Best Easy Paula Deen Ham and Potato Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious soup recipe to warm your soul, look no further than Paula Deen’s Ham and Potato Soup. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also combines the rich flavors of ham and potatoes to create a hearty dish that will leave you wanting more. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
To make this incredible soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Start by melting the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they are softened and fragrant. Next, add the flour and stir well to create a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.
Add the diced ham and potatoes to the pot and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about this recipe:
1. Can I use leftover ham for this soup?
Absolutely! Leftover ham works perfectly in this recipe and adds a delicious flavor.
2. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?
If you want to lighten the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to the soup for added flavor and texture.
6. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute if you prefer a vegetarian version of this soup.
7. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just follow the same steps, but cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
8. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Can I use an immersion blender to make this soup creamy?
Yes, if you prefer a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup before adding the milk and cream.
10. Can I add cheese to this soup?
Certainly! Adding shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to this soup will enhance the flavor even more.
11. Can I add herbs and spices to customize the flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or spices like paprika to enhance the taste according to your preferences.
In conclusion, Paula Deen’s Ham and Potato Soup is an easy and delicious recipe that combines the classic flavors of ham and potatoes. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup will be a hit at your next family dinner or gathering. So, grab a bowl and indulge in the warmth and heartiness of this incredible dish.