Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup

(Creamy, Hearty, and Perfect for Cozy Days)

Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with tender potatoes and savory ham, all simmered gently to bring out deep, satisfying flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy days—just add everything to the slow cooker, let it do the work, and come home to a warm, homemade meal.

Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or starting fresh, this soup is a delicious way to turn simple ingredients into something truly comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy slow cooker meal
Creamy and filling
Great use for leftover ham
Perfect for meal prep
Family-friendly comfort food

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total Time: Up to 8 hours
Slow Cooker Size: 5–6 quart
Yield: 6–8 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients

3 cups diced cooked ham
4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker

Place ham, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika into the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on:

LOW for 6–8 hours, or
HIGH for 3–4 hours,
until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker soup, mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold milk to make a slurry. Stir it into the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Add Dairy

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the butter, milk, and cream. Continue cooking until heated through.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Tips for the Best Ham and Potato Soup

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally creamy texture.
Don’t over-salt early—ham and broth already add salt.
Add dairy at the end to prevent curdling.
Mash some potatoes in the slow cooker for extra thickness.
Leftover ham bone adds extra flavor if available.

Variations

Cheesy Version: Stir in shredded cheddar during the last 15 minutes.
Vegetable Boost: Add corn or peas near the end.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or unsweetened oat milk.
Thicker Chowder Style: Reduce broth slightly and add more potatoes.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze without dairy for up to 3 months; add milk and cream when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls
Pair with a simple green salad
Top with shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits
Perfect for lunches, dinners, or meal prep

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Ham and Potato Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal—simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. It’s a great way to stretch leftover ham into a nourishing dish the whole family will enjoy. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this soup belongs in every slow cooker recipe collection.