Description
Pioneer Woman Ham and Potato Soup is a classic creamy soup made with tender potatoes, diced ham, onions, and a rich broth. The soup is thickened with a bit of flour and cream to create a velvety texture, making it a comforting and filling meal. It’s often garnished with cheese, green onions, or bacon for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Shredded cheese, green onions, or crumbled bacon for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Melt the butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Ham
- Add the potatoes and ham: Stir in the diced potatoes and cooked ham, mixing everything together.
- Pour in the broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are covered by the liquid.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Season and simmer: Add salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) to the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
- Make a slurry: In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a bit of milk to create a slurry.
- Add the slurry: Gradually stir the slurry into the soup to help thicken the broth.
- Stir in cream and milk: Slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Cook for another 5-10 minutes over low heat, allowing the soup to thicken slightly. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve the Ham and Potato Soup
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, shredded cheese, green onions, or crumbled bacon if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.