Cozy Slow Cooker Ham Potato Soup Recipe for Winter Warmth

When the chill of winter sets in and the world outside seems frozen, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a bowl of slow cooker ham potato soup. Imagine rich, savory broth swirling around tender potatoes, smoky ham pieces dancing with spices, and a hint of creaminess that makes each spoonful feel like a cozy hug. cozy slow cooker pot roast The aroma wafts through your home, beckoning you to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and perhaps even a few questionable jokes about why potatoes are never lonely (they always have a-peel).

This slow cooker ham potato soup is more than just food; it’s an experience filled with nostalgia. I remember my grandmother whipping up her version of this soup on blustery Sunday afternoons, the kind where snowflakes twirled outside while we huddled inside, eagerly waiting for that first taste. hearty taco soup It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you need to impress friends with minimal effort—trust me, they’ll think you’re some sort of culinary wizard.

One chilly evening, my friends gathered for game night, and this soup stole the show—everyone went back for seconds (and thirds), leaving only crumbs behind.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ham: Use leftover ham or pre-cooked ham cubes for convenience and great flavor.

• Peeled Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture that breaks down beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe.

• Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness; chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

• Celery: Diced celery brings crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while providing a rich base.

• Heavy Cream: For that luxurious finish; stir in at the end for creaminess without curdling.

• Dried Thyme and Bay Leaves: These seasonings enhance flavor; don’t skip them!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Follow these simple steps to create your warm bowl of happiness:

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by dicing your onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Peel and cube your potatoes into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.

Add to Slow Cooker: Place all chopped veggies in your slow cooker along with diced ham. This is where the magic begins!

Pour in Broth & Spices: Add chicken broth so everything is submerged. Toss in dried thyme and bay leaves for aromatic goodness.

Set Your Slow Cooker**: Cover and cook on low heat for about 6-8 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours until potatoes are tender.

Add Creaminess**: Once cooked, remove bay leaves and stir in heavy cream right before serving to give that luscious finish.

Serve Up Warm**: Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with fresh herbs if desired—enjoy those warm hugs from your bowl!

Now sit back and let this delightful dish warm not just your belly but also your heart!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add ham, potatoes, and broth to the slow cooker. Allow everything to simmer for hours, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes or add in some kale for extra nutrition. Experiment with spices like paprika or thyme to enhance the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through for best results.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of winter evenings spent with friends around the table, laughing over bowls of soup that warmed our hearts as much as our bellies.

FAQ

Can I use frozen potatoes in this Slow Cooker Ham Potato Soup?

sweet potato vegetable soup. For more inspiration, check out this Sausage and Vegetable Soup recipe.

Absolutely! Just add them directly; they will cook perfectly during the slow cooking process.

What type of ham is best for this recipe?

Any cooked ham works well; leftover holiday ham is particularly delicious in this soup.

How can I thicken my Slow Cooker Ham Potato Soup?

slow cooker enchilada pasta.

Mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired thickness.