Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

My Go-To Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

As a busy working mom, time is always of the essence. I need recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying, and this cheesy ham and potato soup fits the bill perfectly. It's a hearty, flavorful soup that's perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. The best part? It's incredibly adaptable. I often use this recipe as a way to use up leftover ham from holiday roasts or special occasions, preventing food waste and saving me money. But even without leftover ham, this soup is a winner, offering a comforting blend of creamy cheese and tender potatoes.

I've tweaked this recipe over the years to suit my taste and lifestyle. For example, I've discovered I prefer this soup without celery. Some might find this unconventional, but it works for me! The absence of celery lets the flavors of the ham, potatoes, and cheese truly shine. Sometimes, I'll add a clove or two of garlic for an extra layer of savory depth. But even without it, this soup is a delicious and satisfying meal.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the cooking process is straightforward. It’s a perfect recipe for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. It’s the type of recipe that I can easily prepare after a long day at the office without sacrificing flavor or quality. The creamy texture, provided by the cheese sauce and slightly mashed potatoes, adds a touch of luxury to this otherwise simple dish. The combination of creamy cheese, savory ham, and earthy potatoes provides a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making this soup a perfect comfort food choice.

Beyond the ease of preparation and incredible taste, this soup is also quite versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Want a vegetarian version? Substitute the ham with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of cheese or add in other vegetables like peas or corn for added color and flavor. The possibilities are truly endless.

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a feeling. It’s a reminder of home, warmth, and comfort. It’s the kind of dish that evokes fond memories and invites conversation around the table. Whether you're sharing it with your family, friends, or simply enjoying a quiet evening alone, this cheesy ham and potato soup is sure to bring a smile to your face. Its versatility and delicious flavor mean it can be enjoyed any time of the year, and even be adapted into a hearty stew when serving alongside a thick slice of crusty bread. It is also extremely easy to make in bulk, offering leftovers for lunch the next day, perfect for busy schedules.

This recipe is perfect for:

• Busy weeknights
• Weekend brunches
• Potlucks and gatherings
• Using up leftover ham
• Satisfying a hearty soup craving

So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family, give this cheesy ham and potato soup a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Step-by-step

• Combine potatoes, celery, carrots, onion, ham, and water/broth in stockpot and bring to boil.
• Then cook over medium heat until potatoes are tender.
• Stir in the chicken bouillon, salt (if using), and pepper.
• In separate saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook stirring constantly until thick.
• Slowly stir in milk as not to allow lumps to form and all milk is added.
• Turn up to medium heat.
• Continue to stir until thick (4-5 minutes).
• Add in cheese and stir until melted.
• Stir the cheese mixture into the stockpot and cook until heated through.
• I also will break up some of the potatoes for thickness. It gets thicker as it cools and next day).