipe’s popularity is further cemented by comments like “I often double this recipe because it disappears like magic,” showing just how much of a crowd-pleaser this ham and potato soup truly is.
This Pioneer Woman inspired ham and potato soup is sure to become a family favorite, offering warmth, comfort, and deliciousness in every spoonful.
