Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

Cheddar turkey ham soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy cheese with hearty chunks of turkey ham and tender vegetables. This soup is warm, filling, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a cozy, homemade meal.

What makes this soup stand out is the combination of textures and flavors. The sharpness of cheddar cheese blends beautifully with the savory turkey ham, while the broth remains silky and creamy. With added potatoes, carrots, and celery, this dish is wholesome and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring just one pot and minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a family gathering, this soup delivers on both taste and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

• Rich and Creamy Texture – A silky cheese-infused broth makes this soup indulgent.

• Packed with Protein – Turkey ham and cheddar cheese provide a hearty, protein-rich meal.

• One-Pot Recipe – Easy to make with minimal cleanup required.

• Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.

• Make-Ahead Friendly – The flavors develop beautifully over time, making leftovers even better.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 18g

• Fat: 18g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients for Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 2 cups turkey ham, cubed

• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon ground mustard

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Turkey Ham

Stir in the diced potatoes and turkey ham, allowing them to cook for another 3 minutes. This helps develop a deeper, savory flavor in the soup.

Step 3: Make the Base

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and ham, stirring well to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground mustard, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Dairy

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the milk and heavy cream. Let it warm up, but do not let it boil to prevent curdling.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely into the soup. Stir in Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions for freshness. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Ingredient Background

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is the main source of richness in this soup. Its sharp, nutty flavor adds depth, while its creamy texture makes the soup smooth and velvety. Aged cheddar provides a stronger, more pronounced flavor, while mild cheddar melts effortlessly into the broth. Cheese also contributes a good amount of protein and calcium, making this dish more filling.

Turkey Ham

Turkey ham is a leaner alternative to traditional ham, offering the same smoky, savory taste without the excess fat. Made from seasoned, cured turkey meat, it blends perfectly with cheddar cheese, adding protein and heartiness to the soup. Turkey ham is also a great option for those who prefer a pork-free diet while still enjoying a classic ham flavor.

Potatoes

Potatoes are an essential ingredient in this soup, adding texture and body. As they cook, they slightly break down, helping to naturally thicken the soup while adding a creamy consistency. Potatoes are also a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.

Technique Tips for Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

Achieving a perfectly creamy and smooth cheddar turkey ham soup requires a few key techniques. The order of ingredient addition and how they are cooked significantly impact the final texture and flavor.

First, when adding flour to the sautéed vegetables and ham, make sure to stir it well and cook for at least one minute. This step is essential because it removes the raw flour taste and ensures that it blends smoothly into the broth. Skipping this step may lead to a grainy or uneven texture in the soup.

When adding the broth and dairy, be mindful of the temperature. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer before adding the milk and cream. If you add the dairy to a boiling liquid, it may curdle, creating an undesirable texture. Keeping the heat at a low-medium level ensures that everything stays smooth and creamy.

The final step in achieving a silky soup is how you add the cheese. Always remove the pot from direct heat before stirring in the cheddar cheese. If cheese is added to a soup that is too hot, it can separate and become clumpy. Instead, allow the residual heat to melt the cheese gradually, creating a perfectly smooth and creamy consistency.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While this soup is already comforting and delicious, a few simple presentation changes can enhance the dining experience.

For a restaurant-style touch, serve the soup in bread bowls. Hollow out a crusty sourdough roll and ladle the soup inside. The bread absorbs the rich flavors, making every bite more indulgent. This method is perfect for serving at dinner parties or holiday gatherings.

If you want to turn this soup into a fun appetizer, consider serving it in small cups with toasted cheese croutons on top. Dice slices of bread, brush them with butter, sprinkle with extra cheddar, and toast them in the oven until golden. Floating these cheesy croutons on the soup adds an extra crunchy texture.

Another idea is to turn this dish into a cheesy soup casserole. Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish, sprinkle additional shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top, then broil for 5 minutes until golden and crispy. This creates a crunchy, cheesy crust, making it feel like a baked dish rather than a soup.

Freezing and Storing Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

Proper storage ensures that your soup remains fresh and delicious for days or even weeks.

If you’re planning to store leftovers in the refrigerator, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated soup lasts up to 4 days and can be reheated over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave. Always stir well while reheating to ensure an even texture.

For freezing, this soup requires a little extra care. Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen, so it’s best to freeze the soup without the cheese and milk. Prepare the soup up until the broth and vegetable stage, then let it cool and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight, reheat on the stove, and add the cheese and milk at the end.

If freezing fully prepared soup, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. To restore its original creaminess, whisk in a little extra milk or cream after reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

For a lighter version of this soup, there are a few easy swaps that maintain flavor while cutting back on calories and fat.

Instead of heavy cream, try using evaporated milk or unsweetened almond milk. These alternatives provide a creamy consistency without the added fat, making the soup feel just as indulgent but lower in calories.

To reduce the cheese content, opt for a sharp cheddar instead of mild. Sharp cheddar has a stronger flavor, so you can use less while still achieving a cheesy taste. You can also mix in a small amount of nutritional yeast, which has a naturally cheesy, umami flavor but contains no dairy.

For a low-carb option, replace potatoes with cauliflower. Cauliflower has a similar creamy texture when cooked but contains fewer carbohydrates. Simply chop and steam it before adding it to the soup, then blend for a smooth, thick consistency.

Serving Suggestions for Events

This soup is versatile and can be served at various events throughout the year.

For a cozy winter dinner, serve it with homemade garlic bread or buttery biscuits. The rich, creamy broth pairs perfectly with warm, crusty bread, making it a great cold-weather meal.

If you’re serving this soup at a casual lunch gathering, pair it with a crisp green salad. The freshness of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cheese and ham, creating a well-rounded meal.

For holiday dinners, consider making a soup and sandwich pairing bar. Offer bowls of this creamy cheddar turkey ham soup alongside mini grilled cheese sandwiches or turkey club sliders. Guests can enjoy a warm, comforting meal while having fun customizing their plates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular ham instead of turkey ham?

Yes, regular ham works just as well, but turkey ham is a leaner alternative with the same savory flavor.

2. How do I prevent my cheese from clumping in the soup?

Always remove the soup from direct heat before adding cheese and stir slowly to let it melt evenly.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to use freshly shredded cheddar because pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

4. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

If the soup is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the soup and let it simmer for a few minutes.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook everything except the cheese and milk on low for 6 hours, then stir in the cheese and milk at the end.

6. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Evaporated milk, whole milk, or unsweetened almond milk work well as lighter options.

7. How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Skip the turkey ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra mushrooms or beans for a hearty texture.

8. Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes! Broccoli, spinach, or corn make great additions to this soup.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

10. What’s the best bread to serve with this soup?

Crusty sourdough, garlic bread, or cheese biscuits pair beautifully with this soup.

Conclusion

Cheddar turkey ham soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its cheesy broth, hearty turkey ham, and tender vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, holiday gathering, or casual lunch, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a warm, flavorful bowl of homemade goodness!

Cheddar Turkey Ham Soup

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• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 2 cups turkey ham, cubed
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Turkey Ham

Stir in the diced potatoes and turkey ham, allowing them to cook for another 3 minutes. This helps develop a deeper, savory flavor in the soup.

Step 3: Make the Base

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and ham, stirring well to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Add salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground mustard, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Dairy

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the milk and heavy cream. Let it warm up, but do not let it boil to prevent curdling.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely into the soup. Stir in Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped green onions for freshness. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g