The Story & Intro
I’ll never forget a chilly winter afternoon in Crete when my grandmother first taught me how to make her creamy ham potato soup. The kitchen smelled like heaven warm, savory aromas filling every corner. She told me that the secret to a great soup was love, patience, and the perfect balance of flavors. I remember sneaking a spoonful straight from the pot and feeling instantly comforted.
Creamy ham potato soup has always been a dish that brings people together. It’s hearty, simple, and full of flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner or sharing with friends. Every time I make this soup, I feel like I’m carrying on a little tradition from my grandmother’s kitchen. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want a comforting meal, this soup is easy to prepare, and the results are always satisfying.
The combination of tender potatoes, creamy broth, and savory ham makes this soup irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile you can add a sprinkle of cheese, some fresh herbs, or even a bit of crispy bacon on top to make it extra special. 🥔🍲
Ingredients for Creamy Ham Potato Soup
- 4 cups diced potatoes 🥔
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) 🧀
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish 🌿
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add flour: Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add liquids: Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook potatoes: Add diced potatoes and thyme. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Add ham & cream: Stir in diced ham and heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through.
- Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Season & serve: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with shredded cheddar and fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy ham potato soup is perfect on its own or with warm crusty bread. Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an extra indulgent touch, add a sprinkle of crispy bacon or a drizzle of extra cream on top. 🥗🍞
Recipe Card 📝
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Ingredients: Potatoes, ham, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, flour, thyme, salt & pepper, cheddar, parsley
👩🍳 Instructions: Sauté onions & garlic, make a roux, add broth & potatoes, simmer, stir in ham & cream, garnish & serve
💡 Note: Partially blending the soup makes it creamy while keeping some texture.
🍎 Nutrition (per serving): Calories 320, Protein 18g, Carbs 28g, Fat 18g
Conclusion
Creamy ham potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. Every spoonful is warm, hearty, and full of love, just like the way my grandmother used to make it in her kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or a casual gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. 🥔🍲