This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy cheesy broth, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker. With the addition of vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrition. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, while the cheese gives it a creamy and satisfying finish. It’s the perfect soup to warm up with on a chilly day, and it’s easy enough to prepare for a busy weeknight.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Cuisine
This soup is inspired by classic American comfort food, with flavors reminiscent of hearty stews and potato soups. The slow cooker method makes it easy to prepare and perfect for any meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a family gathering.
Full List of Ingredients
- 4 cups diced ham
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
Dice the ham, potatoes, onions, celery, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic. -
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, combine the diced ham, chicken broth, diced potatoes, onions, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Stir to combine, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). -
Cook the Soup:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender. -
Add the Cream and Cheese:
Once the soup is ready, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream (or milk). Continue to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy. -
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. -
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 6%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Ham and potato soup is a classic comfort food, loved for its creamy texture and hearty ingredients. The slow cooker method has become a popular way to make soups because it allows for the flavors to develop over time without requiring constant attention. This version, with the addition of cheese, is a modern twist on the traditional recipe, offering an indulgent, cheesy finish that’s perfect for cozy meals.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and hearty soup ready in a few hours with minimal prep time.
- Comforting and Filling: The combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese makes this soup warm, filling, and satisfying—perfect for any occasion.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and is even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prepping.
- Customizable: You can add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans, or even swap the ham for bacon or sausage to suit your preferences.
Health Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, potatoes help support immune health and promote proper muscle function.
- Ham: A good source of protein, ham helps with muscle repair and provides essential vitamins like B6 and B12.
- Carrots: Carrots are packed with vitamin A, which supports eye health and boosts immunity.
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheese is a good source of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth, as well as protein for muscle repair.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of warm crusty bread or garlic bread for a comforting and filling meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette, for a balanced meal.
- Topped with Sour Cream: For extra richness, serve with a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup.
Cooking Tips
- Use a Flavorful Broth: The quality of your broth greatly affects the flavor of the soup. Use a homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.
- Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more shredded cheddar cheese to the soup for a richer, cheesier flavor.
- For a Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or mash some of the potatoes with a fork before adding the cheese and cream.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of this soup.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for cozy dinners. With its creamy texture, tender potatoes, and savory ham, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a chilly day or to share with loved ones.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can make it ahead and reheat it when needed. -
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve. -
Can I use frozen potatoes?
It’s best to use fresh potatoes, but you can use frozen diced potatoes if needed. Just make sure they are thawed before adding them to the soup. -
Can I use other types of meat instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute the ham with bacon, sausage, or chicken for a different flavor. -
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add extra vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans to the soup for added nutrition and flavor. -
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. -
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a diced jalapeño for extra heat. -
Can I make this soup in a stovetop pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stovetop. Simply cook everything in a large pot, bring it to a simmer, and cook for about 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender. -
Can I use low-fat cream or milk?
Yes, you can use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream to make the soup lighter. -
How do I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some of the potatoes in the pot.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup!