Hot Ham Soup Recipe: A Warm Hug in a Bowl

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind that makes you crave something hearty and comforting. The aroma of sizzling ham and fresh vegetables dances through the air, wrapping around you like a soft, warm blanket. You hear laughter from the next room, where family members gather, eager for a warm bowl of Hot Ham Soup. This recipe isn’t just a simple dinner; it’s a family favorite that can turn any ordinary day into a cozy celebration.

Why Make This Recipe

Why is this Hot Ham Soup Recipe a must-try for your dinner table? Let me share a few heartfelt reasons that will resonate with you:

Quick Prep: With a prep time of only about 15 minutes, you can move from the kitchen to your dining table in no time.
Cozy Flavors: The combination of savory ham, fresh herbs, and vibrant vegetables creates a comforting flavor that warms the soul.
Crowd-Pleaser: This soup is a guaranteed hit for families and gatherings. Watch as everyone requests seconds!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand – it’s a forgiving, easy meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this delicious Hot Ham Soup, gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and building flavor at the start.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds a savory, sweet base to the soup.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic quality.
2 large carrots, sliced: Their natural sweetness balances the smoky flavor of the ham.
2 celery stalks, diced: Gives a nice crunch and depth to the texture.
4 cups chicken broth: Use homemade for richer flavor or store-bought for convenience.
2 cups cooked ham, diced: This is the star of the show; any leftover ham works perfectly.
1 cup potatoes, cubed: Provides heartiness; you can swap for sweet potatoes for a sweeter option.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a beautiful herbal note that enhances the overall flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning your comforting recipe.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A colorful touch that brightens up your bowl.

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

A warm, inviting meal doesn’t always have to take hours; this Hot Ham Soup is a delightful concoction that is ready with minimal fuss.

How to Make Hot Ham Soup Recipe

Ready to create your masterpiece? Let’s dive in step-by-step!

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. As the onions soften, breathe in the sweet aroma filling your kitchen.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This is when the magic begins, and your kitchen starts to feel like home.
Incorporate Veggies: Toss in sliced carrots and diced celery. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, letting everything mingle and soften.
Pour in Broth: Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The bubbling sounds are like a melody, signaling deliciousness is just around the corner.
Stir in Potatoes and Ham: Once boiling, add cubed potatoes and diced ham. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. The colors of your ingredients will begin to shine through.
Simmer: Reduce the heat and let your soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. The flavors will deepen, and you won’t be able to resist sneaking spoonfuls!
Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting sip.

Tips and Creative Variations

Spice it Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
Herbaceous Twist: Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can elevate the flavor for a festive touch.
For a Creamier Version: Consider blending a portion of the soup before serving for a luscious texture. A splash of cream or milk can make it even richer.
Dietary Swaps: If you’re looking for a lighter soup, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, or use turkey instead of ham!

Serving Ideas

What’s a perfect sidekick for your Hot Ham Soup? Picture this: a fresh, crusty loaf of bread on the table, perfect for dunking, and a simple side salad brightened with lemon vinaigrette. A chilled glass of white wine or a warm mug of apple cider would complete the scene beautifully. Gather around the table, share stories, and allow laughter to accompany each spoonful.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers? You’ll be happy to hear that this soup stores wonderfully! Place the cooled soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For long-term storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Pro Tips for Success

Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is perfect for using up holiday ham or extras from a hearty meal.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Taking your time while sautéing the vegetables builds flavor and depth in your soup.
Adjust for Texture: Experiment with adding more or fewer potatoes and ham based on your desired thickness.
Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs can make a simple dish feel gourmet. Don’t skip this step!

FAQs

Can I freeze this recipe? Yes! Hot Ham Soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
What’s the best substitute for ham? If you want a vegetarian version, swap ham for smoked tofu or a mix of hearty mushrooms for that umami flavor.
How can I make it spicier? A little chili powder or fresh jalapeños can kick up the heat factor.

Conclusion

So, there you have it—your new favorite recipe for Hot Ham Soup! This warm, savory delight not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, sharing it with friends, or savoring a quiet moment alone, this soup is more than just a meal; it’s a shared experience, a comforting hug when you need it most. I hope you cozy up with this recipe soon and create beautiful memories to cherish. Don’t forget to share this delightful dish and the love behind it with your loved ones!

Contents

1 Hot Ham Soup

Hot Ham Soup

A cozy, hearty soup featuring savory ham and vibrant vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the soup base

1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing and building flavor at the start.
1 medium onion, diced Adds a savory, sweet base to the soup.
2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic quality.
2 large carrots, sliced Their natural sweetness balances the smoky flavor of the ham.
2 stalks celery, diced Gives a nice crunch and depth to the texture.
4 cups chicken broth Use homemade for richer flavor or store-bought for convenience.
2 cups cooked ham, diced This is the star of the show; any leftover ham works perfectly.
1 cup potatoes, cubed Provides heartiness; you can swap for sweet potatoes for a sweeter option.
1 teaspoon dried thyme Offers a beautiful herbal note that enhances the overall flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Toss in sliced carrots and diced celery. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, letting everything mingle and soften.
Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, add cubed potatoes and diced ham. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat and let your soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot.

Notes

Use leftover ham for this recipe. Don't rush the sauté to build flavor. Adjust for texture by adding more or less potatoes and ham.

Keyword Comfort Food, Cozy Meal, Family Recipe, Ham Soup, Hearty Soup