4cupsliced leeks (white and light green parts)rinsed very well
2tspminced garlic
0.5cupdiced celery
0.5cupdiced carrots
4cuppeeled diced russet potatoesYukon Gold also works
2cupchopped cooked hamleftover ham is great
5cuplow-sodium chicken broth
0.75tspdried thyme leaves
0.5tspground black pepper
1tspkosher saltadd more to taste
0.75cupheavy creamor half-and-half
0.25cupchopped fresh parsley
1tbspfresh lemon juicebrightens the finish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Prep the vegetables: slice leeks, dice potatoes, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic.
Warm olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Cook leeks with a pinch of salt until soft and sweet, about 6–8 minutes, stirring often.
Stir in celery and carrots; cook 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add potatoes, ham, thyme, and black pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables and ham in the aromatics.
Pour in broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Simmer until potatoes are tender, 15–20 minutes. Skim any foam if needed.
Lightly mash some potatoes in the pot or blend briefly for a creamier texture.
Stir in cream and parsley; warm without boiling. Season with salt and lemon juice to taste and serve hot.
Notes
Swap in half-and-half for a lighter finish, or stir in a spoonful of Dijon or grated cheddar for extra richness. Leftovers keep 3–4 days in the fridge; reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Ham Potato Leek Soup flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.