Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
There’s something inherently comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it features hearty ingredients and loving preparation. This recipe, “I Can’T Stop Making This Hearty Potato Soup With Ham,” evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals you can’t resist. Every time you lift a spoonful, the creaminess of potatoes combined with savory ham brings back memories of cozy family dinners. Whether you are having a long day or looking for an easy meal prep option for busy weekdays, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
What sets this potato soup apart is not merely its deliciousness but also its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. In this article, you’ll find out how to make this amazing dish, share tips to elevate the flavors, explore some exciting variations, and troubleshoot common mistakes. You’ll also learn about the best storage methods to keep the leftovers fresh for another delightful meal.
What Is I Can’T Stop Making This Hearty Potato Soup With Ham?
“I Can’T Stop Making This Hearty Potato Soup With Ham” is a delightful dish that hails from kitchens focused on comfort and satisfaction. The primary ingredient, potatoes, offers a creamy texture, making it a rich and hearty meal that warms you from the inside out. The ham adds protein and a savory depth, while the various spices enrich the overall flavor profile, making it complex yet comforting.
The stunning texture of this soup is one of its hallmarks. Each bite provides an incredibly warming sensation, layering the softness of the cooked potatoes with the tender pieces of ham. Whether you serve it on a chilly evening, as a filling lunch for the family, or even as a starter for a festive gathering, this soup is bound to bring smiles to faces around the table. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the flavors that meld perfectly during cooking creates a satisfying bowl of goodness you will want to return to time and again.
Why You’ll Love This
There are numerous reasons you’ll fall in love with this potato soup. First and foremost, the flavor combination is absolutely irresistible. The pairing of creamy potatoes and savory ham creates a comforting dish, perfect for any season. Not only does it taste delightful, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. If you’re a busy parent or someone just starting out in the kitchen, this is the perfect recipe to showcase your skills.
Many believe soup-making is daunting, but that’s a common misconception. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you will find that crafting this soup can even be a fun kitchen experience. One of the key benefits of this dish is its cost-effectiveness. Potatoes and ham are budget-friendly, allowing you to create a filling meal without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that accommodates healthy adjustments; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or opt for a lower-sodium ham option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Potatoes: About 6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into cubes. They serve as the base of the soup and will provide that creamy texture.
- Ham: 2 cups of cooked ham, diced. It adds a savory flavor and protein, making the soup hearty.
- Onions: 1 medium onion, finely chopped. The onions provide a sweet and aromatic base to the soup.
- Carrots: 2 medium carrots, diced. They add a bit of sweetness and color to the dish.
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced. Celery adds crunch and enhances the broth’s flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. This ingredient gives a robust flavor that elevates the entire soup.
- Chicken broth: 4 cups. It forms the liquid base to cook the soup and accentuates the flavors of other ingredients.
- Milk or cream: 1 cup. It adds creaminess to the soup; opt for whole milk for a richer taste.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. Seasoning is essential for bringing out the flavors in your soup.
- Parsley: Fresh or dried parsley for garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh flavor at the end.
Each of these ingredients plays a significant role in creating a balanced and flavorful dish. Feel free to explore substitutions, like using a different type of meat or adding extra vegetables to cater to your preferences or dietary restrictions.
How to Make
- Start by peeling the potatoes and chopping them into bite-sized cubes. Make sure all pieces are even, so they cook uniformly. Place the diced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions and cook until they become transparent, usually about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any burning.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot, continuing to stir for another 3-4 minutes. The vegetables should start to soften, and you’ll notice the delightful aromas filling your kitchen. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for developing flavors!
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Drain the water from the bowl with the potatoes and add them to the pot. Then, pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher to partially mash some of the cubes in the pot. This adds creaminess while still leaving some texture. If you’d like a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the diced ham and pour in the milk or cream. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to marry the flavors together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.
- Lastly, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Enjoy your hearty potato soup warm, best accompanied by crusty bread or a simple salad!
The aroma of this soup cooking will fill your home with warmth and charm, making it ever-so inviting. Each step is designed to cultivate flavor while allowing for flexibility. Remember, this soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition waiting to begin!
Variations & Substitutions
Cheesy Variation: If you love cheese, this variation is for you! Add 1-2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese when you stir in the milk or cream. The cheese will melt beautifully and create an irresistibly creamy texture and flavor profile. This is perfect for cheese lovers and adds a lovely richness to the soup.
Vegetarian Adaptation: For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ham with diced tofu or chickpeas to maintain protein content. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to ensure it’s fully vegetarian. This version is lighter yet still offers the comforting texture you’d expect from potato soup.
Spicy Kick Variation: If you enjoy spices, consider adding chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed onions and carrots for a spicy kick. This adjustment transforms your potato soup into a flavorful fiesta, pleasing for those who love a bit of heat in their dishes.
Herb-Infused Twist: By infusing your broth with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, you can introduce a more aromatic character to your soup. Simply add a few sprigs while the soup simmers, and remove before serving. This is an excellent choice if you’re looking to elevate the soup’s complexity.
Loaded Potato Soup Style: For a variation akin to loaded baked potatoes, top the finished soup with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions. This will make for an even heartier, more indulgent dish that could easily serve as a complete meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is straightforward, small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. One of the most common mistakes is cutting the potatoes too large, which may prevent them from cooking evenly. Always ensure that your potato pieces are relatively uniform for consistent texture.
Another error is not seasoning at different stages. To achieve the best flavor, it’s crucial to add seasoning throughout the cooking process rather than just at the end. This allows the seasonings to seep into the ingredients and truly enhance their flavors.
Lastly, be careful with the milk or cream—adding it too early can cause it to curdle if the soup is boiling. Always allow the soup to cool slightly before stirring in dairy products, ensuring a creamy finish without any lumps. Always keep an eye on the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking at the bottom!
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Storing your hearty potato soup should be straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days, making it perfect for leftovers.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider doing so before adding cream or milk. Potatoes can become grainy when frozen, so it’s often better to freeze the soup without the dairy. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, labeling them with the date. It should last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost in the refrigerator or microwave.
When reheating, do it gently over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are commonly used for their starchiness, you can also experiment with Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They will provide a different texture and flavor, making your soup unique. Just remember that different potatoes might alter the creaminess, so choose according to your preference.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! The basic recipe does not include any gluten-containing ingredients. However, always double-check the packaging of your chicken broth, as some brands may contain gluten. Opt for a gluten-free certified broth to be safe.
Can this soup be made in a slow cooker?
Definitely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, follow the initial steps of sautéing the onion, carrot, and celery but then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream just before serving!
Can I add other vegetables? What are some suggestions?
Yes, feel free to incorporate other vegetables! Some great additions include corn, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly alongside your potatoes.
What’s the ideal way to serve the soup? Any suggestions?
Serving suggestions can make a significant difference! This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or a fresh green salad. Topping it with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, and fresh herbs can also elevate the meal, making it even more satisfying.
Conclusion:
I Can’T Stop Making This Hearty Potato Soup With Ham is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with warmth, flavor, and comfort. Its simplicity combined with endless potential for customization makes it a recipe you will return to again and again. I encourage you to try this hearty soup, put your twist on it, and share it with family and friends. With every bowl, you’ll be crafting not just a dish but a warm memory waiting to happen. Enjoy every sip and embrace the joy of cooking!
