Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners. This hearty soup features tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy broth, all simmered together in the slow cooker for an easy, hands-off meal. With simple ingredients and rich, satisfying flavors, this dish will warm you up on the coldest days.

Ingredients

8 cups russet potatoes, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup chopped celery
16 ounces cubed ham (2 packages of Smithfield Anytime Favorites Cubed Ham)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/4 cup flour
4 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk as an alternative)
1/4 cup sour cream

Directions

Add the diced potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, cubed ham, kosher salt, pepper, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
Once cooked, use a potato masher to mash about 1/3 of the potatoes. Don’t worry about the ham, as it won’t mash much.
Add the flour, heavy cream (or milk), and sour cream to the slow cooker. Stir to combine everything well.
Cover and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness of this hearty soup!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
Total Time: 7-8 hours (if cooking on low) or 4-5 hours (if cooking on high)

Variations

Vegetable Substitutes: You can swap the carrots and celery with other vegetables like peas or corn for a different flavor and texture.
Cheese: Stir in shredded cheese (such as cheddar) for an extra creamy, cheesy version of this soup.
Smoked Ham: Use smoked ham for a deeper, more robust flavor profile.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth or milk if needed to adjust the consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, though russet potatoes create a creamier texture when mashed.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen carrots and peas can be used as substitutes for fresh veggies. Just add them halfway through the cooking process.
What can I substitute for sour cream? Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as an alternative to sour cream for a similar creamy texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
Is it possible to make this soup in the Instant Pot? Yes, you can cook it in the Instant Pot on the “Soup” setting for about 20-30 minutes, and then follow the same steps for thickening.
Can I make this soup dairy-free? Yes, substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives such as coconut milk and dairy-free sour cream.
Can I add more ham? Absolutely! Feel free to add extra ham for a heartier version of this soup.
Can I freeze the soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this soup? Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or crackers for a complete meal.
Can I use low-sodium broth? Yes, low-sodium chicken broth is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is the perfect dish for busy days when you crave comfort food with minimal effort. With tender vegetables, savory ham, and a creamy broth, it’s an easy and satisfying meal for the whole family. The best part is that the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a delicious, hearty soup to enjoy any time of year.