Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Set Up the Slow Cooker
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Dice the russet potatoes, chop the carrots and celery, and dice the onion. Place all the vegetables, the cubed ham, Kosher salt, pepper, and chicken broth into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine everything. The potatoes and vegetables should be well-covered by the broth to ensure they cook evenly. Once everything is added, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to develop fully, with the potatoes and vegetables becoming tender while the ham infuses its savory flavor into the broth.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Once the cooking time is up and the vegetables are tender, use a potato masher to mash about one-third of the potatoes in the slow cooker. You don’t have to mash them perfectly; mash enough to thicken the soup and create a creamy consistency. The mashed potatoes will naturally dissolve into the soup, making the broth rich and velvety. Don’t worry if the ham pieces remain intact—this adds texture and bite to the soup, giving you a satisfying mouthful of savory ham in each spoonful.
Step 3: Add the Creaminess
Now, it’s time to add the ingredients that will take your soup to the next level. Add the flour, heavy cream (or milk if you prefer a lighter version), and sour cream to the slow cooker. The flour will act as a thickening agent, while the heavy cream and sour cream create the creamy base that makes this soup so indulgent. Stir everything together until the flour is fully incorporated, ensuring there are no lumps in the soup. The sour cream adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the heavy cream, balancing out the flavors.
Step 4: Final Cooking Time
Once you’ve stirred in the creamy ingredients, cover the slow cooker again and cook the soup on high for an additional 15 minutes. This final step allows the soup to thicken and lets all the ingredients meld together, resulting in a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The soup should have a rich, creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
After the final cooking time is up, give the soup one last stir and check for seasoning. If needed, you can add a pinch of salt or pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor. This recipe yields about eight servings, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers for the next day.
Why This Soup Works:
- Slow Cooker Magic: The beauty of this soup lies in the slow cooker’s ability to allow the flavors to blend effortlessly. The vegetables become soft and tender, the ham infuses its rich, smoky flavor into the broth, and the creamy ingredients create a smooth, velvety texture.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: The combination of basic ingredients—potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, ham, and a creamy broth—comes together to create a comforting, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Flexible and Customizable: You can adjust this recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs. If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk or half-and-half. You can also swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt or omit it altogether. The soup can also be made vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth.
Tips for Success:
- Potato Variations: While russet potatoes are ideal for this soup because they become tender and break down nicely, you can experiment with other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, if you prefer a slightly firmer texture.
- Make-Ahead Meal: This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a make-ahead dinner. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make a double batch, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion:
This Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for cold weather, family gatherings, or any day when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The slow cooker does all the hard work, creating a flavorful, creamy soup with minimal effort. With its combination of tender vegetables, savory ham, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the warmth, richness, and comfort of this classic dish—your taste buds will thank you!