Get ready to cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of creamy ham soup! There’s nothing like a rich and savory broth filled with tender chunks of ham, vegetables, and aromatic spices to lift your spirits on a chilly day. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering 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 adventurous pairings like ham and mushroom or ham and lentil, there’s something for everyone in this roundup of delicious soups. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy weeknight dinner solution or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next soup-making adventure, you’ll find plenty of ideas to get you started.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 creamy ham soup recipes, exploring the various ingredients and cooking methods that make them so special. So grab a spoon, settle in, and let’s start simmering up some seriously satisfying soups!
Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this creamy ham and potato soup, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the diced ham, potatoes, butter, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Ham and Corn Chowder
This comforting chowder is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender ham, sweet corn, and a hint of creaminess. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the diced ham and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until corn is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Split Pea Soup with Ham
This classic soup is a comforting blend of split peas, smoky ham, and aromatic spices that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, it’s an ideal option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced cooked ham (such as leftover or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, 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 split peas, chicken broth, diced ham, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option. This recipe combines the richness of cheese, savory ham, and tender broccoli in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup diced cooked ham (such as spiral-cut ham)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
3. Stir in diced ham, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Vegetables
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of savory ham, creamy beans, and tender vegetables. With its rich flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the diced ham, carrots, celery, and garlic in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and red kidney beans. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Ham and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham and tender lentils, simmered together to create a rich and comforting meal. With the aroma of smoked paprika filling your kitchen, you’ll be ready for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham hocks, onion, garlic, lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Remove ham hocks and shred meat from bones; return to pot.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Wild Rice Soup
Savor the hearty flavors of this comforting soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 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 or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, wild rice blend, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serve: With crusty bread or crackers, this soup makes a satisfying meal.
Creamy Ham and Mushroom Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of ham and mushrooms in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in ham, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Cabbage Soup
This classic soup is a staple of many cuisines around the world. With its rich flavor profile and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked ham)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped ham and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then add paprika to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Ham Soup
This hearty soup combines the comfort of a baked potato with the savory flavors of ham and vegetables, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large baking potato
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the potato several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add ham, chicken broth, milk, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10-15 minutes.
5. Scoop out potato flesh and add to the soup pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including baking time)
Ham and Cheese Tortellini Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of ham, cheese, and tortellini. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken broth
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add chicken broth, diced ham, grated cheese, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in heavy cream.
5. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Add to the soup and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory ham, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. With its rich flavor profile, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the ham, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the chicken broth, water, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Ham and Black-Eyed Pea Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the savory taste of ham with the creamy texture of black-eyed peas, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a chilly day or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hock
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham hock, onion, garlic, black-eyed peas, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until peas are tender.
3. Remove ham hock and chop into small pieces; add back to the pot.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Barley Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of ham and barley soup, perfect for a chilly day. This classic recipe combines the savory flavors of ham, vegetables, and whole grain barley.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the diced ham, chicken broth, pearl barley, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Spinach Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory ham, tender spinach, and rich cream. Serve it with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken broth, ham, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until spinach is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Sweet Potato Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory ham and sweet potatoes, finished with a touch of cream and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked ham, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, chicken broth, ham, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Pumpkin Soup
This creamy soup combines the savory flavors of ham with the sweetness of pumpkin, making it a perfect fall treat. Serve warm with a swirl of crème fraîche and some crusty bread for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 medium pumpkins (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the cubed pumpkin, chicken broth, diced ham, dried sage, and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkins are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with crème fraîche and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Tomato Bisque
This rich and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The combination of caramelized ham, fresh tomatoes, and creamy broth will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced ham, chopped tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Leek Soup
A classic combination of flavors, this soup is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With the sweetness of leeks and the savory taste of ham, you’ll be in for a treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced cooked ham (about 6 ounces)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped leeks and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until they are tender and lightly browned.
3. Add garlic, chicken broth, and diced ham to the pot. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer soup to a blender and blend in batches, returning it to the pot.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ham and Carrot Ginger Soup
This comforting soup combines the sweetness of carrots with the savory flavor of ham, all wrapped up in a spicy ginger broth. Perfect for a chilly day or as a soothing pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add ham, carrots, ginger, and cumin. Simmer for another 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these deliciously creamy ham soup recipes! From classic comfort foods like Ham and Potato Soup to more adventurous options like Smoky Ham and Lentil Soup, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta adding flavor and texture, you’ll never get bored with these 20 tasty soups. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and brothy or rich and creamy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
