Creamy Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

I love the holidays, but sometimes there's too much leftover food. What I like to do is to repurpose the food and create new recipes from the leftovers. This recipe for Creamy Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup is just that. This creamy potato soup has ham and cheddar to make the perfect meal.

Jump to:

• How to use leftover ham
• What to do if you don't have leftovers
• How to make a Roux
• Favorite soup recipes
• Ingredients Needed
• Equipment Needed
• Storage
• Ham and Potato Soup
• About Michelle

How to use leftover ham

Ham and Potato Soup can use up a good amount of your leftover ham. Ham on the bone will be easiest to use. Removed meat from the bone, then cube into small ½ inch cubes. If using spiral cut ham, cut ham off the bone, then slice into strips. Either variety can be used in this recipe, however for either cut omit and dried or hardened portions of the hame from this recipe.

I love repurposing leftovers. Some of my other favorites include Ham Mac and Cheese, Creamy Ham Tetrazzini, Cheesy Ham and Peas Tortellini, and Ham and Peas Penne Pasta.

What to do if you don't have leftovers

If you are making this at a time of year where you don't have leftovers on hand, substitute the leftover ham with a ham steak. Ham steaks can be found at most grocery stores and are fairly inexpensive. Heat ham steak on both sides until warmed though in a large pan. Let cool slightly, then cut into cubes.

How to make a Roux

A roux is the base for a thick velvety soup. A roux is an equal parts mixture of flour and butter that is cooked together until the desired doneness. A roux will impart flavor as well as acting as a thickening agent.

To make a roux, add equal parts butter and flour to a large skillet. Stirring frequently cook until the butter has melted and the roux has begun to brown. A roux will be ready when it is browned and has a slightly nutty aroma. This recipe uses a blond roux (just slightly browned) but other recipes such as jambalayas will call for a darker roux which will impart more flavor on the dish.

Favorite soup recipes

• Turkey and Rice Soup
• Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
• Chicken Pot Pie Soup
• Beef and Barley Soup
• New England Corn Chowder
• Roasted Garlic Soup
• Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
• Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup
• Creamy Potato Soup
• Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Ingredients Needed

Equipment Needed

• Dutch Oven or similar style pot
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Storage

Fridge: Place soup into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. If using leftover ham, shorten the storage period to up to 2 days. Ham and Potato soup can be reheated either by microwave or in a saucepan on the stovetop.

Freezer: Place soup in a freezer proof airtight container. Store in freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, either defrost in microwave or by placing in the fridge overnight. Soup can also be reheated in a saucepan on the stovetop on a low setting so that it does not scorch.

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