Warm up your family with this hearty, comforting Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and filling. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and savory soup with minimal effort. Whether you’re using leftover ham or fresh ingredients, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into how to make this cozy dish that’s ideal for any cold weather.
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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
This Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is the perfect blend of rich, creamy flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a comfort food fix, or a great way to use up leftover ham, this soup ticks all the boxes. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, making it a budget-friendly option as well. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, so you can focus on other tasks while it simmers to perfection.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious slow cooker ham and cheese soup:
- Ham: Adds protein and that savory, smoky flavor. Use leftover ham or pre-cooked ham from the grocery store.
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes are the base of this soup, providing a hearty texture and acting as a thickener as they cook.
- Velveeta Cheese: This processed cheese melts perfectly, giving the soup a smooth and creamy texture. It’s an easy option to ensure your soup has that perfect cheesy consistency.
- Instant Potato Flakes: Optional, but they help thicken the soup if desired. Just add a little at a time to avoid making the soup too thick.
- Water: The liquid base of the soup. You can adjust the amount based on your desired consistency.
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you prefer a different flavor profile or have dietary preferences, here are some swaps you can try:
- Cheddar Cheese: If Velveeta isn’t your thing, you can substitute with shredded cheddar cheese. To melt it properly, create a cheese sauce and add it to the slow cooker towards the end.
- Vegetables: For a more nutritious soup, consider adding frozen peas, carrots, or corn. These vegetables blend well and add color and flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cheese and substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk. Instant mashed potatoes can still be used to thicken the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect slow cooker ham and cheese soup:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cubing the potatoes. You’ll need about four large russet potatoes to make four cups of cubes.
- Prepare the Ham: Cube the ham into bite-sized pieces. If you have leftover ham, this is the perfect recipe to use it. Alternatively, you can use store-bought cooked ham.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Add the cubed potatoes, ham, and water to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine.
- Cook the Soup: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours. The potatoes should be fork-tender when done.
- Add Cheese: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the Velveeta cheese to the slow cooker and stir until it melts completely into the soup.
- Thicken the Soup: If you’d like a thicker soup, stir in instant potato flakes gradually. Be careful not to add too much, as it can turn the soup into a casserole!
- Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and the soup has reached your desired thickness, serve it hot with some fresh dinner rolls.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
- Use Fresh Potatoes: For the best texture, use fresh potatoes instead of pre-cubed ones. While pre-cut options are convenient, fresh potatoes give a firmer bite and better flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more water or milk to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
- Leftover Ham: This soup is an excellent way to repurpose leftover ham from holiday dinners or other meals. The more flavor-packed your ham, the tastier the soup.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are a few pairing ideas:
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the soup.
- Bread: Serve with crusty dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a slice of warm sourdough for dipping.
- Toppings: Top your soup with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, or fresh herbs like chives for added flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Version: Make this soup vegan by using plant-based ham and dairy-free cheese.
- Slow Cooker Corn Chowder: Want to switch things up? Try a corn chowder version of this recipe by adding fresh or frozen corn kernels.
Health Benefits of Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
While delicious, this soup also offers some nutritional benefits. The ham provides a good source of protein, and the potatoes offer fiber and potassium. If you opt for additional vegetables, you can easily increase the soup’s vitamin and mineral content.
Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a hearty soup to warm you up, Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy texture, savory flavor, and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, the slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free dinner. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is a perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the savory goodness of ham, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the heartiness of potatoes. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sides, it’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will love. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and tips to make it your own!
Now that you know how to make this easy and delicious soup, it’s time to gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal.
FAQ: Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Can I use cheddar cheese instead of Velveeta for this soup?
Yes, you can! While Velveeta melts beautifully and creates a smooth texture, you can substitute it with cheddar cheese. For best results, shred the cheese and create a cheese sauce by melting it in milk. Slowly stir it into the soup once the potatoes are cooked.
How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, instant mashed potato flakes are a great option. Add them gradually, stirring to incorporate. Be careful not to overdo it, as too many flakes can make the soup more like a casserole.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add a variety of vegetables like corn, broccoli, or cauliflower. These will not only enhance the flavor but also increase the nutritional value of your soup. Add them alongside the potatoes for an easy and wholesome meal.
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Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is a hearty, creamy, and savory dish made with tender potatoes, savory ham, and melty Velveeta cheese. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ham. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do all the work, resulting in a comforting, flavorful meal the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (on high) or 6-8 hours (on low)
- Total Time: 3-4 hours (on high) or 6-8 hours (on low)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed ham
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 6 cups water
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup instant potato flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. You’ll need about four large russet potatoes to make four cups of cubes.
- Cube the ham into bite-sized pieces. Use leftover ham or pre-cooked ham from the store.
- Place the potatoes, ham, and water into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the cubed Velveeta cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add instant potato flakes slowly, stirring until you reach the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the soup too thick.
- Once the soup is ready, serve hot with dinner rolls or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a thicker soup, use instant mashed potato flakes to reach your preferred texture.
- You can add other vegetables such as corn, broccoli, or cauliflower to the soup.
- If you prefer cheddar cheese, shred it and melt it separately to create a cheese sauce before adding it to the soup.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to serve.
- For a spicier version, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/4 cup
- Calories: 359 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1512mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 88mg
