Craving a meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day? Look no further than this hearty and delicious potato ham soup, reminiscent of the comforting classics you’d find in the Pioneer Woman’s kitchen. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, especially if you have leftover ham from a holiday feast, but it’s also wonderfully versatile. Feel free to adapt it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings to create a soup that’s uniquely yours.
Simple Ingredients for a Hearty Soup
To whip up this comforting potato ham soup, you’ll only need a handful of readily available ingredients:
- Aromatic Vegetables: Start with one diced yellow onion and two stalks of celery, chopped. These form the flavorful foundation of the soup.
- Potatoes: The star of the show! You’ll need about four cups of peeled and cubed potatoes. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully, providing a creamy texture when cooked.
- Water or Broth: Four cups of water will do, but for an even richer flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth.
- Cooked Ham: Two cups of cubed cooked ham, the perfect way to repurpose leftovers. Smoked ham adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Seasonings: Enhance the savory notes with two teaspoons of chicken bouillon granules, plus salt and black pepper to taste.
- Butter and Flour for Roux: Three tablespoons of butter and ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux that thickens the soup beautifully.
- Milk: Two cups of milk, adding creaminess and richness to the final soup. Whole milk will result in a richer soup, but 2% or even skim milk can be used.
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Easy Steps to Homemade Ham and Potato Soup
Making this satisfying soup is a breeze. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
- Boil Vegetables and Ham: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the diced onion, celery, cubed potatoes, and ham with the water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Season with chicken bouillon granules, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the Roux: While the vegetables are simmering, melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux.
- Create Creamy Base: Gradually whisk in the milk into the roux, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking and cooking until the mixture thickens slightly and is smooth.
- Combine and Finish: Pour the creamy milk mixture into the pot with the ham and vegetables. Stir gently to combine everything. Heat through until warmed, but do not boil.
Serving Suggestions for Potato Ham Soup
Elevate your bowl of potato ham soup with a variety of delicious toppings. Consider shredded cheddar cheese, crispy crumbled bacon, fresh green onions, or a sprinkle of chives. For a complete and comforting meal, serve this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping and a refreshing side salad to balance the richness.
Looking for more side dish inspiration? Explore options like grilled cheese sandwiches, cornbread, or even a simple fruit salad for a delightful contrast.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
Leftover potato ham soup is perfect for enjoying the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through.
Freezing Tips: Best Practices
While freezing is not ideally recommended due to potential texture changes in potatoes and dairy separation, if you must freeze, allow the soup to cool completely first. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring frequently. Be aware that the texture might be slightly grainier than fresh soup.
Why We Love This Ham and Potato Soup
Just like the rave reviews from the Allrecipes community, you’ll find this soup to be incredibly comforting and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite, perfect for cozy nights in. Its simplicity and hearty nature make it a go-to meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, embodying the spirit of wholesome home cooking championed by the Pioneer Woman herself. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of this delightful potato ham soup!
