Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

Savor the heartiness of ham and the creaminess of potatoes in this slow cooker soup recipe. It's an effortless dish that you can prepare in the morning and let your slow cooker do the rest. The result is a soul-warming soup that's perfect for a chilly evening.

Photos of Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is made with everyday ingredients that are easily found. However, the ham can be fresh, leftover, or pre-cooked, so bear this in mind when you're at the supermarket. The recipe calls for russet potatoes, but you could substitute with other varieties, just note that this may affect cooking time and overall texture.

Ham and Potato Soup Ingredients

russet potatoes: A starchy potato that holds its shape well when cooked.

yellow onion: Adds a slightly sweet, caramelized flavor when cooked.

carrots: Offers sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.

celery: Provides a mild spicy, aromatic, and pleasant taste.

ham: The main protein that gives a salty, savory flavor.

kosher salt: Slightly coarser than table salt, and gives a quick flavor burst.

black pepper: Adds a spicy kick.

flour: Used to thicken the soup.

chicken broth: Gives depth of flavor. Can be substituted with vegetable broth if desired.

heavy cream: Gives a thick, creamy texture.

sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy consistency.

One reader, Jock Schneider says:

This slow cooker ham and potato soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the prep is a breeze. It's the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. I love how the ham adds a savory depth to the soup. It's become a family favorite!

Jock Schneider

Cooking Techniques for Perfecting This Slow Cooker Recipe

How to prepare the ingredients: Wash and peel the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Dice the potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces. Cut the ham into small cubes.

How to cook in a slow cooker: Add the prepared potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, ham, kosher salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 7 to 8 hours, or on high for about 4 to 5 hours.

How to thicken the soup: Using a potato masher, mash about ⅓ of the potatoes in the slow cooker. Then, add the flour, heavy cream, and sour cream, and stir everything together to thicken the soup.

How to finish the soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

How to serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Enjoy!

How To Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

A simple hearty potato soup loaded with sweet carrots and tender chunks of ham, slow-cooked in milk and sour cream for warm and filling meal.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8cupsrusset potatoes,diced
1yellow onion,diced
2large carrots,peeled, chopped
½cupcelery,chopped
16ozham,(2 packages), cubed, like Smithfield Anytime Favorites™ Cubed Ham
1tspkosher salt
¼tspfresh cracked black pepper
¼cupflour
4cupschicken broth
1½cupsheavy cream,or whole milk
½cupsour cream

Instructions

Add the potatoes, onion, carrot, celery, ham, Kosher salt, pepper, and chicken broth to slow cooker.
Cook on Low for about 7 to 8 hours, or on High for about 4 to 5 hours.
Using a potato masher, mash about ⅓ of the potatoes. Add the flour, heavy cream, and sour cream, then stir everything together.
Cover and cook on High for about 15 minutes.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 464.91kcal
Fat: 25.89g
Saturated Fat: 14.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.68g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.55g
Carbohydrates: 41.58g
Fiber: 3.69g
Sugar: 6.10g
Protein: 17.65g
Cholesterol: 104.53mg
Sodium: 999.10mg
Calcium: 94.65mg
Potassium: 1070.20mg
Iron: 2.31mg
Vitamin A: 361.62µg
Vitamin C: 13.87mg

A Helpful Technique for Enhancing the Flavor of Your Soup

When mashing the potatoes in the slow cooker, be sure to leave some chunks for texture. This will give your ham and potato soup a hearty and satisfying consistency. Additionally, when adding the flour, it's best to sprinkle it evenly over the soup and stir well to prevent clumping. This will ensure your soup has a smooth, thick texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Ham and Potato Soup

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients the night before, so you can quickly assemble the soup in the morning.

Use pre-cut ham: Save time by using pre-cut ham from the deli section of your grocery store.

Slow cook: Let the slow cooker do the work for you, allowing the flavors to meld together while you attend to other tasks.

Quick mash: Use a potato masher to quickly mash the potatoes in the slow cooker for a creamy texture without the need for additional equipment.

One-pot meal: This recipe is a complete meal in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.

Leftover magic: Repurpose leftover ham from a previous meal to make this soup, saving time and reducing food waste.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

russet potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a similar texture and flavor to russet potatoes, making them a suitable substitute for this recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions, but they can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
celery - Substitute with celery seed: Celery seed can provide a concentrated celery flavor and can be used as a substitute for fresh celery in soups.
ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can provide a similar smoky flavor and texture to ham in the soup.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the soup, making it a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy element similar to sour cream in the soup.

Presenting Your Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

Elevate the soup with a garnish: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the soup with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of finely chopped chives. This will enhance the visual appeal and add a layer of sophistication to the dish.
Serve in a bread bowl: Create a memorable dining experience by serving the ham and potato soup in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl. This not only adds a rustic charm to the presentation but also allows the flavors of the soup to meld with the bread, creating a delightful combination.
Incorporate a side of artisanal crackers: Pair the soup with a selection of artisanal crackers such as rosemary and sea salt or multigrain varieties. Arrange them artfully on the side of the bowl to provide a textural contrast and an additional element of flavor.
Add a touch of color with microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of vibrant microgreens on top of the soup just before serving. The pop of color will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.
Present in elegant soup bowls: Opt for elegant soup bowls with a classic design to showcase the rich, creamy texture of the soup. The choice of vessel can elevate the overall dining experience and leave a lasting impression on the discerning palates of the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Soup Recipe

Slow cooker: A kitchen appliance used for cooking food at low temperatures over an extended period of time, making it perfect for slow-cooking soups and stews.
Potato masher: A handheld tool used to mash cooked potatoes, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture in the soup.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients such as onions, carrots, and celery.
Knife: Essential for chopping and dicing ingredients like onions, carrots, and celery.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients such as flour, salt, and pepper for the soup recipe.
Whisk: Used for blending and mixing the flour, heavy cream, and sour cream into the soup, ensuring a smooth consistency.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, perfect for serving the delicious ham and potato soup.
Soup bowls: Used for serving the warm and comforting ham and potato soup to enjoy.

Storing and Freezing Your Slow Cooker Soup

Let the ham and potato soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and the contents.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the soup, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Soup

Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and prevent the cream from curdling or separating.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream to separate.
For a quick and easy lunch, portion the leftover soup into microwave-safe containers and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply remove the container from the fridge, loosen the lid, and microwave until hot.
If you find that the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration, you can thin it out by adding a little chicken broth or milk while reheating. This will help restore its original consistency.
For a crispy twist, serve the reheated soup with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and some crumbled bacon on top. The heat from the soup will melt the cheese, creating a deliciously gooey and savory topping.

A Fascinating Fact About Ham and Potato Soup

Ham and Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a cozy night in. It's a hearty and delicious dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Soup Recipe Economical?

This slow cooker ham and potato soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as potatoes, onion, carrots, and ham makes it a budget-friendly option. The addition of heavy cream and sour cream elevates the flavor without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a great economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Comforting Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker ham and potato soup recipe, while comforting and delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The recipe is high in saturated fat from the heavy cream and sour cream, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues if consumed in excess
The sodium content is likely high due to the ham and added salt, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems
The recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery, which provide essential nutrients and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat content
Use a low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of added salt to decrease the overall sodium content
Increase the number of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the nutrient and fiber content
Use lean ham or turkey ham to reduce the fat content, or replace some of the ham with additional vegetables
Serve the soup with a side salad or a piece of whole-grain bread to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting soup into a more balanced and nutritious dish that still satisfies your taste buds.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Comforting Soup Recipe

This slow cooker ham and potato soup recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ham, and creamy broth creates a rich and satisfying flavor. The addition of heavy cream and sour cream adds a luxurious creaminess to the soup, making it a truly indulgent treat. The use of a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious and comforting soup that's sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Twist up some homemade garlic parmesan breadsticks to dip into your ham and potato soup.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Roast some honey glazed carrots for a sweet and colorful side to accompany your hearty soup.

Apple Walnut Salad: Toss together a crisp apple walnut salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the soup.

Delicious Alternatives to Ham and Potato Soup

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a rich and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and a savory alfredo sauce.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Enjoy a healthy and flavorful salad packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a warm and fruity berry cobbler topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Soup

Appetizers:

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these bacon-wrapped dates. The crispy bacon complements the tender dates, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. The savory filling pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a bite-sized treat that is sure to impress.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor will leave you wanting more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a luscious and decadent strawberry cheesecake that is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The smooth and creamy filling paired with a buttery graham cracker crust will have you coming back for seconds.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup Recipe:

This recipe offers a comforting and hearty ham and potato soup that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of russet potatoes, ham, and vegetables creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. With the use of chicken broth and heavy cream, this soup achieves a rich and creamy texture that will surely please your taste buds. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and wholesome meal. Trust in the simplicity and warmth of this recipe to bring joy to your table.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option. It will still provide a creamy texture to the soup.

Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any type of ham you prefer, such as smoked ham, honey ham, or even leftover holiday ham.

Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as corn, peas, or broccoli to suit your taste preferences.