slow cooker ham and potato soup

Certainly! Here’s a simple recipe for slow cooker ham and potato soup. This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of ham, diced
• 6 cups of potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 6 cups of chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of milk
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Dice the ham, peel and dice the potatoes, chop the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery.
   • Mince the garlic.

1. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
   • Place the diced ham, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic into the slow cooker.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings:
   • Pour in the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
   • Add dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make the Creamy Base:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until well combined and there are no lumps.
   • About 30 minutes before serving, gradually stir the milk and flour mixture into the slow cooker. This will thicken the soup.

1. Finish and Serve:
   • Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until the soup has thickened.
   • If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
   • Remove the bay leaf before serving.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can accompany it with crusty bread or your favorite side.

Enjoy your delicious slow cooker ham and potato soup! Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.