Dinner

The Best Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan April 10, 2026April 10, 2026

Introduction

This comforting ham and potato soup is a classic that’s perfect for chilly days. Creamy, hearty, and packed with savory flavors, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy the whole family.

A creamy soup in a white bowl with a red floral pattern around the rim. The soup has a light beige color with chunks of pink ham and green vegetables visible throughout. On top, there is a generous layer of shredded orange cheddar cheese and scattered pieces of sliced green onions, adding bright orange and green colors that contrast with the soup's creamy base. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
3 1/4 cups water

3/4 cup diced cooked ham
1/3 cup finely chopped celery

1/3 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves minced garlic

2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

5 tablespoons butter
5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk

Instructions

Step 1: Add the potatoes, water, ham, celery, garlic, and onion to a stockpot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in the chicken bouillon granules, black pepper, and salt.
Step 2: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: Slowly pour the milk into the butter and flour mixture, stirring continually until smooth and warmed through.

Step 4: Pour the milk mixture into the stockpot with the potatoes and ham. Stir well to combine and heat through.
Step 5: Serve the soup hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of ham and potato goodness.

Tips & Variations

For a richer texture, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.

Add shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor.
Use smoked ham for a deeper, smoky taste.
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk mixture.

Feel free to toss in other vegetables like carrots or corn for variety.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the soup in suitable containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A large, deep white bowl with a red floral border holds a creamy, thick soup with visible chunks of ham, potatoes, and green vegetables mixed throughout the pale yellow base. In the center, there is a generous pile of bright orange shredded cheddar cheese, topped with small slices of fresh green scallions. The bowl sits on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this soup without ham?

Yes, you can omit the ham for a vegetarian version. Consider adding extra vegetables or beans for protein and flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.