A rustic bowl of creamy dill pickle ham soup, showing a pale green consistency with visible chunks of ham and potatoes. It's garnished with a swirl of cream and fresh dill sprigs, presented on a dark wooden surface, evoking a sense of cozy comfort.

Creamy Dill Pickle Ham Soup

American cuisine

Creamy Dill Pickle Ham Soup

Embark on a culinary adventure with this Creamy Dill Pickle Ham Soup, a surprisingly delightful and comforting dish that elegantly marries the salty, smoky richness of ham with the bright, tangy zest of dill pickles. This hearty bacon and ham recipe transforms humble ingredients into a warm, inviting meal, perfect for those brisk evenings or when you're simply craving something truly unique. Historically, soups have been a comforting staple, and this recipe offers a contemporary twist that’s both familiar and adventurous. The velvety smooth base, enriched with tender chunks of potato and a generous swirl of cream, expertly mellows the dill pickle’s sharp tang, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Generous pieces of diced ham, a cornerstone of many classic comfort foods, provide satisfying texture and a robust, savory depth that elevates this soup from simple sustenance to a memorable dining experience. This soup isn't just a recipe; it's an invitation to savor unexpected combinations and perhaps discover a new family favorite. It's an excellent way to utilize leftover ham, offering a creative and delicious departure from more traditional everyday soups. Prepare for a cozy texture and a bold, yet perfectly balanced, taste profile that will surely earn its place in your recipe rotation. This ham soup showcases how versatile ham can be beyond the holiday table, making it a star in your bacon and ham dishes collection.

Preparation time
20 min
Cooking time
30 min
Total time
50 min
Servings
6

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced celery, sautéing until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. 2Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  3. 3Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. 4Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Assembly & Finishing

  1. 1Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the diced ham, finely diced dill pickles, and dill pickle juice. Bring back to a gentle simmer and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. 2Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and chopped fresh dill. Heat through gently, but do not boil after added cream to prevent curdling.
  3. 3Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust pickle juice if a stronger tangy flavor is desired.
  4. 4Ladle the creamy dill pickle ham soup into bowls. Garnish with additional fresh dill and a few extra diced pickles or a swirl of cream, if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition Information

Calories
451 kcal
Protein
22 g
Fat
30 g
Carbs
26 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories451 kcal
Protein22 g
Fat30 g
Carbs26 g

Tips

  • Avoid boiling the soup after adding the heavy cream to prevent it from curdling. Gentle simmering is key.
  • Finely dicing the dill pickles ensures their flavor is evenly distributed throughout the soup, preventing any overwhelming bites.
  • Serve this hearty ham soup with crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal, perfect for soaking up every last drop.

By Chef Michael Ilin