Best Ham and Potatoes Soup Recipe for Cozy Winter Nights

When winter rolls around, nothing beats the comfort of a warm, hearty soup. One of the most satisfying options is a ham and potatoes soup recipe. This dish……

When winter rolls around, nothing beats the comfort of a warm, hearty soup. One of the most satisfying options is a ham and potatoes soup recipe. This dish combines the savory flavors of ham with the creamy texture of potatoes, creating a soup that is both filling and delicious. In this article, we will delve into the details of crafting the best ham and potatoes soup recipe to warm you up on those chilly winter evenings.

## Ingredients

To create the ultimate ham and potatoes soup recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 cups of diced ham

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 4 cups of chicken broth

- 2 cups of milk

- 1 cup of heavy cream

- 3 tablespoons of butter

- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or crumbled bacon for garnish

## Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the ham and potatoes, chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smoother.

### Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for building the base flavor of your ham and potatoes soup recipe.

### Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Ham

Next, add the diced potatoes and ham to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to start softening and the ham to release its flavors.

### Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the potato and ham mixture. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This will help thicken your soup later on.

### Step 5: Add the Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

### Step 6: Incorporate the Dairy

Once the potatoes are tender, add the milk and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired thickness. If the soup is too thick, you can add more milk or broth to thin it out.

### Step 7: Season and Garnish

Taste your ham and potatoes soup recipe and season with salt and pepper as needed. You can also add any optional garnishes at this point, such as shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, or crumbled bacon, to enhance the flavor and presentation.

## Tips for the Perfect Soup

1. **Choose the Right Potatoes**: Russet potatoes are ideal for this ham and potatoes soup recipe because they break down nicely and create a creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a slightly different flavor and texture.

2. **Use Quality Ham**: The flavor of your soup heavily depends on the quality of the ham. Opt for a good-quality, smoked ham for the best results.

3. **Adjust the Consistency**: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot before adding the dairy. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or milk.

4. **Make It Ahead**: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Consider making it a day in advance and reheating it when you're ready to serve.

5. **Add Vegetables**: For a more nutritious version, you can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas to the soup.

In conclusion, this ham and potatoes soup recipe is a versatile and comforting dish perfect for winter nights. With its rich, savory flavors and creamy texture, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy!