Ham And Potato Soup
A hearty, comforting ham and potato soup blending tender potatoes, diced ham, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners and cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart container, assemble all ingredients except salt, taking care not to heat milk beyond scalding.
- Cook for 90 minutes over a low to medium fire, stirring occasionally, since the potatoes take the longest to cook.
- Add salt gradually until it suits your taste.
- Adjust other seasonings, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before serving. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked ham or leftover ham from a previous meal. You can substitute half-and-half for some of the milk for a richer flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme can also enhance the taste. Adjust the potato variety for different textures; russets are fluffy while Yukon Golds are creamier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ham And Potato Soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a simple June Layer Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider garnishing with fresh chives or parsley for added color and flavor. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting dinner on chilly evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Ham And Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its consistency. Freezing is not recommended due to the milk content.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Potato Soup contains roughly 3267 calories, with 52g protein, 512g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (205% of the Daily Value), iron (173% of the Daily Value), and calcium (141% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use other types of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the soup, and adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ham with diced vegetables like carrots and mushrooms for added flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of milk and adjust the seasoning to enhance the taste. You may also add beans for protein.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are often preferred for their fluffy texture when cooked, but Yukon Golds can provide a creamier consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they hold their shape better and may not thicken the soup as desired.
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).