Potato-Ham Soup
Creamy and hearty, Potato-Ham Soup combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich milk base for comforting warmth. Its simple ingredients and robust flavors make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that's easy to prepare and immensely flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes, chopped onion, and salt in water to cover and boil for 15 minutes.
- Add margarine and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Add chopped ham and cook for another 5 minutes, then add the milk.
- Heat through and serve, ensuring not to boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding the milk. If you don’t have whole milk, you can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of low-fat milk and cream. Adding vegetables like carrots or celery can enhance the flavor profile. For a healthier twist, use turkey ham instead of regular ham. This soup pairs wonderfully with a Spinach Salad With Poppy Seed Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly cracked pepper or chopped chives for added flavor. It goes well with crusty bread or a side salad, like A La Green Beans, for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, pair it with a simple sandwich or a side of Meat Dip to create a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover potato-ham soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Avoid boiling the soup again, as it may change the texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in portions for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato-Ham Soup contains roughly 1999 calories, with 26g protein, 248g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (89% of the Daily Value), calcium (78% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1882mg per serving (82% 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 different types of potatoes for this soup?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Each will provide a slightly different texture and flavor. Just make sure to cube them evenly for consistent cooking. Avoid using waxy potatoes, as they may not break down as well and could result in a less creamy soup.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this potato-ham soup, omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tempeh for added texture. Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the potatoes. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or peas to enhance the nutritional value.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find the soup too thick, simply add more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently while stirring to incorporate the liquid. If you want to add even more flavor, consider using a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to thin it out, which will enhance the overall taste.
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).