Hearty Potato Soup with Ham

Warm up with a bowl of hearty potato soup enriched with tender ham. This comforting soup is perfect for utilizing leftover ham, creating a creamy and satisfying dish that’s ideal for cold evenings. The blend of vegetables, cheese, and spices brings out a rich, delightful flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup each of diced onion, celery, and carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 quart water
• 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
• 3 lb white potatoes, peeled and diced
• 8 oz ham, diced
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt, to taste
• 1 can (5 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 pint half and half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup sour cream, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 1/2 cup croutons of choice

Directions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large soup pot, sauté onion, celery, carrots, and garlic in butter until golden.
2. Add Potatoes: Stir in water, bouillon, and potatoes. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
3. Blend Soup: Process about 3 cups of the soup in a food processor until smooth, then return it to the pot.
4. Thicken Soup: Mix cornstarch with 1/2 cup evaporated milk until smooth and stir into the soup to thicken.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add ham, cayenne pepper, salt, the rest of the evaporated milk, and half and half. Stir until heated through and thickened.
6. Finish and Serve: Stir in shredded cheese and sour cream until fully incorporated. Serve topped with croutons, extra cheese, sour cream, and green onions.

Conclusion and Tips:

This potato soup with ham is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for using up leftover ham. For added depth, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of white wine. Share your own tips and variations in the comments below!