When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to comfort you. One such delightful soup is Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup. This creamy and hearty dish is packed with flavors and made effortlessly in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s simple to make, requiring just a bit of chopping and mixing. The slow cooker takes care of the rest! Second, it’s budget-friendly, using leftover ham and basic vegetables. Lastly, this soup is incredibly filling and delicious, making it a family favorite that everyone can enjoy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
Making Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is easy and straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 8 cups russet potatoes, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 16 ounces of cubed ham
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or substitute with whole milk)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions:
- In a slow cooker, combine the chopped celery, diced potatoes, diced onion, cubed ham, chopped carrots, and chicken broth.
- Season with Kosher salt and black pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the soup to thicken.
- Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and sour cream before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
Serve the soup hot, garnished with some extra sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
- Use leftover holiday ham or any cooked ham for great flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or peas for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less flour, according to your preference.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or use a dairy-free option like almond milk. You can also add spices like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of russet?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
The traditional recipe contains flour, which is not gluten-free. You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute or cornstarch as a thickener instead.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup!
