Ham and Potato Soup

This creamy ham and potato soup is the kind of comforting, cozy meal you crave on cold days. Made with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s an easy soup that feels hearty without being complicated. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting fresh, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Potato Soup

• A great way to use leftover ham or a ham bone
• Rich, creamy texture without being heavy
• Easy to make on the stove top, crockpot, or slow cooker
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients
• Comfort food the whole family loves

If you’re looking for an easy ham and potato soup recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, this one is a keeper.

What Makes This Soup So Flavorful

Ham and potatoes are a classic pairing for a reason. The saltiness of the ham balances perfectly with the mild, starchy potatoes, creating a soup that’s both rich and comforting. As the potatoes cook, they naturally thicken the broth, giving you a creamy ham and potato soup without needing much cream.

Best Potatoes for Ham and Potato Soup

For the creamiest texture, Russet potatoes work best. They break down slightly as they cook, helping thicken the soup naturally.

You can also use:

• Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor
• Red potatoes if you prefer firmer potato chunks
• Sweet potatoes for a twist on classic ham and potato soup

Using Leftover Ham or a Ham Bone

This recipe works beautifully with:

• Leftover holiday ham
• A ham bone for extra flavor
• Diced ham steaks

If you’re using a ham bone, let it simmer in the soup to release flavor, then remove it and add chopped ham at the end.

Stove Top Ham and Potato Soup

This ham and potato soup stove top version is perfect when you want dinner ready the same day. Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup easy and flavors deep.

Crockpot and Slow Cooker Options

This recipe also adapts easily into:

• Crockpot ham and potato soup
• Slow cooker ham and potato soup
• Crockpot potato and ham soup

Simply add all ingredients (except cream and cheese) to the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in cream or cheese at the end for the best texture.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onion, carrots, and celery
• Garlic
• Ham bone or diced ham
• Chicken broth
• Potatoes (Russet preferred)
• Bay leaf and thyme
• Black pepper
• Heavy cream or milk
• Salt, to taste

Optional additions:

• Shredded cheddar for cheesy ham and potato soup
• Beans for ham bean and potato soup
• Extra vegetables for a healthier version

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup

1. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook briefly.
3. Stir in ham bone or diced ham, broth, herbs, and potatoes.
4. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
5. Remove ham bone, blend part of the soup for creaminess.
6. Stir in cream and adjust seasoning.

This method gives you a creamy ham and potato soup with both smooth texture and hearty chunks.

Make It Cheesy

For a ham and cheese potato soup, stir in shredded cheddar or a cheese blend at the end. Keep the heat low so the cheese melts smoothly without separating.

Instant Pot Version

You can also make ham and potato soup Instant Pot style:

• Sauté vegetables using the sauté function
• Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes
• Quick release, blend slightly, and add cream

Tips for the Best Results

• Taste before adding salt — ham is naturally salty
• Blend only part of the soup for best texture
• Add more broth if it thickens too much
• Leftovers taste even better the next day

Storage and Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently on the stove
• Add a splash of broth or milk if needed

More Cozy Soup Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Chicken Soup
• Potato Leek Soup
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup
• Bean and Ham Soup

Final Note

This ham and potato soup recipe is comforting, flexible, and easy enough for beginners. Whether you make it on the stove, in a crockpot, or in an Instant Pot, it’s a reliable, family-friendly meal you’ll come back to again and again.

Complete Recipe Card of Ham and Potato Soup