On a frosty evening, there’s a simple joy in the air as the aroma of Yukon Gold potato and ham soup wafts through the kitchen. This cozy, homestyle dish perfectly marries the creamy texture of buttery Yukon potatoes and savory ham, offering a warm embrace with every spoonful. Not only is this yummy soup a delightful crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a cinch to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Plus, the flavors only deepen and get better with time, so don’t be surprised if the leftovers become the highlight of your week. Are you ready to stir up some comfort? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting, Cozy Flavors: Each spoonful of Yukon Gold potato and ham soup delivers a hug of warmth, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for busy cooks who crave homemade goodness without hassle.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it! Try adding your favorite veggies or switch up the meats for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends will love gathering around a pot of this hearty soup; it’s bound to become a favorite!
Great for Leftovers: Reheating brings out the flavors even more, making it perfect for meal prep—for a delicious dish anytime!
For more comforting recipes, check out my Potato Egg Cheese or Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight options!

Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• Yukon Gold Potatoes – Provide a naturally buttery flavor and help thicken the soup; Russet potatoes can be used for a creamier texture.
• Diced Ham – Adds a salty punch and savory depth; leftover ham can be used or omit for a vegetarian option.
• Carrots – Contribute sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
• Celery – Adds aromatic flavor and a slight crunch; finely chop for even distribution.
• Onion – Essential for developing the soup’s flavor base; yellow or white onions work best.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic quality; freshly minced is always preferred.

For the Broth and Creaminess

• Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the soup, adding moisture and robust flavor; use low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Milk – Traditionally added for creaminess; warm before incorporating to prevent curdling.
• Butter – Used to make the roux for thickening the soup; essential for achieving a rich, creamy texture.
• Flour – Stabilizes the soup’s consistency through the roux; cook properly to avoid a raw flour taste.

For the Finishing Touches

• Cheddar Cheese – Provides richness and a cheesy flavor; omit for a dairy-free version or use nutritional yeast as a substitute.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Parsley, Thyme) – Enhance the depth of flavor; adjust to taste for best results.

This Yukon Gold potato and ham soup is sure to be a dish that warms your heart and feeds your soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and celery, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The vegetables should start to take on a slight golden color, setting a flavorful base for your Yukon Gold potato and ham soup.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic along with salt, parsley, thyme, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to bloom and infuse its aroma into the mixture. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can negatively impact the flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced ham, followed by the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.

Step 4: Prepare the Roux
While the soup simmers, melt butter in a small bowl and whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually stir in warm milk to create a creamy mixture, ensuring there are no lumps. This roux will help give your Yukon Gold potato and ham soup its dreamy thickness.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup
Microwave the milk and flour mixture for 45-60 seconds, whisking continuously until it thickens into a smooth paste. Once the soup has cooked down and the potatoes are tender, carefully stir in the thickened mixture to achieve a creamy consistency throughout the soup.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Final Touches
If using a ham bone, remove it from the soup at this stage. Stir in any remaining meat, then add in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Allow the Yukon Gold potato and ham soup to heat through on low for a few more minutes before serving, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm, creamy soup into bowls and consider topping it with additional cheddar cheese and finely chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor. Serve your heartwarming Yukon Gold potato and ham soup alongside crusty bread or flaky biscuits for the perfect cozy meal.

Storage Tips for Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Fridge: Store leftover Yukon Gold potato and ham soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze portions of this creamy soup for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Storage Note: Avoid freezing if you’ve added dairy; consider omitting the cheese until reheating for better texture.

What to Serve with Creamy Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

On a chilly evening, nothing pairs quite as beautifully with a warm bowl of soup as these comforting accompaniments.

Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
Flaky Biscuits: Buttery and light, these biscuits soak up every bit of the scrumptious broth, enhancing your dining experience.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the rich, creamy soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and slightly charred, they provide a delightful sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the ham.
Garlic Bread: Crispy and aromatic, it’s the ultimate indulgence to mop up the last drops of the nourishing soup.
Crispy Potato Chips: For a playful twist, the crunchiness of chips brings a delightful texture juxtaposition to the meal.
Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm slice of pie; the sweet, warming cinnamon will leave a cozy feeling right through to dessert.
Herbal Tea or Mulled Cider: These warm drink options enhance the comforting theme, making for a charming finish to your meal.

Expert Tips for Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Perfect Potatoes: Ensure your Yukon Gold potatoes are just fork-tender; overcooking may cause them to disintegrate.
Warm the Milk: Always warm the milk before adding it to the soup to prevent curdling, achieving that creamy consistency you’re after.
Cook the Roux: Take your time with the roux; cook it long enough to remove the raw flour taste but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the ham pieces slightly before adding them to the soup.
Texture Matters: Peel the potatoes for a smoother texture; leaving the skins on can create a slightly grainy feel in your Yukon Gold potato and ham soup.
Season to Taste: Adjust your herbs and spices according to your preference; don’t hesitate to taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.

Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup Variations

Let your creativity shine! There are so many delicious ways to customize this cozy soup to suit your taste.

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk for a creamy, non-dairy version. It adds a subtle sweetness that can nicely complement the ham.
Vegetarian: Omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, boosting your veggies to include mushrooms, corn, or spinach for added depth and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. This zing can elevate the flavors and make your Yukon Gold potato and ham soup even more exciting!
Herb-Infused: Try incorporating fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a different flavor profile. These herbs can add a fresh brightness to each bowl and create a unique taste experience.
Cheesy Variations: Mix in a different cheese, like Gruyère or Pepper Jack, for a bold twist that enhances the creaminess and adds a new layer of flavor. Each cheese can shift the taste in delightful ways.
Texture Boost: Toss in some crispy bacon or add crunchy croutons on top for texture contrast. The crunch can balance the creaminess of the soup perfectly and make every bite satisfying.
Loaded Option: Go for a loaded version by adding toppings like green onions, sour cream, and extra cheese. This creates a hearty, meal-like experience that everyone will devour.
Sweet Addition: Stir in some sweet corn or diced sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish, bringing a delightful balance.

Feel free to check out my Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight for more creamy inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Yukon Gold potato and ham soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the veggies and dice the ham up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The potatoes can be peeled and cut ahead of time, but be sure to place them in water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy this cozy dish, simply sauté the prepped ingredients and follow the cooking instructions as directed. The flavors will meld beautifully, providing you with just as delicious of a soup, ready to warm up your weeknights with minimal effort!

Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Yukon Gold potatoes for this soup?
Absolutely! Look for Yukon Gold potatoes that are firm with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, which may indicate spoilage. Their naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture make them ideal for this soup, creating that cozy depth you crave.

What is the best way to store leftover Yukon Gold potato and ham soup?
You can refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing it to maintain its freshness and flavor. Just remember to stir well when reheating to regain that creamy texture!

Can I freeze Yukon Gold potato and ham soup?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this delightful soup! Pour cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth or milk to restore its creaminess.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Very understandable! If the soup turns out thicker than you like, just add a splash of chicken broth or milk while gently stirring on low heat. This will help loosen the soup without compromising the flavor. You can always adjust the consistency to suit your personal preference!

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian or vegan version of Yukon Gold potato and ham soup, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham. You can also use a dairy-free milk alternative and nutritional yeast to still achieve that delicious creamy flavor without the animal products.

Is this soup safe for my pets?
While the main ingredients of yogurt potato and ham soup are generally safe, garlic and onions can be toxic to pets. It’s best to enjoy this cozy soup yourself and save your furry friends for pet-friendly treats instead!