Ham-N-Potato Church Soup
A hearty, creamy ham and potato soup featuring melted cheese, savory ham, and onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown butter in a large pot; add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Add one gallon of milk to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Mix 6 to 7 cups of flour with some milk to make a smooth paste, then add to the boiling milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add Velveeta cheese, salt, pepper, and chicken base to the thickened mixture; stir until cheese is melted and seasonings are well incorporated.
- Add the remaining hot milk, cubed ham, cooked shredded potatoes, and stir to combine. Heat through and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of some of the milk. You can also substitute the Velveeta cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor. If you want a lighter version, try using a low-fat butter alternative. Be mindful of salt, especially if your ham is already salty; taste before adding extra.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with One Dish Potatoes for a comforting dinner. For a bit of crunch, consider topping each bowl with crispy fried onions. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can cause the soup to separate or become grainy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-N-Potato Church Soup contains roughly 455 calories, with 14g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 673mg per serving (29% 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, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes is ideal since they hold their shape well when cooked and add a nice creaminess to the soup. If using leftovers, make sure they are well-shredded to blend nicely with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While you can freeze this soup, the texture may change once thawed due to the dairy and potatoes. If freezing, leave out the milk and add it fresh when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months for best results.
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).