This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheddar cheese creates a delightful soup that is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Yield: 6-8 servings
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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Combine Main Ingredients:
Place the diced ham, chicken broth, potatoes, onions, celery, carrots, garlic, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Stir well. Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. - Add Milk and Cheese:
About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, add the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Let it continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. - Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, fresh chives, or black pepper if desired.
Cooking Tips:
- Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a creamy texture.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Optional garnishes include sour cream, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy—just add everything in, and let it cook while you go about your day!
- The soup is rich and creamy, with the perfect balance of savory and cheesy flavors.
- It’s versatile—feel free to add extra vegetables or spice it up with some hot sauce for a different twist.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is the ideal comfort food for a cozy night in. Its creamy texture, delicious flavors, and ease of preparation make it a go-to meal for busy days. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or taking it to a potluck, this soup is sure to impress. Enjoy every warm, cheesy spoonful!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes! You can use other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda, but cheddar gives it the classic flavor.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Can I use pre-cooked ham?
- Yes, pre-cooked ham works just fine. Just skip the initial step of cooking the ham in the broth.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- This recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like some heat!
- What other vegetables can I add?
- You can add other vegetables like peas, corn, or leeks for variety.
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Yes, frozen vegetables are a great option and will cook just as well.
- How can I make this soup thicker?
- If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes after they’re cooked or add a cornstarch slurry.
- How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
- Leftovers will last for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Can I make this in a stovetop pot instead of a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can make it on the stove by simmering the ingredients for about 1-1.5 hours, adding the cheese and milk towards the end.