Creamy Ham and Potato Soup

This Creamy Ham and Potato Soup is the perfect way to enjoy leftovers while creating a comforting, hearty meal. Loaded with tender potatoes, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables in a rich, creamy broth, this soup is a true cozy classic. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and even better with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some oyster crackers for that satisfying crunch.

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/4 teaspoon cracked red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 meaty leftover ham bone (or a ham hock for extra flavor)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 cups diced leftover ham (about 3/4-inch cubes) – or meat from the ham hock
• 1 cup half-and-half
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
• Oyster crackers or crusty bread, for serving

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and carrot, stirring frequently, until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Season the Soup Base: Stir in Italian herbs, cracked red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Build the Broth: Add the ham bone (or ham hock), chicken broth, and potatoes to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
5. Prepare the Ham: Remove the ham bone and discard. (If using a ham hock, cut away the meat and chop into cubes.)
6. Finish with Cream: Stir in the half-and-half and diced ham, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to warm everything through.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with a side of oyster crackers or crusty bread.

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Tips for the Perfect Ham and Potato Soup

• For Extra Creaminess: Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half, or blend a portion of the soup before adding the ham for a thicker consistency.
• Vegetable Variations: Add celery, leeks, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt levels, especially with the saltiness of the ham.

This delicious, warming soup is an excellent way to make the most of holiday leftovers or enjoy a weeknight dinner that everyone will love!