Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty soup combines tender potatoes, sweet carrots, savory ham, and creamy broth into a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. Easy to make in the slow cooker, it’s the perfect meal to come home to after a long day. Plus, the addition of sour cream and heavy cream makes this soup delightfully creamy and smooth.
Ingredients
- 8 cups russet potatoes, diced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 16 ounces cubed ham (2 packages of Smithfield Anytime Favorites Cubed Ham)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Directions
1. Prepare the Soup:
- Add the diced potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, cubed ham, kosher salt, pepper, and chicken broth into your slow cooker.
- Stir to combine, and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.
2. Mash the Potatoes:
- After the cooking time is up, use a potato masher to mash about 1/3 of the potatoes. Don’t worry, the ham will stay mostly intact and won’t mash too much.
3. Add the Cream:
- Add the flour, heavy cream (or milk), and sour cream into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure the flour is well distributed.
4. Final Cooking:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes to allow everything to thicken and meld together.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7-8 hours on low, or 4-5 hours on high
- Total Time: 7-8 hours (including slow cooker time)
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian-friendly soup.
- Cheese Lover’s Version: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese towards the end of cooking for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat in the soup.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the heavy cream and sour cream, and skip the butter.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
10 FAQs About Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
- Can I use a different type of potato? While russet potatoes are ideal for mashing, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes or red potatoes. Just note that they may hold their shape better and won’t mash as easily.
- Can I use frozen ham? Yes, you can use frozen cubed ham. Just make sure it’s thawed before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Can I substitute the sour cream with something else? You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or even heavy cream if you prefer a richer, creamier texture.
- Can I make this soup in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop. Bring the ingredients to a boil, then simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour until the potatoes are tender.
- How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin? If the soup is too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of flour with some cold water and add it to the soup. Let it cook for an additional 15 minutes to thicken.
- Can I use a different type of broth? You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or ham broth for a different flavor profile.
- Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? Yes, whole milk can be substituted for heavy cream, though it may not make the soup as rich and creamy.
- What can I serve with this soup? This soup is delicious with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Can I add other vegetables? You can easily add other vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich and creamy soup packed with hearty vegetables and savory ham. With minimal prep work and the convenience of a slow cooker, it’s an easy yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on any busy day. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or as part of a larger spread, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.