If you are searching for a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug after a chilly day, you’re going to adore this Ham and Potato Soup. It’s a rich blend of creamy potatoes, savory ham, and aromatic herbs all coming together in a luscious, velvety broth. Every spoonful offers satisfying textures and homey flavors that feel totally nourishing and indulgent at the same time. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Ham and Potato Soup never fails to deliver on both taste and heartwarming satisfaction.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Ham and Potato Soup are simple but incredibly important. Each one brings its own magic to the table—whether it’s butter for richness, garlic and herbs for aroma, or Yukon gold potatoes for that creamy, velvety texture that makes this soup so irresistible.

5 tablespoons butter: Provides the perfect base to sauté the vegetables and adds a rich, silky flavor to the soup.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that builds the foundation of the soup’s flavor.
1 cup sliced carrot: Introduces a gentle earthiness and a pop of natural sweetness to balance the savory ham.
1 cup sliced celery: Gives a subtle crunch and fresh aroma, enhancing the overall texture.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Intensifies the flavor with its warm, aromatic punch.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb mix that lifts the soup with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
1/2 teaspoon ground sage: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery note that complements the ham beautifully.
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup into a luscious, creamy consistency.
3 cups diced Yukon gold potatoes: Perfect for absorbing flavors while becoming wonderfully creamy and tender.
2 cups cooked cubed ham: The star protein, bringing smoky, savory richness in every bite.
4 cups chicken stock or chicken broth: Creates the flavorful base that ties all ingredients together.
1 bay leaf: Adds subtle herbal depth and enhances the soup’s aroma.
1 cup heavy cream: Rounds out the soup with silky smoothness and mild sweetness.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.
Shredded cheese and sliced chives for garnish: Give the final touch of richness and vibrant color.

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting the 5 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion, sliced carrot, and celery along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook these vegetables for about 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they soften and develop a subtle sweetness. This forms the flavorful aromatic base that every great soup needs.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Turn the heat down to medium, then stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, ground sage, plus a couple more pinches of salt and pepper. Cook everything together for about one minute, ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant without burning. These fresh herbs start layering in some complex savory notes that are key to the soul of this soup.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about one more minute. This step is crucial because the flour combines with the butter and vegetables to create a roux, which will thicken your Ham and Potato Soup beautifully, giving it that lovable creamy texture.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom—this is flavor gold! It’s an essential step that adds depth and richness to your soup.

Step 5: Add Potatoes, Ham, and Stock

Next, toss in the diced Yukon gold potatoes, cooked cubed ham, the rest of the chicken broth, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a medium or medium-low to cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This slow simmer lets all the flavors meld perfectly.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Seasoning

When your potatoes are wonderfully tender, stir in the heavy cream to add that luxurious creaminess that makes Ham and Potato Soup so satisfying. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper until it suits your palate.

How to Serve Ham and Potato Soup

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, top it off with shredded cheese and sliced chives. The cheese adds an irresistible gooey richness while the chives give a fresh brightness and a punch of color. These simple garnishes make each serving feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette creates a nice contrast to the creamy soup. For a heartier meal, you can serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a slice of quiche for a cozy, well-rounded dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Ham and Potato Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, rustic presentation that doubles as an edible vessel. Or garnish with crispy pancetta or smoky bacon bits for an extra flavor punch. Offering a tray of assorted toppings like sour cream, extra herbs, or hot sauce allows everyone to customize their bowls and enjoy the soup their way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Ham and Potato Soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Just remember to remove any garnishes before storing.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. For best results, cool it completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Keep in mind that cream-based soups sometimes change texture after freezing, so give it a good stir while reheating to bring it back to its creamy best.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often to ensure even warming and to break up any lumps. Adding a splash of extra broth or cream can help refresh the silken texture. Avoid boiling as it can cause cream to separate.

FAQs

Can I use smoked ham versus regular ham for this soup?

Absolutely! Smoked ham adds an extra layer of smoky depth that really enhances the overall flavor, making your Ham and Potato Soup even more savory and satisfying.

What type of potatoes work best in Ham and Potato Soup?

Yukon gold potatoes are ideal because their waxy texture holds up well during cooking and they break down just enough to create creaminess without turning mushy.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or gluten-free?

You can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping the ham for hearty mushrooms and using vegetable broth in place of chicken stock. For gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickener.

Is it possible to add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with corn, peas, or even kale for added nutrition and variety. Just add them at the appropriate cooking stage so they remain tender but not overcooked.

How thick should Ham and Potato Soup be?

The perfect Ham and Potato Soup is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without being overly dense. It should be creamy and smooth while still easy to ladle and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Ham and Potato Soup enough — it’s pure comfort in a bowl, combining cozy textures and rich, hearty flavors that truly satisfy. It’s straightforward to make yet feels so special, making it a go-to for any occasion when you want to nurture yourself and your loved ones. Go ahead, give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite recipes too!