A beloved flavor combination is transformed into a truly indulgent soup! Savory Ham & Cheese Soup is richer, creamier, and meatier than any ham & cheese sandwich you can find, while still delivering on that delicious pork flavor. Infused with sharp cheddar cheese and salty bacon, Savory Ham & Cheese Soup doesn’t just warm your spirits on a cold winter evening; the aroma alone will wrap around you like a delicious blanket!
Ingredients
- 5 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups ham, diced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Directions
Step 1 –In a soup pan or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Step 2 –Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined bowl. Set the bacon pieces aside and reserve the drippings in the pan.
Step 3 –Add the onion and bell pepper to the pan or Dutch oven.
Step 4 –Season with salt and pepper and sauté over medium heat until the vegetables start to caramelize, for about 8-10 minutes.
Step 5 –Transfer the vegetables to a bowl and set them aside.
Step 6 –Add the butter to the pan to melt.
Step 7 –Once the butter is melted, add the flour and cook together until foamy and golden, about 2 minutes.
Step 8 –Add the cooked bacon, cooked vegetables, ham, and potatoes and sauté for about 2 minutes.
Step 9 –Stir in the milk and cream and reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step 10 –Cook, stirring frequently, until the potatoes become tender, about 15 minutes.
Step 11 –Remove the soup from the heat.
Step 12 –Stir in the cheese, rosemary, and thyme.
Step 13 –Serve once the cheese is completely melted.
