This Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup recipe stands out as an absolute favorite, particularly for transforming leftover holiday ham into something truly spectacular. It’s an incredibly easy-to-assemble meal that consistently delivers a rich, comforting flavor, making it a perfect addition to your family’s rotation.
Hearty & Wholesome Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Embrace the magic of soup season with this delightful Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup! There’s nothing quite like the convenience and satisfaction of tossing a handful of simple ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning and returning home to a delicious, aromatic dinner that practically cooks itself. This easy-to-make slow cooker ham and potato soup is the quintessential comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. It’s particularly beneficial after festive occasions when you find yourself with an abundance of leftover holiday ham, yet are too exhausted from all the preparation to embark on another elaborate meal. This recipe offers a quick, effortless, and incredibly satisfying solution.
Our ham and potato soup crockpot recipe is incredibly straightforward, and we’re here to share numerous tips to make it even easier and more enjoyable. You can prepare this rich and creamy soup using leftover slow cooker ham, or simply by purchasing pre-cubed ham from your local grocery store, which is readily available year-round. We adore creamy soups, especially when the weather turns cold. The harmonious blend of tender vegetables, savory cooked ham, and a lusciously creamy broth creates a profoundly comforting and delightful experience. It truly is a culinary hug in a bowl! Pair this hearty soup with one of our epic sides for soup for a complete and utterly satisfying meal.
Why Choose the Slow Cooker for Ham and Potato Soup?
The slow cooker is a true kitchen hero, especially for a recipe like this creamy ham and potato soup. Its set-it-and-forget-it nature allows you to develop deep, rich flavors without constant supervision. Low and slow cooking tenderizes the potatoes and vegetables perfectly, while allowing the savory ham to infuse its smoky essence throughout the entire broth. This method also means minimal effort on your part – just a bit of chopping, a quick stir, and then your slow cooker does all the hard work. It’s an ideal choice for busy households, meal prepping, or simply when you want a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss.
Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
Crafting an epic Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup begins with a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece. The full, printable recipe card with exact measurements and step-by-step instructions is available at the bottom of this post.
- Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for soup because their high starch content helps to thicken the broth, creating that wonderfully creamy texture we all love. You can also use Yukon Gold for a slightly waxier texture that holds its shape well.
- Carrots: Adding a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, carrots are a staple in most hearty soups. Freshly chopped is always best, but frozen can be a convenient alternative.
- Celery: Along with carrots and onions, celery forms the aromatic base (mirepoix) of the soup, adding a subtle, fresh flavor and satisfying crunch.
- Onion: Essential for building a flavorful foundation, a diced onion caramelizes slightly during cooking, adding depth and sweetness to the soup.
- Leftover Ham: The star of the show! Whether it’s holiday ham, a smoked ham hock for extra flavor, or pre-cubed ham from the store, ensure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors. Always adjust to your personal preference.
- Flour: A small amount of all-purpose flour helps to create a roux that thickens the soup, giving it a luxurious, creamy consistency. A gluten-free flour blend can be used for dietary needs.
- Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens for that indulgent, velvety texture. It adds richness and a delightful mouthfeel. Whole milk can be used as a lighter alternative, though the soup will be less creamy.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream at the end adds a tangy brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the ham and cream, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Optional Garnishes: Enhance your soup with a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a mild oniony bite and a splash of color, or a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of savory goodness that melts beautifully into the hot soup.
Recommended Equipment for Effortless Preparation
Having the right tools can make preparing this slow cooker ham and potato soup even more enjoyable and efficient. Here are a few pieces of equipment we highly recommend:
- Crockpot (Slow Cooker): An absolute essential for this recipe. We particularly recommend using a crockpot with a digital timer. This feature allows you to set the cooking duration, after which it automatically switches to a “warm” setting. This ensures your dinner is perfectly cooked without overdoing it, giving you peace of mind and flexibility in your schedule.
- Vegetable Chopper: For anyone who dreads the tedious task of chopping vegetables, a good vegetable chopper is a game-changer. It significantly cuts down on prep time, making quick work of onions, carrots, and celery, and ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- OXO Peeler: Peeling potatoes can be a chore, but with a comfortable and sharp peeler like the OXO, it becomes a breeze. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and maneuver, even when peeling large quantities of potatoes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
While the detailed recipe card below provides precise measurements and instructions, here’s a general overview of just how simple it is to bring this heartwarming dish to life in your slow cooker:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by peeling and chopping your potatoes, dicing the onion, carrots, and celery, and cubing your leftover ham. Uniformly cut vegetables ensure even cooking.
- Combine and Cook: Add the prepared potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and ham to your slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in the chicken broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic for 4 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. This slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to become wonderfully tender.
- Achieve Creamy Perfection: Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to create that signature creamy texture. Remove the lid and, using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash some of the potatoes directly in the crockpot. This helps to naturally thicken the soup. Then, whisk in the flour until no lumps remain, followed by the heavy cream and sour cream. Stir thoroughly until everything is well incorporated and the soup begins to thicken.
- Final Touches: Replace the lid and continue to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the soup to fully thicken and all the flavors to deepen. Before serving, give it one final stir. Ladle into bowls, garnish with your favorite toppings like fresh green onions or shredded cheddar cheese, and enjoy your rich, satisfying Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup!
Preparation, Storage, and Reheating Tips for Your Ham and Potato Soup
Make-Ahead Strategies for Busy Cooks:
Preparing ingredients in advance is a fantastic way to save time and streamline your cooking process. When dealing with leftover holiday ham, a smart tip is to sort it into separate containers: one for slices suitable for sandwiches, and another for smaller, miscellaneous bits and pieces. These “scraps” might not be ideal for presentation in sandwiches, but they are absolutely perfect for enhancing the flavor and texture of soups and other leftover ham recipes.
For vegetables, I often dice carrots and celery in bulk several times a month and then store them in the freezer. I portion these diced veggies into 1-cup measurements, using snack-size Ziploc bags, which perfectly fit the 1-cup volume. This foresight is incredibly helpful, especially during soup and Crockpot season, as it allows me to quickly grab pre-prepped carrots and celery without having to chop them every time I want to cook.
I typically avoid dicing and freezing onions too far in advance, as I find that the strong onion flavor can sometimes permeate and affect other items in the freezer. However, chopping onions can be tear-inducing, so my favorite trick is to use this vegetable chopper. It makes dicing onions quick, easy, and completely tear-free.
When it comes to potatoes, I usually peel them before adding them to the soup. This prevents the peels from becoming an unpleasant texture in the finished dish. An OXO Peeler makes the task of peeling potatoes effortless. However, if you appreciate the rustic flavor and nutritional benefits of potato skins, feel free to leave them on.
Proper Storage for Longevity:
To keep your delicious Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup fresh and safe for future enjoyment, ensure any leftovers are refrigerated promptly. The soup should be stored in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Properly stored, it will maintain its quality and taste in the refrigerator for three to four days.
Freezing Your Ham and Potato Soup:
Soup is one of the most freezer-friendly dishes, making it perfect for meal prep and ensuring you always have a comforting, piping-hot bowl ready at a moment’s notice. This hearty ham and potato soup freezes exceptionally well and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To prevent freezer burn and preserve its flavor and texture, always store it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. When using bags, lay them flat to freeze, which saves valuable freezer space.
Reheating for Optimal Enjoyment:
This soup reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners. You can easily warm it up using your slow cooker on a low setting, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until it reaches your desired temperature.
Exciting Recipe Variations to Explore for Your Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
Flavorful Substitutions and Enhancements:
While we thoroughly enjoy this Crock Pot soup as-is, there are many ways to customize it to your liking. For an aromatic boost, consider adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. A pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a delightful smoky depth, complementing the ham perfectly. Remember, you can make this hearty soup with leftover holiday ham, or simply use cubed ham purchased from the store, which offers convenience and availability all year round.
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives:
To transform this into a vegetarian-friendly soup, simply replace the ham with your favorite plant-based ham roast substitute or a medley of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or peas. For a fully vegan version, further substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with suitable plant-based alternatives, such as full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess, be mindful of flavor notes) or a cashew cream, and a dairy-free sour cream substitute. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth is also essential.
Gluten-Free Adaptation:
Making this ham and potato soup safe for those on a gluten-free diet is straightforward. The primary ingredient to watch is the all-purpose flour used for thickening. Easily swap it out for a gluten-free flour blend or use a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water before adding to the hot soup) for a similar thickening effect.
Spice it Up:
If you prefer your soup with a kick, consider adding some heat. Heavenly Homemakers offers a version of Crock Pot Ham and Potato Soup that incorporates Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies for a delicious spicy twist. A dash of cayenne pepper or a few shakes of hot sauce can also achieve a similar effect.
Considerations for a Sugar-Conscious Diet:
While this soup is naturally low in sugar at approximately 2 grams per serving, it’s worth noting that white potatoes are starchy and can impact blood sugar levels. Individuals managing diabetes or following a strict low-carb diet may wish to consult with a healthcare professional or consider using lower-carb vegetable substitutes for some of the potatoes, such as cauliflower or radishes, though this will alter the traditional flavor and texture.
Expert Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
Achieving the perfect bowl of creamy ham and potato soup in your slow cooker is easier with a few expert tips:
- Adjusting Thickness and Creaminess: For a thicker soup, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour (or a gluten-free thickener) or mash more of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot. If you desire an even richer, creamier soup, stir in additional heavy cream or a block of cream cheese towards the end of the cooking cycle. We’ve even seen inventive variations that include tater tots or leftover mashed potatoes for extra thickness and a unique flavor dimension.
- For Cheese Lovers: Elevate your soup experience by adding shredded cheese. Sprinkle your favorite cheese, such as sharp cheddar, Gouda, or pepper jack, over individual bowls of hot soup right before serving. The heat will melt the cheese into a wonderfully gooey, melty topping that perfectly complements the savory ham and creamy potatoes.
- Enhance Flavor with Broth: While chicken broth is standard, consider using ham broth (if you have it from cooking your ham) or a good quality vegetable broth to deepen the overall flavor profile.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Be mindful of your cooking time, especially on high heat. You want the potatoes to be tender but not completely disintegrated, unless you prefer a very smooth, blended soup.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. Ham can be quite salty, so be cautious with added salt initially.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Ham and Potato Soup
This slow cooker ham and potato soup is a meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with complementary sides. We particularly love serving it with warm, fresh biscuits or soft dinner rolls, which are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich, creamy broth.
Complementary Sides:
- BLT Pasta Salad
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Air Fryer Asparagus
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams
- Southern Style Green Beans
- Stuffed Acorn Squash with Sausage and Rice
- Crockpot Bourbon Baked Beans
- Crockpot Chicken & Stuffing
- Crockpot Corn Pudding
Hearty Main Dish Companions:
- Pringles Chicken
- Bacon Pot Pie
- Crock Pot Ribs
- Crock Pot Swedish Meatballs
- Crock Pot French Dip Sandwich
- Crock Pot Steak Stroganoff
- Crock Pot Spinach Lasagna
- Slow Cooker Chicken & Dumplings
- Crockpot Mushroom Pasta Casserole
- Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
Delightful Desserts to Follow:
- 2 Ingredient Lemon Bars
- Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling
- Orange Dreamsicle Salad
- Bisquick Peach Cobbler
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies
When to Enjoy This Heartwarming Soup
This versatile Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup is perfect for a variety of occasions, bringing warmth and comfort whenever it’s served:
- For Lunch: Serve a smaller bowl as a satisfying midday meal. Enhance it further by pairing it with a classic sandwich or a crisp side salad to make it a complete and wholesome lunch.
- For Dinner: Enjoy it as a hearty appetizer before a main course, or opt for a generous large bowl as the main meal itself. It’s robust enough to fill you up and keep you warm.
- Anytime You Have Leftover Holiday Ham: This recipe is a hero for transforming holiday leftovers into a brand new, exciting dish. It’s especially popular the day after major holidays like Christmas or Easter, offering an incredibly easy and delicious way to use up that remaining ham without any waste.
- On Cold Days: Nothing beats a warm, rustic soup on a chilly autumn or winter evening. Its comforting flavors and creamy texture are perfectly suited for warming you from the inside out.
More Delicious Leftover Ham Recipes
Don’t let any of that delicious ham go to waste! If you have more leftover ham after enjoying this soup, consider these other fantastic recipes that make the most of it:
- Funeral Sandwiches – Also known as Ham and Swiss Sliders, these are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Ham and Bean Soup – Another hearty and flavorful soup that’s incredibly easy in the slow cooker.
- Ham Mac & Cheese – A creamy, cheesy classic elevated with savory ham pieces.
- Ham and Cheese Grits – A comforting and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
- Ham and Scalloped Potatoes – A timeless casserole combining tender potatoes and flavorful ham.
Love discovering new recipes? Be sure to explore our extensive collection of copycat recipes, delectable dessert recipes, and our ever-popular CrockPot Recipes for more culinary inspiration.
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Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
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Ingredients
- 4 Potatoes 8 cups total, peeled and chopped
- 1 Onion
- 1 cup Carrots
- 1 cup Celery
- 1.5 cup Ham
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
- ¼ cup All Purpose Flour
- 1.5 cups Heavy Whipping Cream you can also use milk
- ½ cup Sour Cream
Instructions
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, ham, salt and pepper to crockpot and stir together. Add in Chicken Broth
- Cover and cook for 4 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low
- Mash some of the potatoes to a desired consistency. Add in flour, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir together.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. Stir before serving.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
- Hamburger Mix and Chop
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 216