Creamy Potato and Ham Soup (Classic Comfort Food)

There are few things more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy potato and ham soup. Rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this classic soup is the definition of cozy home cooking. With tender potatoes, savory chunks of ham, and a smooth, creamy broth, it’s the kind of meal that feels familiar, filling, and incredibly comforting from the very first spoonful.

This recipe is designed to be both easy and reliable. It uses simple ingredients, comes together in one pot, and delivers consistent results every time. Whether you’re cooking for a cold winter night, using leftover ham, or just craving an old-fashioned soup that sticks to your ribs, this potato and ham soup is always a good idea.

Why This Creamy Potato and Ham Soup Is So Good

The secret to an outstanding homemade potato and ham soup lies in balance. The potatoes break down slightly as they cook, naturally thickening the broth, while milk and cream add richness without making the soup heavy. The ham brings salt and smoky depth, and the vegetables add sweetness and structure.

Instead of relying on shortcuts, this recipe builds flavor the traditional way — sautéing aromatics, creating a light roux, and simmering slowly until everything comes together in a smooth, cohesive soup that tastes like it’s been passed down for generations.

Ingredients

• Butter
• Yellow onion, diced
• Celery, diced
• Carrots, diced
• Garlic, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken broth
• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• Cooked ham, diced
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook 6–8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir well to form a roux. Cook 1–2 minutes.
5. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Add diced potatoes and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
8. Stir in diced ham, milk, and cream.
9. Simmer another 10 minutes until thick and creamy.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve hot with optional garnishes.

Creamy Potato and Ham Soup

A rich and comforting soup made with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a smooth creamy broth.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Dinner, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 yellow onion diced
• 2 stalks celery diced
• 2 carrots diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups potatoes peeled and diced
• 2 cups ham diced
• 1.5 cups milk
• 0.5 cup heavy cream
• salt to taste
• black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Knife

Method

 

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Cook onion, celery, and carrots until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and flour; cook briefly.
4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth.
5. Add potatoes and simmer until tender.
6. Stir in ham, milk, and cream.
7. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.

Notes

Soup thickens as it cools.

Creamy Texture Without Being Heavy

This ham and potato soup achieves its creamy consistency without overwhelming the dish. The potatoes naturally thicken the soup, while the milk and cream enhance smoothness. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. For a smoother texture, blend a portion and stir it back in.

Tips for the Best Potato and Ham Soup

Choose the right potatoes
Russet potatoes create a thicker soup, while Yukon Golds add a buttery texture.

Don’t rush the roux
Cooking the flour briefly removes any raw taste and ensures a smooth broth.

Add salt gradually
Ham can vary in saltiness, so always taste before adding extra salt.

Use leftover ham
This recipe is perfect after holidays when leftover ham is plentiful.

Easy Variations

• Cheesy Version: Stir in shredded cheddar at the end
• Vegetable Boost: Add corn or peas
• Extra Smoky: Use smoked ham or add a pinch of smoked paprika
• Lighter Option: Use all milk instead of cream

What to Serve With Creamy Potato and Ham Soup

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its richness:

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Buttermilk biscuits
• Side salad with vinaigrette
• Grilled cheese sandwich

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (texture may soften slightly)
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding milk if needed

A Soup Rooted in Tradition

Potato and ham soup has long been a staple in home kitchens because it’s economical, nourishing, and incredibly comforting. Combining affordable ingredients with preserved meat made it a reliable meal for families across generations — and today, it remains just as beloved.

Final Thoughts

This creamy potato and ham soup is the kind of recipe you keep in your regular rotation. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly satisfying — the perfect example of how humble ingredients can create something truly special.