Introduction
When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a warm and comforting bowl of soup to soothe the soul. Enter Potato, Ham, and Cheese Soupโa hearty, creamy concoction that marries the rich flavors of potatoes, savory ham, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal any time of year, this soup recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
video instructions available below ๐
Ingredients
– 4 cups of potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup of cooked ham, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of milk or half-and-half
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Sautรฉ the Aromatics:
– In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sautรฉ until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
– Stir in the diced potatoes and cooked ham, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the pot.
– Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure the potatoes and ham are submerged.
3. Simmer Until Potatoes are Tender:
– Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, partially covered, until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture:
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth, creating a slurry.
– Gradually add the milk mixture to the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Add the Cheese:
– Once the soup has thickened slightly, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish:
– Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
– Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers for dipping and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors!
Conclusion
Potato, Ham, and Cheese Soup is the epitome of comfort foodโa warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for chilly nights or lazy weekends. With its creamy texture, hearty potatoes, savory ham, and melty cheese, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own or paired with your favorite side dishes. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner at home or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, Potato, Ham, and Cheese Soup is sure to please even the pickiest of palates. Whip up a batch, cozy up by the fireplace, and savor every spoonful of this comforting delight!
