Outline for Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Blog Post
Introduction
Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of ham and creamy potatoes, all simmered together in a slow cooker for a no-fuss meal. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is ideal for young professionals and homemade-food lovers alike. Imagine coming home to a warm bowl of soup, ready to nourish your body and soul after a long day.
Key Ingredients
Diced Potatoes (6 cups): These hearty staples form the base of your soup, providing a creamy texture as they cook down. Choose a waxy variety for the best results.
Diced Ham (1 cup): Offering a savory depth, the ham infuses the soup with flavor and protein. Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this recipe!
Chopped Onion (1 cup): Onions add sweetness and complexity. They become tender and flavorful as they simmer in the broth.
Minced Garlic (3 cloves): Garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic touch, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
Chicken Broth (4 cups): The broth ties all the ingredients together, providing a savory liquid that soaks into the potatoes and ham.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): Added towards the end of cooking, the cream gives the soup a rich and velvety finish.
Thyme (1 teaspoon): This herb brings a hint of earthiness that complements the ham beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these two pantry staples help balance the flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do the work while you focus on your day. The combination of flavors makes for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a versatile dish; you can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Variations
Feel free to mix things up! You can add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition, or substitute the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version. For added flavor, consider tossing in some cheese or a splash of hot sauce.
Cooking Tips and Notes
For best results, chop your ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure a perfectly balanced dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or croutons for added texture and flavor. It’s great for meal prep; simply store leftovers in an airtight container for an easy lunch the next day.
Time Breakdown
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 6 to 8 hours
- Total: 6 hours 15 minutes
Efficiency Tip: Chop your vegetables the night before to save time in the morning.
Nutritional Facts
This recipe yields about 6 servings, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nourishing option that satisfies without weighing you down.
FAQ
Can I use frozen potatoes in this recipe?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes can be used, but they may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer preservation.
Conclusion
This Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup is a warming bowl of goodness that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations with us!
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Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: gluten-free
Description
A delicious and hearty ham and potato soup made easily in the crockpot.
Ingredients
- 6 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine potatoes, ham, onion, garlic, and thyme in the crockpot.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- This soup freezes well; store in an airtight container.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: soup
- Method: slow cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg