Creamy Potato Soup with Turkey Ham

How to make Creamy Potato Soup with Turkey Ham

Ingredients :

6 slices turkey ham or cooked beef sausage, diced
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup diced white or yellow onion
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
2 cups milk
1 pound Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

Directions :

Start by melting the butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced turkey ham or beef sausage and cook until they are browned and slightly crispy. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once they are cooked, remove them from the pot and set aside for later; they will serve as a tasty topping for the soup.

Next, add the diced onion to the same pot. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it is soft and translucent. This step will add lots of flavors to your soup. Stir in the flour and cook it for another minute. This will help create a roux, which gives the soup that rich and velvety body that everyone loves.

Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable stock, followed by the milk. It’s important to stir well to prevent lumps from forming. Once combined, add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to keep the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

If you prefer your soup to be thicker, you have a couple of options. You can use an immersion blender to purée some of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion to a blender, pulse until smooth, and then stir it back into the pot. Leaving some chunks intact will add a wonderful texture.

Next, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheese, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and the cooked meat you set aside earlier. Season this mix with salt and black pepper to taste.

Finally, ladle the soup into bowls. Feel free to top it off with your favorite fixings! You can add a little extra cheese, green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or even more crispy turkey ham. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato Soup with Turkey Ham

This creamy potato soup with turkey ham is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It combines the classic flavors of potato soup with the savory taste of turkey ham, making it a balanced meal. The addition of cheese and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) adds a creamy texture that elevates the dish.

Not only does it taste great, but it’s also quite versatile. You can enjoy it as a hearty lunch or pair it with a salad or sandwich for dinner. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a family-friendly recipe.

Nutriments benefits

This soup is not just satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of some key ingredients and what they bring to the table:

Potatoes: They are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. They help keep you full and energized.
Turkey Ham: This offers a leaner protein option compared to regular ham. It has lower fat and fewer calories, making it a healthier choice.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: These ingredients add creaminess and tanginess while providing probiotics for gut health.
Cheddar Cheese: It’s full of calcium, which is essential for building strong bones.

With these nutritious ingredients, you can enjoy a tasty meal without sacrificing your health.

What to Serve With Creamy Potato Soup with Turkey Ham

This creamy potato soup goes well with multiple side dishes. Consider serving it with:

These sides complement the richness of the soup and create a satisfying meal.

How to store Creamy Potato Soup with Turkey Ham

If you have leftover soup, it’s easy to store! Allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and heat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Making this soup is fairly straightforward, but here are some tips to ensure success:

Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time to sauté the onions until they are soft. This builds flavor.
Gradually Add Stock: When whisking in the stock, do it slowly to avoid lumps.
Chunky vs. Smooth: Decide early if you want a smooth or chunky soup—this will affect how much you blend it.
Season to Taste: Always taste your soup at the end and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Variation (if any)

You can easily customize this creamy potato soup according to your taste:

Add Vegetables: Toss in some carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Different Meats: If you don’t have turkey ham, try bacon, smoked sausage, or even left-over turkey from a holiday feast.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different seasonings, like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves, for added layers of flavor.

These changes can make the soup fit your mood or dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Is this soup gluten-free?
- To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
- Absolutely! Simply replace the turkey ham with a plant-based sausage or skip the meat altogether. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock too.

With these tips, variations, and answers to common questions, you’re ready to make this delicious and creamy potato soup with turkey ham! Whether you’re having it for lunch, dinner, or as a comfort meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy your cooking!

Laura