This creamy, comforting Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Forget hours simmering on the stovetop; this recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful soup in a fraction of the time, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Perfect for using up leftover ham, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste and dietary needs. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What Makes This Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup Recipe Special?
This isn't your average ham and potato soup. We've focused on building layers of flavor, ensuring a rich and satisfying experience. We use a combination of techniques to achieve the perfect creamy texture without relying on heavy cream, making it a lighter yet equally delicious option. The Instant Pot ensures everything cooks evenly and perfectly tender, minimizing cleanup and maximizing your time.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Ham: Leftover ham bone and/or diced ham (about 2 cups) – the bone adds incredible depth of flavor!
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, but Yukon Golds work well too.
- Onion & Celery: These aromatics form the base of the soup's flavor profile.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent punch.
- Broth: Chicken or ham broth works best, enhancing the savory notes.
- Carrots: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, bay leaf, thyme – simple seasonings that elevate the flavors.
- Optional additions: Heavy cream (for extra richness), milk or half-and-half (for a lighter creaminess), fresh parsley (for garnish), and a squeeze of lemon juice (for brightness).
Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup:
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Sauté (Optional): If you prefer a deeper flavor, sauté the onions, celery, and carrots in a little oil in the Instant Pot's sauté function before adding the other ingredients. This step isn't strictly necessary but adds a nice depth of flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the ham (bone and meat), potatoes, garlic, broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the Instant Pot.
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Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to "sealing." Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, depending on the size of your potato pieces.
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Natural Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
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Blend (Optional): For a creamier soup, carefully remove about 1/3 of the soup and blend it using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir to combine.
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Season & Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in any optional additions like cream, milk, or lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Troubleshooting Your Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup:
H2: My soup is too thick. What can I do?
If your soup is too thick, simply add more broth, a splash of milk, or even water until you reach your desired consistency.
H2: My potatoes aren't fully cooked. What went wrong?
This could be due to using very large potato pieces or not cooking long enough. Ensure your potatoes are cut into relatively uniform, bite-sized pieces. If necessary, add a few extra minutes to the pressure cooking time.
H2: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
H2: Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup:
- Use a ham bone: The ham bone adds an incredible depth of flavor that you won't get from just using diced ham.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm potatoes.
- Season to taste: Adjust the seasonings to your preferences.
- Get creative with your add-ins: Experiment with different vegetables, herbs, or spices to customize your soup.
This Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering. Enjoy!
