There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup to bring comfort to your table. This recipe combines tender potatoes, flavorful ham, and a creamy base for a hearty dish that’s perfect for cold days or when you need a simple, satisfying meal.
Whether you’re prepping dinner for the family or planning a cozy night in, this soup is a stress-free option that simmers to perfection while you go about your day. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the onion and garlic to your slow cooker along with the potatoes, ham, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If a thicker soup is desired, mix cornstarch and water, then stir it into the soup. Allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 hours | Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 295 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction to Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together simple ingredients in a way that feels indulgent and satisfying. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or want a reliable dish for a family meal. With its creamy texture, smoky ham, and tender potatoes, it’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. Not only can you tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences, but it also fits a variety of dietary needs and meal plans. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth of taste that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. If you’re a fan of meal prepping, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored for easy, delicious meals throughout the week.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
A slow cooker is a game-changer for home cooks, especially when making soups and stews. This handy kitchen appliance allows you to combine all your ingredients and let them cook gradually, unlocking layers of flavor without constant supervision. For this ham and potato soup, the slow cooking process ensures that the ham becomes tender and infuses the broth with its smoky essence, while the potatoes break down just enough to thicken the soup naturally.
Another benefit of using a slow cooker is its convenience. It’s perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to stand over the stove. Simply prep the ingredients in the morning, set your slow cooker, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. Plus, the slow and steady heat means you’re less likely to overcook or burn the soup, making it a foolproof option for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is a delightful balance of creamy, savory, and smoky notes. The ham provides a rich, meaty base, while the potatoes add a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the boldness of the ham. Aromatic vegetables like onion, garlic, celery, and carrots enhance the soup’s depth, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
Herbs such as thyme and parsley add subtle earthy undertones, while the optional addition of heavy cream brings a velvety finish to the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of tanginess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can take the soup to the next level. This recipe is all about comfort, so feel free to customize the flavors to suit your preferences.
Health Benefits
While this soup is undeniably indulgent, it also offers several health benefits. Potatoes, the star of the dish, are an excellent source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber. These nutrients support immune health, brain function, and digestive well-being. Ham, when chosen with care, provides protein and essential minerals like zinc and selenium.
In addition to these benefits, the inclusion of vegetables like carrots and celery boosts the soup’s nutritional profile with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. For those looking to make the recipe a bit lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use lean cuts of ham to reduce the overall fat content.
Serving Suggestions
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Pair it with a crusty baguette or a slice of homemade bread to soak up every bit of the creamy broth. For a lighter accompaniment, consider a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
If you’re hosting a dinner party or holiday gathering, this soup makes an excellent starter course. Its comforting flavors and creamy texture set the tone for a cozy meal. For added flair, garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits. These toppings not only enhance the presentation but also add an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Customization
This recipe is a fantastic base that can be customized in countless ways. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Add More Vegetables: Incorporate corn, peas, or chopped spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
- Experiment with Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère for a cheesy twist.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for a lower-fat option or use unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Use Different Proteins: If ham isn’t your favorite, try cooked bacon, turkey, or even smoked sausage.
Storage and Reheating
One of the best things about Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is how well it stores. After cooking, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, use a stovetop or microwave, and stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore its original consistency.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Its creamy texture, smoky flavor, and customizable nature make it a dish you’ll want to revisit time and time again. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a dish to impress your guests, this soup is a reliable and delicious choice.
With minimal effort and maximum reward, this recipe demonstrates the magic of slow cooking. By combining simple ingredients and letting them simmer to perfection, you’ll create a dish that feels both nostalgic and luxurious. So, grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—you’re sure to fall in love with its comforting flavors and creamy goodness.