Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup – Hearty, Creamy & Comforting Family Favorite

There’s something soul-soothing about a bowl of hot, creamy soup—especially when it’s loaded with buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, tender ham, and rich aromatics. This Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup is one of those recipes I find myself making on repeat, especially when the weather gets chilly or I’m craving something hearty, but still easy.

I learned this recipe from my mom, who always made a giant pot after Christmas using leftover ham. The smell alone was enough to pull everyone into the kitchen with a spoon in hand! Now, I make it year-round with just as much love—and yes, just as many second helpings.

Why You’ll Love This Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

• Family-friendly: Kids love it, and grown-ups always ask for seconds.
• One pot wonder: Fewer dishes, less mess.
• Make ahead magic: It reheats beautifully.
• Flexible ingredients: Use leftover ham, rotisserie chicken, or even bacon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything I use to make this soup rich, flavorful, and fuss-free:

• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil works)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2–3 cloves)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock
• 900g (about 2 lbs) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced or pulled apart
• 1 ham bone (optional but adds amazing flavor!)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (any kind you have works)
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

For garnish (optional): Shredded cheese and sliced green onions

Step-by-Step: How to Make Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

1. Sauté the Veggies

Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.

Add chopped carrots, onion, and celery. Sauté until onions soften—about 4 to 5 minutes.

🥕 Tip: Don’t rush this step. The flavor base starts here!

2. Add Seasonings and Aromatics

Stir in salt, garlic, parsley, thyme, and black pepper.

Cook and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. It should smell like heaven in your kitchen right now.

3. Simmer the Soup

Add chicken broth, diced ham, ham bone (if using), and diced Yukon Gold potatoes.

Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful bits at the bottom of the pot.

Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let cook for about 10–12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

🍲 Tip: The ham bone adds depth. If you don’t have one, it’s still great without it.

4. Make the Creamy Base

While the soup simmers, whisk melted butter and flour together in a bowl.

Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Microwave the mixture in 45–60 second bursts, whisking each time, until it thickens. Be careful—it bubbles up fast!

5. Combine and Finish

Remove the ham bone and pull off any meat to add back into the pot.

Pour the creamy milk mixture into the soup and stir until fully combined.

Add the cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.

6. Serve It Up

Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar and green onions if desired.

Serve with warm bread, biscuits, or crackers.

And if you’re like me? A cozy blanket and a big spoon are non-negotiable.

Tips for the Best Ham and Potato Soup

• Potatoes matter: Yukon Golds are ideal—they hold their shape but turn beautifully creamy.
• Leftover ham? Perfect! Just dice it small and toss it in.
• No ham bone? Use a touch of smoked paprika for added depth.
• Don’t overcook the potatoes: You want tender, not mushy.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

Common Questions About Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup

Are Yukon Gold potatoes good for soup?

Yes! They’re creamy, hold their shape, and don’t get mushy like russets.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything (except milk, flour, cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Add the milk mixture and cheese in the last 30 minutes.

What can I serve with this soup?

• Crusty bread
• Grilled cheese
• Roasted green beans or asparagus
• Garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the ham and use veggie broth. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or white beans for a protein boost.

More Cozy Soup Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup
• Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup
• Hearty Soup Recipes for Cozy Nights

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

📌 Save this Yukon Gold Potato and Ham Soup on Pinterest for later—and if you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comments below!

Print