Let me tell you, I absolutely adore making leftover ham soup in the slow cooker. It’s one of those recipes that has become a staple in my home, especially after holiday feasts. I can’t count how many times I’ve whipped up this comforting bowl of deliciousness—each time, it’s a crowd-pleaser! The aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. If you have leftover ham sitting in your fridge, trust me, this is the perfect way to transform it into a hearty meal that warms your soul!
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Slow Cooker Leftover Ham Soup
- Effortless Preparation: Toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever veggies you have on hand—this soup is all about flexibility!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and vegetables with the savory ham creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, and you’ll have leftovers for days—great for busy weeknights!
- Visual Appeal: The colorful veggies not only add flavor but also make the soup look vibrant and inviting!
The Secret to Perfect Leftover Ham Soup
The key to making this leftover ham soup truly special is the slow cooking process. It allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and hearty soup. My insider tip? Don’t rush the cooking time! Let it simmer for at least 6-8 hours on low. This allows the ham to infuse the broth with its savory goodness. And here’s another little secret: adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens up the flavors like you wouldn’t believe. Anyone can make this soup; just follow the steps, and you’ll impress everyone at the dinner table!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“This soup is a game-changer! I never knew leftover ham could taste this good. My family can’t get enough!” — Sarah M.
“I made this for my book club, and everyone begged for the recipe! It’s now a regular in my meal rotation.” — Lisa R.
“I was skeptical at first, but this soup blew my mind! It’s comforting and so easy to make.” — John T.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños and a dash of cumin for a kick!
- Italian Twist: Incorporate Italian herbs and diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese right before serving for a creamy texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ham for mushrooms and add extra beans for protein.
Bonus: Try adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last 30 minutes for an extra nutritional boost!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use fresh ham instead of leftover ham? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is tender.
How do I store leftover ham soup? Let the soup cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just make sure to leave some space in the container as it will expand.
What if my soup is too thick? You can easily add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months—great for quick meals later!
- Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Perfect Occasions for Hearty Slow Cooker Leftover Ham Soup
- Cozy family dinners on chilly nights.
- Game day gatherings with friends.
- Potluck parties—everyone will want the recipe!
- Busy weeknights when you need a quick meal.
- After the holidays, to use up leftover ham deliciously!
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me through this delicious journey! Now, let’s get to the good stuff—here’s how to make your own amazing leftover ham soup.
Hearty Slow Cooker Leftover Ham Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
Tip: Make sure to taste the soup before serving; you might want to adjust the seasoning based on your ham’s saltiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Chop Your Veggies
Start by prepping your vegetables. Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and dice the celery and potatoes. The more colorful your veggies, the prettier your soup will be!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine the diced ham, chopped veggies, diced tomatoes, broth, thyme, and garlic powder. Give everything a good stir to mix the flavors together.
Step 3: Set It & Forget It
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavors will develop, so I always opt for low and slow!
Step 4: Final Touches
About 30 minutes before serving, check the soup’s consistency. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth. If you’re using spinach or kale, toss it in now!
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Once ready, serve the soup in bowls, and don’t forget some crusty bread on the side. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl!
Nutrition Info: This soup is packed with nutrients, providing protein from the ham and fiber from the veggies, making it a balanced meal option!
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A delicious and hearty leftover ham soup slow cooker recipe that is sure to impress. It’s comforting, easy to make, and perfect for using up that leftover ham. I can’t recommend it enough! Grab your slow cooker and give it a try; I promise you won’t regret it. Your family and friends will be coming back for seconds, and you’ll be the star of every gathering!