After a long day, when the chill in the air starts to settle in, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm bowl of homemade soup. I remember the first time I tossed my leftover holiday ham into the slow cooker with a few simple ingredients—it felt like a cooking revelation. The magic unfolded as the ham melded with the tender potatoes and sweet onions, creating a rich, creamy concoction that made my kitchen smell heavenly. This Easy Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup captures the essence of comfort food at its finest, transforming what could have been waste into a delicious masterpiece. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it allows you to effortlessly achieve that homey, inviting feeling we all crave. Trust me, this is one recipe that will have you looking forward to leftovers!

Why is Ham and Potato Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting and Hearty: This soup is a warm embrace on a chilly evening, perfect for filling hungry bellies.
Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, making mealtime a breeze.
Versatile Ingredients: Use up leftover ham while enjoying the creamy texture of potatoes and a burst of flavor from sweet onions.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Packed with familiar flavors, this dish is sure to delight even picky eaters.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores beautifully, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for future cozy dinners.

Ham and Potato Soup Ingredients

• Gather the essentials for a comforting bowl of Ham and Potato Soup that warms hearts!

For the Soup Base

Large Potatoes – Provide the soup’s base and texture; Yukon Gold or Russet can be used for a change in flavor.
Sweet Onions – Offer sweetness and depth; yellow onions work in a pinch.
Garlic (Cloves) – Adds robust flavor; minced garlic or garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
Chicken Broth – Serves as the savory liquid base; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian option.
Seasoned Salt/Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to your preferred taste.
Diced Ham – The star protein that brings flavor; excellent for using up leftover ham, or swap with turkey or chicken if desired.
Water – Add if you need extra liquid to cover the potatoes.

For Creaminess

Heavy Cream – Adds richness and a smooth finish; half-and-half or milk can lighten it up.
Cheddar Cheese (Shredded) – Melty goodness; try Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

For Garnish

Parsley/Chives – Brings freshness and color; substitute with green onions for a new look!

How to Make Ham and Potato Soup

Peel and Dice: Start by peeling your large potatoes and cutting them into 1-inch chunks. This ensures even cooking and a delightful texture in your soup.
Chop and Mince: Next, chop your sweet onions and mince the garlic cloves. Add these aromatic ingredients to the slow cooker for a flavorful base.
Stir in the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth along with seasoned salt and pepper. Don’t forget to add the diced ham, bringing everything together for a hearty meal.
Submerge the Potatoes: Check that your potatoes are covered with liquid. If necessary, add a bit of water to ensure every chunk is enveloped.
Cook on High: Cover the slow cooker and set it on high for 4 hours. After that, reduce the setting to low and let it cook for an additional 2-4 hours.
Add Creaminess: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the heavy cream. Switch the cooker to the warm setting to keep the soup cozy.
Mash or Blend: For a thicker texture, mash some potato chunks directly in the soup. Alternatively, use an immersion blender for a smooth consistency.
Finish with Cheese: Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Garnish your soup with parsley or chives for an extra touch of freshness.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Ham and Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftover ham and potato soup in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: This creamy soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To retain the creaminess of your ham and potato soup, reheat it slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Serving Suggestions: When ready to enjoy, consider topping with additional cheese or fresh herbs for a delightful finishing touch!

Ham and Potato Soup Variations

Let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting recipe to suit your taste preferences!

Vegetable Boost: Add chopped carrots or celery for a pop of color and added nutrition. These veggies lend a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting heat. This twist will wake up your taste buds and transform the dish into a delightful adventure!
Cheddar Swap: Instead of cheddar, try a cheese blend like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. This can change the soup’s essence to fit varied cravings.
Creamy Alternative: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that adds a light, tropical sweetness. This substitution keeps the richness while catering to dietary needs.
Savory Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added for an aromatic touch. These herbs elevate the complexity, enhancing the soup’s warmth and inviting essence.
Protein Variation: Swap out ham for diced turkey or chicken if you’re looking for alternatives. This offers a delightful change while maintaining that heartiness we love!
Zesty Freshness: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice just before serving to add brightness. This unexpected twist will lighten the dish and add a refreshing zing.
Texture Transformation: For a rustic feel, leave some potato chunks intact while blending others. This combination offers a delightful mouthfeel that balances creaminess with heartiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights. You can dice the potatoes, chop the onions, and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate the prepped ingredients in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can combine the chicken broth, seasoned salt, pepper, and diced ham in the slow cooker and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, simply add the potatoes and vegetables, cook as directed, and finish with heavy cream and cheese. This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich flavor of homemade comfort without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Ham and Potato Soup?

This creamy, comforting soup is perfect for a cozy dinner, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes to complete your meal.

Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of the soup, enhancing the overall experience.
Mixed Green Salad: The fresh, crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, adding a light and healthy element to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, bring earthy flavors that balance the creamy texture while adding nutrients and color.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic complement the savoriness of the soup, making them a delightful addition to the table.
Cheesy Cornbread: This slightly sweet, fluffy treat brings both flavor and textural variety, perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, warm apple crisp offers a sweet finish, with cinnamon and sugar making a lovely pair with the comforting soup flavors.

Expert Tips for Ham and Potato Soup

Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the soup’s liquid throughout the cooking process to ensure the potatoes stay submerged, preventing dryness and uneven cooking.
Customize Your Texture: Use a potato masher for a chunky feel or an immersion blender for a silky smooth soup. Both methods elevate your ham and potato soup experience.
Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit on the warm setting for 30 minutes before serving. This resting period helps meld the flavors beautifully.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions elevate the flavor profile. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for a homemade taste that shines.
Stay Cautious with Ham: If using frozen ham, ensure it’s diced before freezing. This keeps its texture optimal when added to the soup for a delightful bite.

Ham and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for the soup?
Absolutely! For this ham and potato soup, I recommend using large potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet. These varieties provide a creamy texture and hold up well during cooking. If you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to experiment with red potatoes—just keep the skin on for added nutrients and flavor!

How long does ham and potato soup stay fresh in the fridge?
Very! You can store your leftover ham and potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. If you find yourself with extra soup, just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, and you’ll be all set for another cozy meal!

Can I freeze ham and potato soup?
Absolutely! This soup is freeze-friendly, and you can keep it for up to 3 months. Here’s how: portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to bring back its creamy texture if needed.

What if my soup turns out too thick?
Not a problem at all! If you find that your ham and potato soup has thickened more than you like, you can easily adjust it. Just add a little bit of water or broth incrementally while stirring on low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This way, you won’t lose any of that creamy goodness!

Is this soup suitable for children?
Very much so! This ham and potato soup is packed with familiar flavors that appeal to picky eaters. The creamy, rich texture combined with tender potatoes and savory ham creates a delightful meal that children will love. Serve it alongside some crusty bread for a complete, kid-friendly dinner!

Can I use a different protein besides ham?
Of course! If you’re looking to switch things up, you can substitute diced turkey or chicken for the ham. Both options will bring their unique flavors to the soup while keeping it delicious. Just adjust the seasonings if needed, as chicken may require a bit more seasoning depending on the cut you use.