There’s something comforting about a bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup, especially when it’s chilly outside. This rich and creamy soup, filled with tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese, is the perfect meal for a cozy dinner. Whether you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal or a way to use up leftover ham, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a warm bowl of comfort any day of the week.
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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
This Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is everything you need in a hearty meal: quick, flavorful, and simple to make. It’s ideal for busy days, as it takes just minutes to prepare in the morning, then simmers away in the crockpot, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity — just a few staple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying.
Perfect for cold weather or when you want a comforting dinner that doesn’t require much work, this soup can easily be adjusted to fit your preferences. You can add more veggies, choose different types of cheese, or even make it spicier if desired. Whether served with warm dinner rolls or a side salad, it’s a family-friendly meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need for this comforting slow cooker recipe:
• Ham: Adds savory depth to the soup, using leftover ham or cooked ham slices.
• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy base.
• Velveeta Cheese: Known for its smooth melting, Velveeta creates the creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting.
• Water: The liquid base that helps cook the potatoes and ham until tender.
• Instant Mashed Potato Flakes: A thickening agent that adds richness and smoothness to the soup.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking to tweak this recipe or work with what you have on hand, consider these alternatives:
• Cheddar Cheese: If you prefer sharp cheddar over Velveeta, you can substitute it, but make sure to melt it separately before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid clumping.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a slightly different twist, try using sweet potatoes in place of russet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrition.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth, adding extra veggies like corn, broccoli, or cauliflower for a delicious meatless version.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to make your Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup:
- Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. You’ll need about 4 cups of cubed potatoes for this recipe. - Add the Ham
Cube your ham into bite-sized pieces and add it to the slow cooker with the potatoes. - Cook the Soup
Pour 6 cups of water into the slow cooker and give everything a good stir. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender. - Melt the Cheese
Once the potatoes are cooked, add 16 ounces of Velveeta, cubed. Stir until the cheese is completely melted, creating a smooth and creamy texture. - Thicken the Soup
To thicken the soup, gradually add instant mashed potato flakes, stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, serve with warm rolls, and enjoy your homemade comfort food.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Ham and Cheese Soup
Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup turns out perfect every time:
• Avoid Over-Thickening: If you prefer a thinner soup, don’t overdo the instant mashed potatoes. Add them slowly to control the texture.
• Flavor Boosts: For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or freshly ground black pepper.
• Stovetop Alternative: If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can easily make this soup on the stovetop. Simply cook the potatoes and ham in a large pot until tender, then add the cheese and stir until melted.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:
• Side Dishes: Serve it with fresh dinner rolls, a crisp green salad, or some crusty bread for dipping.
• Toppings: Garnish with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or shredded cheddar cheese for an extra flavor boost.
• Variations: Try adding a handful of vegetables like carrots, corn, or even peas to make the soup heartier. For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Why Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is a Perfect Winter Dish
This comforting soup is the perfect choice for chilly days, as it provides warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. The combination of ham, cheese, and potatoes makes it an incredibly hearty dish that can easily feed a family or a group of friends. It’s also budget-friendly, as it can be made using leftover ham, which cuts down on food waste.
Additionally, Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is a great make-ahead meal. It stores well in the fridge for a few days and can also be frozen for later. Just store the cooled soup in an airtight container for up to three months, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
This soup is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation.
By following these easy steps, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing for a busy week ahead, this recipe will make mealtime a breeze.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity and flavor in the best possible way. With its creamy, cheesy texture and hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something filling yet easy to prepare. Whether you’re using leftover ham or buying fresh, the recipe is versatile, and you can customize it to your liking by adding extra vegetables or trying different types of cheese. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it a great option for those who want a no-fuss meal without compromising on taste.
This dish is also great for meal prepping, storing leftovers, and even freezing for a future dinner. It’s an all-season favorite that’s perfect for chilly weather, and with just a few ingredients, you’ll have a rich, savory soup ready to enjoy in no time.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
Can I use regular cheddar cheese instead of Velveeta in Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can! If you prefer cheddar cheese, just keep in mind that it may not melt as smoothly as Velveeta. To get the best results with cheddar, shred it yourself and heat it in a saucepan with milk to create a smooth cheese sauce. Then, stir the sauce into the slow cooker once the potatoes are tender.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes very well. Once the soup has cooled, store it in an airtight container and place it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I make Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup thicker?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, try adding instant mashed potato flakes. Start with a small amount and gradually stir it into the soup until you reach your desired thickness. Be careful not to add too much, as it can turn the soup into a casserole.
More Relevant Recipes
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Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Ham and Cheese Soup is a hearty and creamy comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese, this recipe is easy to prepare and will warm you up on cold days. It’s ideal for using leftover ham and makes a delicious family meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed ham
- 4 cups cubed russet potatoes
- 6 cups water
- 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup instant mashed potato flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and cube the russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Cube the ham into bite-sized pieces and add it to the slow cooker with the potatoes.
- Pour 6 cups of water into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add the Velveeta cheese and stir until melted.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, gradually add instant mashed potato flakes, stirring until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve hot with your favorite bread or dinner rolls.
Notes
- If using cheddar cheese instead of Velveeta, melt it separately and stir it into the soup.
- You can add extra vegetables like corn or broccoli to make the soup heartier.
- This soup freezes well; store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ham with vegetable broth and extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours (high) or 6-8 hours (low)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 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
