If you’re looking for a comforting meal that practically makes itself, look no further than slow cooker potato soup with ham. Loaded with tender potatoes, smoky ham, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover holiday ham.
Recipe for Slow Cooker Potato Soup with Ham
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 ½ cups TBS ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: green onions, bacon bits, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the potatoes and ham, and chop the onion and garlic.
2. Add to Slow Cooker
Add the potatoes, ham, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy
About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly stir in the heavy cream (or milk) until smooth and thickened.
5. Add the Cheese
Stir the roux mixture into the slow cooker, along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Blend (Optional)
For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup directly in the slow cooker.
7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve with warm, crusty bread or buttery crackers for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Cheese Matters: Opt for sharp cheddar for a robust flavor. Grating it yourself will give you the best melting consistency.
- Vegetable Boost: Add additional vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
Warm Up with The Butcher Shop
Slow cooker potato soup with ham is a warm and comforting meal perfect for a weeknight or cozy weekend – and a great way to use leftover holiday ham. At The Butcher Shop, all our meat is locally sourced from farms right here in Southern Oregon. You’ll also find local produce, fresh-baked loaves of bread, and everything else you need for your post-holiday meal. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.