Cheesy ham and potato soup is a classic American comfort dish that grew out of farmhouse cooking, where ham bones and leftover potatoes were stretched into a filling, creamy soup for families during colder months.

In the Midwest, the soup often includes corn and uses cheddar; in the South, it may feature smoked ham and a dash of hot sauce; New England versions sometimes add clams for a chowder twist.

It is typically ladled into deep bowls, topped with extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of parsley, and served alongside crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

The soup is popular for family gatherings, potlucks, and as a warming starter on chilly evenings, especially during holiday seasons like Thanksgiving when leftover ham is abundant.

It embodies the American comfort food ethos of using simple, pantry‑friendly ingredients—potatoes, ham, cheese—to create a rich, satisfying dish that feels both hearty and nostalgic.

Traditional ingredients include diced potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, cooked ham, sharp cheddar, heavy cream, and chicken bouillon. Acceptable substitutes are sweet potatoes for potatoes, turkey ham for ham, half‑and‑half for cream, and flour slurry instead of cornstarch.

It pairs nicely with a simple green salad, crusty sourdough bread, or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. For a full meal, serve it alongside a baked chicken breast or a turkey sandwich.

The combination of a creamy cheddar‑based broth with tender ham and the thickening power of mashed potatoes creates a velvety texture that sets it apart from typical clear broth soups.

Common errors include not submerging the vegetables, over‑cooking the cornstarch slurry which can make the soup gummy, and adding cheese when the soup is too hot, causing it to clump.

Cornstarch provides a glossy, smooth thickening without adding extra starch flavor, and it works quickly at lower temperatures, preserving the delicate cheese melt.

Yes, the soup can be prepared a day ahead. Cool it quickly, refrigerate in an airtight container, and reheat on low, adding the cream and cheese at the end to maintain creaminess.

The YouTube channel Carman Wilken focuses on easy, family‑friendly home cooking tutorials, often featuring one‑pot meals, slow‑cooker recipes, and practical kitchen hacks for everyday cooks.

Carman Wilken emphasizes minimal prep, clear step‑by‑step narration, and uses common pantry ingredients, making classic comfort dishes accessible without fancy equipment or hard‑to‑find items.