Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a soup that delivers pure comfort in every spoonful, look no further than Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup. This cozy classic brims with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, savory ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables simmered to perfection. It’s one of those recipes you make when you want your kitchen to feel as warm as a welcoming hug. Each ingredient shines in this simple, satisfying dish, giving you a thick, creamy soup that truly tastes like home. The next time chilly weather calls for something soul-warming, this soup should be at the top of your list.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling this Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup together is delightfully easy, and every ingredient has a starring role. From the golden potatoes to the fragrant aromatics, here’s how each one helps to create that perfect harmony of flavor and texture.

• Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and buttery flavor set the foundation for a velvety, rich soup you’ll crave all season long.
• Cooked ham: Savory, meaty, and a touch smoky, ham gives this soup its heartiness and a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Onion: Sweet and aromatic, onion acts as the backbone for the soup’s flavor base.
• Carrots: Add a pop of color and subtle sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory notes from the ham.
• Celery: Brings a gentle earthy flavor and melds beautifully with the other vegetables.
• Garlic: Just a couple of cloves heighten everything with irresistible fragrance.
• Chicken broth: Forms the savory, flavorful liquid that binds all the ingredients together.
• Whole milk or half-and-half: For luxurious creaminess, this addition makes the soup wonderfully comforting.
• Butter: Sauteing veggies in butter deepens flavor and adds extra richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into beautiful balance.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds brightness and a fresh green finish to each bowl.

How to Make Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before anything hits the pot, go ahead and chop your Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized cubes, dice your cooked ham, and slice up the carrots, celery, and onion. Having everything prepped and ready will make the soup-making process smooth and relaxing from start to finish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Melt butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, just until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Simmer the Potatoes and Ham

Stir in your Yukon Gold potatoes and diced ham, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let everything cook uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors have started to mingle.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, pour in the whole milk or half-and-half and mix well. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly. Adjust the consistency to your liking—if you want it thicker, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste your Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup, then season with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish each serving with fresh parsley, if you’re using it. Prepare to enjoy some serious comfort with every bite.

How to Serve Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way in making this soup feel extra special. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of bright green color and a fresh flavor contrast. For even more decadence on a chilly day, a small dollop of sour cream or a pinch of shredded cheddar can take your bowl to the next level. Cracked black pepper or a swirl of hot sauce can also add a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but serving it with a chunk of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll is always a winning move. If you want to round out the meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy soup and toasty bread are a match made in comfort-food heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup into a showstopper by serving it in edible bread bowls or mini soup crocks for a bistro feel. For special occasions, add a sprinkle of crisp bacon bits on top or serve with homemade herb croutons. If you have small, oven-safe ramekins, try broiling a handful of cheese right on top for a delightfully gooey finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (it happens, but not often!), pour any extra soup into an airtight container and refrigerate. The Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. You’ll find the flavors deepen as it sits, making the second bowl even more delicious than the first.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, although the texture may turn slightly grainy due to the dairy. Simply let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often until hot. If it’s a bit thick, splash in an extra dash of broth or milk to bring back that just-made creaminess. Microwave reheating also works well—cover and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their buttery flavor and smooth texture, but you can substitute with red potatoes or even russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind, russets may break down more and create an even thicker soup.

What if I don’t have leftover ham?

No ham? No problem! You can use smoked turkey, crumbled bacon, or even cooked sausage, which will give a different but equally hearty result. It’s a great way to clear out your fridge and make the soup your own.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ham for a can of drained white beans or extra veggies, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The result is a still-creamy, belly-warming soup that everyone can enjoy.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes! Just use your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk (like oat or almond) instead of milk or half-and-half, and sauté the vegetables in olive oil instead of butter. The soup won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be deliciously comforting.

How can I thicken the soup without dairy?

If you want a thicker texture but need to avoid dairy, simply mash a portion of the potatoes against the side of the pot or blend a scoop of the soup and stir it back in. Potato starch naturally thickens the broth and creates a creamy effect, no cream required.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring more warmth, flavor, and nostalgia into your kitchen, Hearty Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup is a must-try. It’s the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, deeply satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Gather your ingredients, simmer up a big pot, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of genuine homemade goodness!

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