If you’ve enjoyed a honey-baked ham and are left with a flavorful ham bone, don’t let it go to waste! Transform it into a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for any day. This Honey Baked Ham Bone Soup is packed with tender ham, savory vegetables, and creamy potatoes, all simmered in a rich broth. It’s an excellent way to make the most of your leftovers and create a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Table of Contents
🕒 Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 6-8 people
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups honey baked ham, diced (leftovers work great!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (russet or Yukon Gold are ideal)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
- Crusty bread or rolls (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. - Add Potatoes and Ham:
Stir in the diced potatoes and honey baked ham. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. - Pour in Broth and Simmer:
Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried parsley to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. - Incorporate Cream and Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through. - Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans for added nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Use Different Herbs: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, dill, or basil to change the flavor profile.
- Incorporate Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
Storage and Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: The diced ham provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach add vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
- Calcium and Healthy Fats: The addition of cream offers calcium and healthy fats, which are important for bone health and satiety.
- Low in Carbohydrates: Depending on the type of potatoes used and the amount of cream, this soup can be relatively low in carbohydrates, especially if using cauliflower instead of potatoes.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Honey Baked Ham Bone Soup, a perfect way to utilize leftovers and warm up on any day!
