As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm and comforting bowl of soup. And when that soup is filled with the rich flavor of ham, you’ve got a match made in heaven! In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 creamy ham soup recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
From classic combinations like ham and potato or ham and bean, to more unique pairings like ham and pumpkin or ham and cauliflower cheese, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with the slow cooker option available for many of these recipes, you can come home to a hot and ready meal after a long day. So grab your spoon and let’s dive in!
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the rich flavor of ham with the creamy goodness of potatoes, all slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the ham steak, potatoes, and garlic on top of the onion.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and milk.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Ham and Corn Chowder
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory flavor, making it a great comfort food option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This classic recipe combines the sweetness of split peas with the smokiness of ham for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 slices of cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced ham, garlic, split peas, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Vegetables
This classic soup is a comforting blend of smoky ham, creamy beans, and tender vegetables, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks or diced cooked ham
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham hocks or cooked ham, soaked beans, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy soup that’s packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli and ham; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
5. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Smoky Ham and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavor of smoky ham with the wholesome goodness of lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced smoky ham (such as prosciutto or pancetta)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the smoky ham, lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Wild Rice Soup
A comforting blend of savory ham, nutty wild rice, and tender vegetables, this soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onions)
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the mixed vegetables in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the cooked ham, wild rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Ham Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Ham Soup, featuring tender chunks of ham, creamy baked potatoes, and a rich vegetable broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Pierce potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-60 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add vegetable broth, diced ham, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Scoop out potato flesh and add it to the soup pot. Stir to combine.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of each bowlful before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (including baking time)
Ham and Cabbage Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Ham and Cabbage Soup is a classic combination of smoky ham and sweet cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks or diced cooked ham
– 2 medium-sized cabbage heads, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, smoked ham, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ham and Mushroom Soup with Thyme
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of ham and mushrooms with the subtle warmth of thyme, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stir in the diced ham, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and add the thyme sprigs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Ham and Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of spicy ham with the comforting warmth of black beans, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham steak (such as prosciutto or cooked bacon)
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the ham, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes or until the flavors meld.
3. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Tomato Bisque
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham and sweet tomatoes, sure to warm your senses on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
3. Add the canned tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Soup
This comforting soup combines the savory flavors of ham with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, diced
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until browned.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and White Bean Soup with Rosemary
This hearty soup combines the savory flavors of ham, white beans, and rosemary for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced ham, cannellini beans, chicken broth, and chopped rosemary to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Barley Soup with Carrots
This comforting soup combines the savory flavors of ham, carrots, and barley for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, chopped carrots, and pearl barley. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Spinach Soup with Parmesan
This hearty soup combines the savory flavors of ham, spinach, and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced ham, chicken broth, and spinach leaves. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Pumpkin Soup with Sage
Warm up on a chilly fall day with this comforting soup featuring the savory flavors of ham, pumpkin, and sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can pumpkin puree
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and diced ham. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Stir in dried sage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Leek Soup with Cream
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of ham and leeks, finished with a swirl of creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2-3 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and leeks in butter until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken broth, diced ham, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Cauliflower Cheese Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy soup featuring smoky ham and tender cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked bacon)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to tenderize.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, diced ham, and grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of paprika.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Pea Soup with Mint
This classic soup recipe combines the savory flavors of ham and peas with a refreshing hint of mint, perfect for a comforting and light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked ham)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, peas, and mint leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these deliciously savory creamy ham soup recipes! From classic combinations like Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup, to unique twists like Smoky Ham and Lentil Soup, there’s something for everyone. With 20 mouthwatering options to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite recipe to cozy up with. Whether you prefer hearty, comforting bowls or light and refreshing soups, these creamy ham soup recipes are the perfect way to satisfy your cravings.
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