Scalloped Potatoes and Ham Soup
Delicious and comforting, this hearty soup is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups sliced potatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine potatoes, onion, ham, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and flour until smooth. Stir into the soup mixture and simmer until thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Popular Questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Can I use bacon instead of ham?
- Can I make this soup ahead of time?
- Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
- Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
- Is this soup gluten-free?
- How can I make this soup vegetarian?
- Can I freeze this soup?
- Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?
- Can I use pre-cooked ham in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite type of cheese for a different flavor profile.
Yes, bacon can be used as a delicious alternative to ham in this soup.
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
It’s up to personal preference, but peeling the potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture in the soup.
Yes, you can use milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream in this recipe.
Unfortunately, this soup is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour used as a thickening agent.
You can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Feel free to add carrots, celery, or other vegetables to this soup for added flavor and nutrition.
Yes, pre-cooked ham can be used in this recipe for convenience.
Helpful Tips:
- For a kick of flavor, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the soup.
- Top the soup with crispy bacon bits for added texture.
- Try using sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor in the soup.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique taste.
- Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist on this classic soup.
- Serve the soup with crusty bread or rolls for a complete meal.
- Layer the ingredients in a slow cooker for an easy, hands-off cooking method.
- Use leftover ham from a holiday meal for a budget-friendly option.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick and easy meal on busy days.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less flour to suit your preference.
Expert Secrets:
- Cut the potatoes into uniform slices for even cooking.
- Simmer the soup low and slow to develop the flavors fully.
- Stir the soup frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust the seasonings to taste before serving for the best flavor balance.
- Use quality ingredients, especially the cheese, for the best results.
- Don’t skip the garnish of parsley, as it adds a pop of color and freshness to the soup.
- Be mindful of the salt content in the broth and ham when seasoning the soup.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
- Experiment with different types of ham for a variety of flavors in the soup.