Cheddar Potato And Ham Soup
A creamy, cheesy potato and ham soup with rich flavors, perfect for comforting meals. Suitable for lunch or dinner, delightfully hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and cut up the potatoes, then boil until done.
- In a microwave-safe dish, combine Cheddar cheese and milk.
- Microwave on High for 3 minutes, then take out and stir.
- Return to microwave and cook for another 4 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked potatoes and chunks of ham to the cheese mixture.
- Add pepper to taste, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add some greens, spinach or kale can be tossed in during the simmering step. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with a mix of Gruyère and Monterey Jack for a unique flavor. Don't hesitate to add spices like garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits or fresh chives on top before serving. It also makes a comforting lunch when served with a side of sandwich made with your favorite bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Potato And Ham Soup contains roughly 2856 calories, with 62g protein, 364g carbohydrates, and 128g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value), calcium (124% of the Daily Value), and protein (123% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1342mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the texture.
Can I freeze the Cheddar Potato and Ham Soup?
While it's best fresh, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove, adding a bit more milk if needed.
What type of ham should I use?
You can use any cooked ham for this recipe, such as diced leftover ham or even deli ham. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider using smoked ham. Just ensure the ham is cut into small chunks to blend well with the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).