Smoked Cheddar, Ham and Potato Soup
Every time I have leftover ham, I make this cheesy ham and potato soup! This is a simple recipe but it packs big flavor.
Having leftover ham is a bit of a blessing and a curse. I honestly feel like it never runs out! I usually freeze some of it but also find myself getting creative with it. A person can only have so many sandwiches, right? This cheesy ham and potato soup was a very welcome addition to our recipes that use leftover ham!
I usually test a recipe several times before I share it here and solicit the opinions of friends and family along the way. The very first time I tested this cheese, ham and potato soup, my husband said, “You’re welcome to serve this to me all winter!” That’s high praise in my world.
For this recipe, I chose to use smoked cheddar cheese to give the soup a smoky flavor. You can double up on the smoky flavor by using leftover smoked ham, but that’s up to you! I’ll leave addition ingredient substitution ideas for this recipe below.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions for Ham and Potato Soup
When making ham potato soup, I think it’s best to use the ingredients you already have on hand! Here are a few swaps you can make within this recipe:
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you’re welcome to use Colby, gouda, edam or gruyere. All of them melt very well and have good flavor!
- Add a half cup each of diced celery and diced carrots when you add the onions for extra veggies.
- Add a handful of frozen broccoli or peas when you add the shredded cheese.
- I like to use chicken stock or ham stock for this recipe, because stock has so much collagen in it! But you’re welcome to substitute chicken broth or even vegetable broth.
- For extra protein and fiber, add a can of your favorite white beans (drained).
Have additional leftover ham to use? Check out my list of favorite leftover ham recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting cheddar, ham and potato soup recipe with my Harvest Salad, Italian Grinder Salad or Apple Gorgonzola Salad. Some crusty bread or garlic toast is always welcome, too!
I hope you love this cheesy ham & potato soup recipe! If you make it, I’d love to hear how it went in the comments below.
Smoked Cheddar, Ham and Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter, salted
- 2/3 cup onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 2 cups potatoes, cubed
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups milk, or heavy cream, or half and half
- 10 ounces smoked cheddar, shredded or cubed
- 1 teaspoon chives, fresh or dried, chopped
Instructions
- To a large pot, add butter and melt on medium-high heat.
- Add diced onions. Saute for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and fragrant.
- Add garlic, and saute for about 30 seconds. Do not allow the garlic to burn.
- Add flour and seasonings, then stir with a whisk to form a paste. This will help thicken the soup!
- Add chopped ham, potatoes and chicken stock. Allow to come to a gentle boil, then cover the pot. Allow to boil for 15-20 minutes, or until you can pierce the potatoes easily with a fork.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add milk, then cheese. Stir occasionally, allowing the cheese to melt for 5-10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Add chives and stir. Serve warm.
