Perfect Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe

The best crockpot ham and potato soup combines diced ham, potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and seasonings cooked on low for 6-8 hours. This easy slow cooker recipe yields a creamy, hearty soup with minimal prep time and hands-off cooking for perfect results every time.

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of ham and potato soup, especially when it's made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This crockpot ham and potato soup recipe transforms simple pantry staples and leftover holiday ham into a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Unlike stove-top versions that require constant attention, the slow cooker method develops deeper flavors while you go about your day.

Why This Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Works

The magic of slow cooking allows the natural starches from the potatoes to thicken the broth perfectly without needing a roux. As the ingredients simmer gently, the ham releases its savory flavor throughout the soup while the vegetables become tender without turning to mush. This easy crockpot ham and potato soup recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep time before your slow cooker takes over.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ham and Potato Soup

Quality ingredients make the difference between good and exceptional soup. Here's what you'll need for the best slow cooker ham soup that serves 6-8 people:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Cubed cooked ham	2 cups	Leftover holiday ham works perfectly
Yukon Gold potatoes	3 lbs	Unpeeled for added texture and nutrients
Yellow onion	1 large	Diced medium
Carrots	2 medium	Peeled and diced
Celery	2 stalks	Diced
Chicken broth	4 cups	Low-sodium preferred
Heavy cream	1 cup	Added at the end for creaminess
Butter	2 tbsp	For sautéing vegetables

Step-by-Step Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup Instructions

Preparation (15 minutes)

Peel and dice potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes (leave skin on for extra fiber)
Dice onion, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces
If using leftover ham, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
Melt butter in skillet over medium heat and sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until slightly softened

Slow Cooking Process (6-8 hours)

Transfer sautéed vegetables to crockpot
Add potatoes, ham, chicken broth, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper
Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in heavy cream and fresh parsley
Remove bay leaf before serving

Pro Tips for the Creamiest Ham and Potato Soup

Follow these slow cooker ham and potato soup tips for restaurant-quality results:

Don't overcook the potatoes - Yukon Golds hold their shape better than russets in slow cooking
Use quality ham - Leftover baked ham from holidays provides the best flavor
Thicken naturally - Mash some potatoes against the side of the crockpot during the last hour for creamier texture
Acid balance - A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavors
Layer flavors - Sautéing vegetables first creates a flavor foundation

Delicious Variations for Your Crockpot Ham Soup

Customize this creamy ham and potato soup crockpot recipe to suit your taste:

Loaded baked potato version - Top with shredded cheddar, bacon bits, and chives
Vegetarian option - Omit ham and use vegetable broth with smoked paprika for similar flavor
Spicy kick - Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños
Extra hearty - Stir in 1 cup frozen corn or peas during the last hour
Dairy-free version - Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This easy crockpot ham and potato soup stores beautifully for meal prep:

Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezing: Freeze without dairy for up to 3 months (add cream when reheating)
Reheating: Warm on stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally
Reviving: Add splashes of broth if soup thickens too much after storage

Perfect Pairings for Ham and Potato Soup

Serve your slow cooker ham and potato soup with these complementary sides:

Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread
Fresh green salad with light vinaigrette
Grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping
Simple coleslaw for contrast

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fix these potential problems with your crockpot ham potato soup:

Soup too thin: Mash some potatoes against crockpot side or mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir in during last 30 minutes
Soup too thick: Add additional broth or water, 1/4 cup at a time
Vegetables too mushy: Reduce cooking time by 1-2 hours next time
Flavor too bland: Add more salt in small increments or a splash of Worcestershire sauce

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen potatoes for crockpot ham and potato soup?

Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes to save prep time, but add them during the last 2-3 hours of cooking on LOW to prevent them from becoming too soft. Fresh potatoes generally yield better texture in slow cooker soups.

How do I prevent potatoes from turning brown in the crockpot?

To prevent browning, place cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar until ready to use. The acid helps maintain their color. Add them directly from the water to your crockpot without rinsing.

Can I make crockpot ham and potato soup without cream?

Absolutely. For a dairy-free version, omit the cream and instead blend 1-2 cups of the cooked soup (without ham) and return it to the crockpot. This creates natural creaminess while keeping the soup dairy-free and still rich.

What's the best type of ham to use for this soup recipe?

Leftover baked ham from holidays provides the best flavor, but you can also use deli ham (avoid highly processed varieties). Ham steak cut into cubes works well too. Avoid honey-glazed or heavily smoked hams as they can overpower the soup's balance.

How long does ham and potato soup last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, crockpot ham and potato soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors often improve on day two as ingredients continue to meld. Always reheat to 165°F (74°C) before serving.