As the holiday festivities wind down, your refrigerator is left brimming with delicious leftovers. Rather than letting those remnants go to waste, why not transform those leftovers into a comforting and flavorful cheesy ham and potato soup? This simple yet hearty dish will not only utilize your holiday ham and potatoes but also provide a warm and satisfying meal for the entire family.
Start by gathering your holiday leftovers of succulent ham and those extra potatoes that somehow escaped the feast. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces, ensuring every flavorful morsel finds its way into the soup. Chop the potatoes into hearty chunks, ready to soak up the savory broth.
In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and any other aromatic vegetables you have on hand. The lingering scents will fill your kitchen with anticipation. Add the diced ham to infuse the base with rich flavor.
Next, toss in those chunky potatoes and pour in water, or a savory broth made from your holiday turkey or chicken stock. Let the ingredients simmer together, melding into a harmonious union.
Not only does this ham and potato soup provide a second act for holiday leftovers, but it also serves as a nutritious and satisfying post-celebration dish. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and savor the transformation of holiday remnants into a delightful meal that warms the heart and nourishes the soul.
Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 2 c. boiling water
- 1/2 c. carrots diced
- 2 c. potatoes diced
- 1/2 c. celery diced
- 1/4 c. onion diced
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1/4 c. butter
- 1/4 c. flour
- 2 c. milk
- 1 c. cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 c. cooked ham cubed
Instructions
- Add the boiling water to the vegetables. Add salt and pepper.
- Simmer 10 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat. Do NOT drain.
- In a kettle, melt butter then stir in flour and add the milk. Stir until thick.
- Add the vegetables and ham. Stir in cheese. Do NOT let boil.
- Simmer until ready to serve.