Indulge in the ultimate winter warmer: a slow cooker chunky ham, potato, cheese, and broccoli soup that’s both nutritious and indulgent. This rich and hearty crockpot concoction is the perfect way to repurpose leftover ham, and I’m confident you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
What sets this soup apart is its incredibly satisfying texture – thick, creamy, and utterly delicious. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to prepare, making it a staple in your slow cooker repertoire.
If you’re as enamored with this recipe as I am, you might also appreciate other comforting creations like our sheet pan ham dinner, sweet onion honey glazed ham, or leftover ham, broccoli, and cheese crescent cups. The common thread? They all share that same warm, fuzzy feeling we crave on a chilly winter’s day.
One of the soup’s greatest strengths is its versatility – you can enjoy it as thick as a casserole or thin it out to suit your taste. Serve it up with some crusty bread for dipping, and get ready for a cleaning frenzy (or should I say, ‘plate-cleaning’ frenzy?)
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Chunky Ham, Potato, Cheese and Broccoli Soup
The convenience of this cheesy ham and broccoli chowder recipe lies in its speed to prepare. To start, simply combine the broccoli soup and milk into a slow cooker, then add butter, salt, pepper, and garlic for added flavor. Once these ingredients are mixed, it’s time to introduce the main event: chunky ham, diced potatoes, cheese, and of course, fresh broccoli. Add about one-third of the total cheese, followed by a gentle stir. Let the slow cooker do its magic, cooking on high for three hours or low for five hours. Finally, mix in the remaining cheese until it’s fully melted, then serve hot and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Chowder Variations
The versatility of slow cooker ham, potato, cheese and broccoli soup is one of its greatest strengths. With endless possibilities for customization, you can easily substitute the broccoli with mushroom, chicken or any other vegetable that suits your taste. The cheddar cheese can be swapped out for another type, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, while russet potatoes can be replaced with sweet potatoes for a unique twist. Additionally, garlic powder can be substituted with onion powder to change up the flavor profile.
If you prefer a lighter consistency in your soup, simply add milk and stir well before cooking. This will help achieve a thinner texture that’s perfect for serving as a standalone meal or using as a dip. If you don’t mind a thicker soup, omitting the milk won’t be a problem – it can still be enjoyed as a hearty casserole or sauce. Half & Half or heavy cream are also viable alternatives to milk if you prefer an even richer flavor.
Can You Use Leftover Ham?
Comfort foods often emerge from the ashes of holiday gatherings, repurposing leftovers into satisfying meals. Take turkey sandwiches on the day (or even days) following Thanksgiving as a prime example. Similarly, this rich and comforting crockpot soup finds new life when made with leftover ham, transforming it into a warm and inviting meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Chowder FAQs
When it comes to storing cheesy ham and broccoli soup, the most effective approach is to transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life or prepare individual servings, consider freezing the soup in portions. This will allow you to enjoy it as a quick and easy lunch option later on.
Regarding the use of frozen broccoli, it’s entirely acceptable to substitute it for fresh broccoli. Since the cooking process thaws and softens the frozen vegetables, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Additionally, feel free to add other veggies to create a more diverse and flavorful soup.
When reheating leftover soup, you have the flexibility to choose between microwaving or using a pan on the stove. Both methods will effectively warm the soup without compromising its taste or texture.
Slow Cooker Chunky Ham, Potato, Cheese and Broccoli Soup Recipe
Slow Cooker Chunky Ham, Potato, Cheese and Broccoli Soup
Imagine curling up with a warm, comforting bowl of slow cooker chunky ham, potato, cheese, and broccoli soup on a chilly winter day. This indulgent crockpot soup is a masterclass in rich flavor, with tender chunks of ham, potatoes, and broccoli swimming in a creamy broth. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make using leftover ham, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time before letting your slow cooker do all the work for a leisurely 5 hours.
Equipment
Instructions
To create this delicious potato dish, start by preparing your potatoes. Peel them and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Next, combine canned cream of broccoli soup, whole milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined. Then, add the broccoli florets, diced ham, and potato cubes to the slow cooker. Top the ingredients with one cup of shredded cheese and use a spoon or spatula to stir until everything is well coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for five hours or high for three hours. Once the cooking time has elapsed, remove the lid and give the mixture a good stir. Finally, add any remaining cheese to the slow cooker and continue to cook until it’s melted and bubbly.