Turn your leftover honey baked ham into a comforting and hearty soup that’s perfect for any day of the week.
This Honey Baked Ham Soup is loaded with tender ham, savory vegetables, and creamy potatoes, all simmered in a rich and flavorful broth.
It’s a great way to make the most of your leftovers while creating a warm and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
This soup is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste, making it a versatile and delicious dish for any occasion.
Preparation Time
Time required:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
Necessary ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)
- 2 cups honey baked ham, diced (leftovers are perfect!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (russet or Yukon Gold work well)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
- Crusty bread or rolls (optional, for serving)
This soup can be easily adjusted to your preferences. For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. You can also add more vegetables or use different herbs to suit your taste.
Steps of Preparation
The steps of preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)
Making this honey baked ham soup is simple, and it can be customized based on what you have on hand. This hearty soup comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Prepare the vegetables:
Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Mince the garlic and set everything aside for easy access while cooking. - Sauté the vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add the broth and potatoes:
Stir in the chicken broth, diced potatoes, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Add the ham and cream:
Stir in the diced honey baked ham and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Add the spinach (optional):
If using, add the fresh spinach to the pot and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. - Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, with crusty bread or rolls on the side if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
This Honey Baked Ham Soup is not only tasty but also provides several nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: The diced ham provides a good source of protein, which is important for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach add vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
- Calcium and Healthy Fats: The addition of cream provides calcium and healthy fats, which are important for bone health and satiety.
- Low in Carbohydrates: Depending on the type of potatoes used and the amount of cream, this soup can be relatively low in carbohydrates, especially if using cauliflower instead of potatoes.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
To make your Honey Baked Ham Soup even more delicious, consider these tasty additions and variations:
- Add cheese: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy version.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, dill, or basil for different flavor profiles.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Incorporate beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Top with croutons: Garnish with homemade croutons or crushed crackers for added texture.
Questions and Answers
Can I use other types of ham for this recipe?
Yes, any cooked ham will work well in this recipe. If you don’t have honey baked ham, you can use smoked ham, spiral-cut ham, or even deli ham.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all the ingredients, such as broth and ham, are gluten-free. Be sure to check the labels.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, adding the cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes for a slightly different flavor and added nutrients.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth. Add extra beans or tofu for protein.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add a wonderful flavor to the soup. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
How can I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
Now that you have all the details to make this comforting Honey Baked Ham Soup, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy this delicious meal with your family and friends, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations!
