If you love comforting soups, this honey baked ham soup is a must-try! It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for using up leftover ham. Plus, the touch of honey adds a delicious sweetness that balances the smoky ham flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Great use for leftover ham – No more wasting leftovers!
- Sweet and savory – The mix of honey and ham makes it incredibly tasty.
- Simple ingredients – Most items are already in your kitchen.
- Perfect for cold days – A warm, hearty soup to keep you cozy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this honey baked ham soup, gather these ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups honey-baked ham (chopped)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (for a creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon honey (for a subtle sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup potatoes (diced)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup corn (for a little crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a smoky kick)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for extra creaminess)
How to Make Honey Baked Ham Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Add Ham and Potatoes
- Toss in the chopped honey-baked ham and diced potatoes.
- Stir well so the flavors blend together.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
- Add chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Add Honey and Seasoning
- Stir in honey, thyme, black pepper, and paprika.
- Let it cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
- Reduce heat to low and slowly pour in heavy cream.
- Stir well and let it cook for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for the Best Soup
- Use homemade broth for a richer flavor.
- Adjust sweetness – If you like it sweeter, add more honey.
- Blend it – For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup before adding the cream.
- Freeze for later – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup without cream?
Yes! You can substitute cream with milk or leave it out for a lighter version.
2. What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or brown sugar can work as a replacement.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use other meats?
Yes! Smoked turkey or chicken can replace ham.
5. How can I make it spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Final Thoughts
This honey baked ham soup is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a comforting meal for any time of the year. Whether you’re using leftover ham from a holiday feast or just craving a hearty bowl of soup, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the ingredients to match your taste!
Try this delicious soup today and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Enjoy your homemade honey baked ham soup! 😊
