There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a steaming bowl of soup simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with its inviting aromas. A few days after a holiday feast, I often find myself staring at leftover spiral ham in the fridge, unsure of how to breathe new life into it. That’s when I created this Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup—a dish that transforms those remnants into a soulful, creamy experience that feels like a warm embrace.

This one-pot wonder combines tender potatoes and savory ham in a rich, buttery broth that’s as easy to whip up as it is satisfying. Perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights alike, it showcases the magic of comfort food and the joy of using leftovers in an exciting way. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have a hearty meal that not only warms you from the inside out but also brings happiness to the entire family. Let’s dive into making this delightful soup together!

Why will you love Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup?

Comforting Warmth: Each bowl is a hug in soup form, brimming with creamy potatoes and wholesome ham.
Effortless Preparation: Quick and easy, this one-pot meal requires minimal clean-up—perfect for busy weeknights!
Leftover Lifesaver: Transform that leftover ham into a delicious, hearty dish that feels brand new.
Family Favorite: Its rich flavor is bound to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a go-to for family dinners.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs for a personal touch or check out our variations for more inspiration!

Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Diced Spiral Ham – Adds savory flavor and protein; use leftover cooked ham for optimal taste.
Russet Potatoes – Provide creaminess and thickening to the broth; Yukon Gold can be used but may result in firmer chunks.
Diced Onion – Enhances the soup with aromatic flavor; any onion variety can work.
Whole Garlic Cloves – Infuse the soup with a rich garlicky aroma; can substitute with minced garlic if needed.
Water – Acts as the base for the soup; chicken broth can be used for added flavor.
Mustard Seeds – Add a subtle tanginess and depth; adjust quantities to taste.
Onion Powder – Provides a burst of onion flavor without the texture; useful if you want a smoother consistency.
Garlic Powder – Offers convenience and a robust garlic taste; can be increased for a stronger flavor.
Black Pepper – Adds warmth and a hint of spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
Premium Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base – Provides a robust flavor boost; any stock base can substitute.

For the Creaminess

Butter – Used to create the roux for a creamy texture; a non-dairy substitute can be used for lactose-free options.
All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the soup; gluten-free flour can be a substitute.
Whole Milk – Creates a rich, creamy texture; substitute with a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

For Garnishing

Diced Scallions – Add a fresh finish and a pop of color; use chives as an alternative.

With these ingredients ready, you’ll be on your way to crafting a delightful Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup that your loved ones will savor!

How to Make Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine water, diced ham, cubed potatoes, diced onion, and whole garlic cloves; bring to a boil for 15 minutes until the potatoes begin to soften.
Season the Soup: Reduce heat and stir in mustard seeds, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper, allowing the flavors to meld together for a warm, inviting aroma.
Make the Roux: In a small skillet, melt butter over low-medium heat; whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened—this will create a creamy base for your soup.
Add Creaminess: Gradually add whole milk to the skillet, whisking continuously until smooth; cook for another 3 minutes over low heat to ensure it’s perfectly combined.
Mix Together: Pour the creamy mixture into the main soup pot, stirring thoroughly to blend all the ingredients into one luscious, comforting broth.
Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender and creamy, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Final Touches: Adjust seasonings as needed, serve hot, and garnish with diced scallions for a fresh pop of flavor and color.

Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal planning! You can chop the potatoes, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The diced ham can also be prepped at the same time. When you’re ready to enjoy this hearty comfort food, simply bring your prepped ingredients back to the pot, add water, and follow the cooking instructions starting from the boiling phase. To maintain the soup’s creamy texture, take care not to overcook the potatoes, and always add the milk shortly before serving to ensure it’s just as delicious and satisfying as if you made it fresh!

What to Serve with Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup?

To create a well-rounded meal that perfectly complements this creamy delight, consider these delicious pairings.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, encouraging a satisfying complete meal experience.
Simple Side Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette will add a crisp contrast to the creamy soup, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Garlic Bread: With its toasty, buttery flavor, garlic bread adds an extra comforting element, making each bite a delightful indulgence.
Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread brings a lovely texture and warmth that complements the savory ham and buttery richness of the soup.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and a nutritious crunch that brightens up the heartiness of the soup. Pairing it with a squeeze of lemon creates an inviting burst of flavor.
Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine can enhance the savory notes in the soup, making for a cozy evening with friends or family.

Each of these pairings will elevate your dining experience, settling perfectly alongside the delicious Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup.

Expert Tips for Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup

Perfect Texture: Ensure potatoes are fork-tender before adding any dairy; this prevents toughness and guarantees a creamy consistency in your Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup.
Whisk Carefully: Slowly whisk in the milk to prevent lumps; keeping the soup at a gentle simmer after adding the creaminess helps avoid curdling.
Flavor Boost: To deepen flavor, add diced ham during the last 10 minutes of cooking; this enhances the soup with more savory hints from the ham.
Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings to your preference; tasting as you go lets you customize the depth and warmth of your Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup.
Add Extra Veggies: Don’t shy away from incorporating extra vegetables like carrots or celery during the onion sauté for an added nutritional boost and flavor.

Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup Variations

Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this delicious dish for an extra touch of flavor and personality!

Hearty Veggie Addition: Toss in some chopped carrots or celery during the onion sauté for added nutrition and texture. The vibrant colors and flavors will brighten your soup beautifully!
Flavorful Herbs: Infuse your soup with fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. These aromatic additions can transform the dish and provide an enticing herbal aroma that fills your kitchen.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broth. Perfect for those who enjoy a little extra zest!
Creamy Variants: Swap whole milk for cream or half-and-half for an ultra-rich soup experience. This upgrade takes comfort food to a new level, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Protein Boost: Include additional proteins like cooked bacon or sausage for a smoky twist. This hearty addition can make the soup even more satisfying—an adventure for your taste buds!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of whole milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. This caters to those with dietary restrictions while keeping all the comforting flavors intact.
Flavored Broth: Replace water with chicken or vegetable broth for added depth. This simple swap enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite an experience of savory deliciousness.
Different Potatoes: Feel free to experiment with Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes for varied textures. Each type brings its own unique taste and feel, creating a personalized bowl of comfort!

Storage Tips for Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Allow to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally for even warming.

Reheating: For the best results, stir in a bit of milk or broth during reheating to achieve the desired creamy consistency once again.

Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for this soup?
Absolutely! Russet potatoes work wonderfully since they provide a creamy texture that thickens the broth. If you prefer a firmer texture, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used. Just keep in mind that they may hold their shape a little more, which can be delightful if you enjoy a varied bite in your soup!

How should I store leftover Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup?
You can store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if it’s thickened too much. This helps to restore that lovely creamy consistency!

Can I freeze Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze this delicious soup, allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for easy portioning. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup becomes too thick during reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring back its creamy consistency. Stir continuously until your soup is smooth and luscious again. This method not only restores texture but enhances the flavor too!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! To make the Buttery Spiral Ham and Potato Soup gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that any stock or broth you use is gluten-free. This way, you can accommodate various dietary needs while still enjoying a cozy and comforting meal.

Are there any dietary considerations with using spiral ham?
For sure! If you’re serving this soup to guests or family members with dietary restrictions, be mindful of potential allergies related to pork. Additionally, if someone in your household is watching their sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium broth or rinsing the diced ham to reduce salt content. Everyone deserves a warm bowl of soup!