Easy One Pot Ham Potato Soup Creamy and Delicious Dish

Are you ready for a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out? My Easy One Pot Ham Potato Soup is creamy, filling, and packed with flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll have a delicious dish the whole family will love. Join me as we dive into this easy recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week!

Ingredients for Easy One Pot Ham Potato Soup

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups diced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)

– 1 cup diced cooked ham

– 1 onion, chopped

– 2 carrots, diced

Other Ingredients

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup milk (or cream for a richer taste)

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning and Garnish

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried parsley

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Gathering fresh ingredients is key. Diced potatoes add texture and body. Diced ham brings flavor and protein. Chopped onion adds sweetness. Diced carrots give color and crunch.

You can’t skip the celery. It adds a nice crunch and depth. Chicken broth forms the soup’s base. Milk or cream makes it rich and creamy. Minced garlic boosts the overall taste.

For seasoning, dried thyme and parsley enhance the soup. Salt and pepper bring everything together. If you like, fresh chives add a lovely touch at the end.

These ingredients make the soup tasty and warm. They create a comforting dish you will love to share.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

To start, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes. You want them to be soft but not brown. This mix adds a nice base to your soup.

Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1 more minute. Garlic gives the soup a rich flavor and aroma.

Combining Main Ingredients

Now it’s time to build the heart of our soup. Stir in 2 cups of diced potatoes and 1 cup of diced cooked ham. Make sure everything is mixed well. The potatoes soak up the flavors from the ham and veggies.

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. This adds depth and richness to the soup. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.

Cooking the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil. This step helps meld all the flavors. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Check until the potatoes are tender.

This is the time for the flavors to shine. The soup will smell amazing!

Final Steps

Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in 1 cup of milk or cream. If you want a richer taste, choose cream. Let it warm through for about 5 minutes.

Now, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings. Add more salt or pepper if needed. If you like, garnish with fresh chives before serving. Enjoy your creamy, delicious ham potato soup!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Soup

Choosing the Right Pot

Using a large pot is key for making great soup. A big pot allows space for all the ingredients to mix well. This helps the soup cook evenly and prevents it from burning. I always use a pot that holds at least six quarts. That way, I have enough room for the diced potatoes and ham.

Variations in Ingredients

You can change the meat in this soup if you like. Try using turkey or chicken instead of ham. This gives the soup a new taste. You can also add seasonal vegetables. For example, in spring, add peas or asparagus. In fall, try adding squash or pumpkin. Each season brings fresh flavors to your soup.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your soup with bread makes it a hearty meal. I love to serve it with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls. It’s perfect for dipping! You can also garnish the soup with fresh chives. They add color and a mild onion flavor. This simple touch makes your dish look even more inviting.

Variations of Easy One Pot Ham Potato Soup

Creamy Variants

You can make this soup even creamier. Adding cheese gives it a rich flavor. Try sharp cheddar or creamy brie. Both melt well and taste great. You can also use different kinds of milk. Whole milk makes it richer, while skim milk keeps it lighter. For an extra treat, use cream for a thick base.

Spicy Twist

Want to spice things up? Add jalapeños for a kick. Slice them thin and stir them in. If you like heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. It adds warmth without changing the flavor too much. You can also use spices like paprika for a smoky taste. This twist makes the soup fun and exciting.

Vegetable Additions

You can boost nutrition by adding greens. Spinach or kale works well in this soup. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking. They wilt down and blend nicely. If you want a sweeter taste, swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. They add a new layer of flavor and color.

Storage Info for Leftover Soup

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftover soup, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. Your ham potato soup will last about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells sour or looks odd, it’s best to toss it.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the soup if you want to keep it longer. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. This soup can last up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw.

Reheating Tips

Reheat your soup on the stove for the best results. Use medium heat and stir often. This helps to warm the soup evenly. You can also use a microwave. Pour the soup into a bowl and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid overcooking, as that can ruin the creamy texture.

FAQs about Easy One Pot Ham Potato Soup

How to make the soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, choose gluten-free chicken broth. Many brands offer this option. You can also use vegetable broth if you prefer. For thickening, skip flour. Instead, use cornstarch mixed with water. This simple swap keeps the soup creamy without gluten.

What can I substitute for ham?

If you want a different protein, use diced turkey or chicken. These options work well. For a vegetarian choice, try adding beans or lentils. They add protein and fiber. You can also use mushrooms for a savory flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time. Make it in the morning and let it cool. Store it in the fridge. The flavors will blend as it sits. When ready to eat, just heat it gently. This soup tastes even better the next day!

This one-pot ham potato soup is simple and satisfying. You need basic ingredients like potatoes, ham, and onions. Cooking is straightforward, with easy steps that anyone can follow. You can also try variations like adding cheese or spices for extra flavor.

In the end, this soup offers warmth and comfort. It’s great for any meal and easy to store. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is a winner. You’ll enjoy the flavors and simplicity of this dish time after tim