HAM AND POTATO CHEDDAR SOUP

This rich and creamy Ham and Potato Cheddar Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food. Made with tender diced potatoes, savory cooked ham, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup delivers the perfect balance of hearty texture and cheesy flavor. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner and delicious enough to serve guests. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal everyone will love — especially on cold or rainy days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
• 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
   
2. Stir in potatoes and ham. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
   
3. Stir in milk and cream. Slowly add the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted. If you'd like a thicker soup, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Add pepper, paprika, and salt to taste. Adjust consistency with more milk or broth if needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar if desired. Serve with warm crusty bread or crackers.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with warm, crusty sourdough, garlic bread, or buttermilk biscuits for dunking.
• Add a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, extra shredded cheddar, or crispy bacon bits for more flavor and texture.
• Pair with a light green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad.

Tips:

• Use leftover holiday ham for extra flavor.
• For a smokier touch, add a few dashes of smoked paprika or a bit of cooked bacon.
• Swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

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🖨️ Printable recipe/ Download PDF

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