Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham

Have you ever wondered how a simple bowl of soup can turn a chilly day into something warm, comforting, and unforgettable? Many people think delicious soups take hours of constant stirring and effort, but what if you could create a creamy, cheesy, and hearty potato soup with ham—all in your slow cooker, with very little work? That’s the beauty of this recipe, and today, you’ll learn exactly how to make it.

This Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham is perfect for busy families, weeknight dinners, or anyone who wants a satisfying, cozy meal without standing over the stove. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with hearty potatoes, melted cheese, and savory ham. Let’s dive in!

Why This Soup Is Special

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What makes this soup stand out is the perfect blend of flavors and the convenience of using a slow cooker. Once you add your ingredients, the slow cooker does the hard work for you. In a few hours, you’ll have a cheesy, creamy, and savory dish ready to enjoy.

• Difficulty: Very easy, beginner-friendly
• Preparation time: About 15 minutes of chopping and prepping
• Cooking time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
• Servings: About 6–8 hearty bowls

It’s a great recipe for cold nights, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week.

Essential Ingredients

Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need to make Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham:

• Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are best for creaminess.
• Ham – Diced cooked ham, great for using up leftovers.
• Onion and garlic – Add depth of flavor.
• Chicken broth – The base for the soup.
• Shredded cheese – Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix in Colby or Monterey Jack.
• Milk or cream – For creaminess.
• Butter – Helps with richness.
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and optional paprika or thyme.

Substitutions and Variations

• No ham? Try cooked bacon, turkey, or smoked sausage.
• Want it vegetarian? Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Need it lighter? Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese.
• Like spice? Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Peel and dice about 6 medium potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
• Chop 1 onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic.
• Dice 2 cups of cooked ham.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

• Place the potatoes, ham, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
• Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth until everything is covered.
• Add 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook Slowly

• Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
• The potatoes should be tender and easy to mash with a fork.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

• Mash some of the potatoes inside the slow cooker to thicken the soup naturally.
• Stir in 1 cup of milk or heavy cream.
• Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

• Add more seasoning if needed.
• If the soup is too thick, add extra broth or milk.

Assembly and Presentation

When serving this soup, presentation can make it even more inviting. Try these tips:

• Ladle the soup into deep bowls for a cozy look.
• Top with extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon.
• Serve with warm crusty bread, dinner rolls, or even cornbread for dipping.

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme also makes the bowl look restaurant-worthy.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prepping and leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding the cheese and milk, then stir them in after reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to avoid separating.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some creative twists:

• Loaded Potato Soup: Add crumbled bacon, sour cream, and extra cheese on top.
• Vegetable Potato Soup: Add carrots, celery, or corn for more nutrition.
• Southwestern Style: Stir in black beans, corn, and a little chili powder for a Tex-Mex flavor.
• Creamy Broccoli and Potato Soup: Add steamed broccoli before serving for a cheesy broccoli twist.

Health Benefits

Even though this soup feels indulgent, it comes with some nutritional perks:

• Potatoes provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin C.
• Ham adds protein to keep you full.
• Cheese and milk give calcium for strong bones.
  You can also make it lighter with low-fat dairy and more vegetables.

Conclusion

This Easy Slow Cooker Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham is the kind of recipe that makes life simpler and meals more enjoyable. With very little effort, you can feed your family a warm, hearty dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Don’t be afraid to get creative with variations and toppings—you might even discover your own family favorite.

The next time you need something cozy, filling, and easy, let your slow cooker do the work. Try this recipe, enjoy the comfort, and share it with loved ones.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, frozen diced hash browns work well and save time.

Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free broth and check your ham for gluten-containing additives. The rest is naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Just simmer the ingredients in a large pot for 30–40 minutes, then add cheese and milk.

Q: How can I thicken the soup more?
Mash more potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water).

Q: What sides go best with this soup?
Crusty bread, biscuits, or a fresh salad are all perfect pairings.