Old-Fashioned Creamy Ham & Potato Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the aromatics:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8–10 minutes.
2. Add the broth and potatoes:
   Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Incorporate the ham and seasonings:
   Stir in the diced ham, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Create the creamy texture:
   Remove the pot from the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream.
5. Serve and garnish:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Pro Tip

For deeper, richer flavor, use a leftover ham bone to make your broth or add it to the soup while simmering, then remove before serving.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 37 minutes
• Total Time: 57 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (varies by ham and cream used)