This Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is super comforting and creamy! It’s packed with tender potatoes, smoky ham, and lots of cheesy goodness. Perfect for chilly days!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up. On a busy day, I can make this soup, toss in some bread, and call it dinner—no fuss, just smiles around the table!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet are ideal for this soup. They create a creamy texture. You can, however, substitute with red potatoes for a firmer bite or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
Ham: Cooked ham adds depth of flavor. If you don’t have ham, try using diced bacon or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a different but still tasty option.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is great for its strong flavor. If you’re a fan of other cheeses, feel free to swap in Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Just keep in mind the cheese should melt well.
Broth: Chicken broth is used here, but vegetable broth is a fantastic vegetarian alternative. It maintains the soup’s rich flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
Milk: For creaminess, regular milk works well. You can also use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version, but go for unsweetened to prevent flavor clashes.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Soup?
Texture is key in a good soup. Start by sautéing the vegetables. This step boosts their flavors and softens them before adding the broth. Make sure to stir in the flour to thicken the soup, and cook it long enough so it doesn’t taste raw.
- Melt butter and sauté celery, carrots, and onions for just about 5 minutes until tender.
- When adding flour, make sure it coats the veggies thoroughly to create a smooth soup.
- Gradually add the broth and stir continuously. This helps avoid lumps and ensures a consistent texture.
- Monitor the simmering time. Cook potatoes until they’re soft but not mushy—about 15-20 minutes.
How to Make Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 1 cup diced ham (cooked)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: extra shredded cheese and chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup will take about 40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing your ingredients and another 30 minutes cooking it all up. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery, diced carrots, and half of the chopped green onions. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and smell great.
2. Add the Potatoes and Spices:
Now, stir in the diced potatoes along with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
3. Thicken the Soup Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the veggie mixture. Stir it in well to coat everything. You’ll want to let it cook for an additional minute to get rid of that raw flour taste.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Bring the soup to a boil—then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nice and tender.
5. Add Ham and Milk:
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the milk and diced ham. Allow this to heat through for about 5 minutes, stirring gently.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the star of the show! Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until it’s melted and combined into the soup. Yum!
7. Adjust and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick for your liking, feel free to add a little more milk or broth to reach your preferred consistency. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining chopped green onions and a sprinkle of extra cheese, if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy ham and potato soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese works great for flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a combination for extra creaminess. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch. If using water, consider adding additional seasonings or a bouillon cube to enhance the flavor of your soup.
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just sauté them along with the celery and carrots for the best results!
