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Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Cozy up with a bowl of this Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup! Creamy, hearty, and packed with smoky ham & melty cheddar—this is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

  • ✔️ Mixing bowls

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 medium carrots diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 stalks celery diced (about ½ cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes peeled & diced (about 5-6 medium)
  • 2 cups cooked ham diced
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1 cup whole milk

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped fresh chives or green onions
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Crispy bacon bits
  • Sour cream or crème fraîche

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  • 1️⃣ In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
  • 2️⃣ Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  • 3️⃣ Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • 4️⃣ Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux.

Step 2: Build the Soup

  • 5️⃣ Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
  • 6️⃣ Stir in thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and potatoes.
  • 7️⃣ Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Goodness

  • 8️⃣ Stir in ham, heating for 2-3 minutes. Remove bay leaf.
  • 9️⃣ Add milk and Dijon mustard, stirring gently.
  • 🔟 Slowly add grated cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  • 🔹 Taste and adjust seasoning with salt & pepper.
  • 🔹 Ladle into bowls, garnish as desired, and serve hot!

Notes

💡 Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat.
❄️ Freezing: Freeze without cheese and milk for up to 3 months. Add dairy after reheating.
🔥 Thicker Soup? Mash some potatoes or blend a portion of the soup.
🌱 Make it Lighter: Substitute half the potatoes with cauliflower.
🌮 Southwest Twist: Add corn, black beans, and pepper jack cheese for a bold flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 18gFat: 21gSodium: 750mg
Keyword Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup, comfort food, Easy Soup Recipe
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