Keto ham soup is one of those foods I crave after a long, chilly workday. You come home, shoes kicked off, and what you really want? Something warm and filling. If you’re tired of the same-old chicken soups or missing those classic comfort foods, this is what you need in your life. And get this— it’s totally low-carb, keto-friendly, and not at all a hassle to throw together. I know there’s tons of other cozy ideas like these keto soup recipes or tasty keto chicken tortilla soup out there, but, trust me, this is the hammy twist you didn’t know you were missing.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Keto Ham and Vegetable Soup
First things first: You want the good stuff for your keto ham soup. Here’s the rundown (and seriously, don’t skip the basics—they’re why this always turns out right). Start with diced ham—leftover ham is king but deli slices work in a pinch. Grab some cauliflower because potatoes are out, obviously, and I swear cauliflower soaks up flavor like a sponge at a barbecue. Next, the MVPs: celery, onion, and a handful of chopped fresh spinach or kale (I do both when I’m feeling fancy). Garlic goes in too, because who says no to garlic?
I know cream vs. half-and-half is a whole internet debate, but my vote is for heavy cream. Rounds out the soup, makes it rich without feeling heavy. And if you want that “cheesy soup” flavor, a handful of shredded cheddar can take this straight to five-star restaurant territory. Salt, pepper, and maybe some thyme. That’s it. No need for weird spices or trickery.
What’s funny—my great aunt has made versions of this forever, and she swore by adding green beans, so go wild if that’s your jam. The best part is, you can swap in any low-carb veggie. No one’s watching.
Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
Honestly, I used to scroll right past the health stuff, but this one’s too good to skip. This keto ham soup isn’t just comforting—it packs a surprising nutritional punch. You’re getting protein from the ham (this helps keep you full, and maybe avoids that midnight snack craving). The veggies sneak in vitamins and minerals that you actually need on keto—potassium, vitamin C, and all the leafy green goodness from the spinach or kale. Cauliflower especially is a workhorse: it’s low in carbs, high in fiber, and weirdly helps thicken up the soup, so it feels like a cheat meal.
Oh, and because you’re using heavy cream, it’s high in healthy fats. This helps put you in or keep you in ketosis—which is what you want. My old keto group chats always went wild for anything that felt “creamy” without loading on the carbs, so here you go.
Let’s be real, though—make sure you taste as you cook and watch the salt if your ham is already really salty. (One time, I made this with a smoked ham hock. Rookie mistake, so salty!) But otherwise, it’s filling, balanced, and you won’t feel weighed down like with classic potato-laden soups.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Settle in (and maybe toss on your favorite playlist) because good soup doesn’t rush itself. First, heat your favorite soup pot and add a tiny splash of oil. Toss in your onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the edges get a bit golden—this is literally the part that smells like “home.” Toss in the ham and let the flavors mingle. Now add the cauliflower florets. Give ’em a stir.
Pour in your broth, usually chicken for classic vibes. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy (which totally happened to me when I got distracted by a new recipe on TV). Now, drop in the greens and simmer another few minutes, just ’til they wilt.
Here’s where it gets decadent: Stir in the heavy cream, and if you’re going “cheesy,” handful of cheddar now. (I say go for it.) Taste, salt, pepper, and a smidge of thyme or your fave herbs.
I’ll legit just dive in with a spoon at this point. But you can blend a cup or two of soup then return it to the pot for extra creaminess. Totally optional, but it does make it almost velvety. My neighbor once called it “restaurant thick.” Not kidding.
“I was honestly skeptical, but after making this keto ham soup, my carb-loving husband didn’t even notice there weren’t potatoes. We’ve made it three times since!” – Carla W.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Let’s talk how you actually eat this thing—because if you’re like me, you want simple and hearty.
- Pair a bowl with crispy low carb hash browns if you’re craving something crunchy and savory on the side.
- Serve alongside a green salad or toss in extra spinach, especially for those “I probably should eat more greens” days.
- If you’re feeling extra, some folks dip cheesy spaghetti squash keto casserole right into the soup (look, I won’t judge).
- Sprinkle some extra sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on top for good measure.
And for real, it’s just as tasty the next day—maybe even better. Soup magic, right?
Tips for Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftovers are honestly where soup shines. Store your leftover keto ham soup in an airtight container in the fridge—usually up to four days is golden. If you’re worried about batch cooking, you can freeze this in individual portions easily. Pro tip: leave out the cream before freezing and add it in when you reheat, just to keep it smooth and not grainy.
Reheat on the stove or in short bursts in the microwave (stirring so it doesn’t get weirdly hot in one spot and frozen in another). Add a splash of broth or cream if it gets too thick—it happens. Plus, it gives you a chance to adjust seasoning if you want to get extra fancy.
Sometimes I throw leftovers into a thermos for work lunch. Always feel smug about it, not gonna lie.
Common Questions
Is this soup really filling enough for dinner?
Oh, absolutely. Ham plus all those fiber-packed veggies = you’re not hungry for hours.
Can I substitute other veggies besides cauliflower?
Totally! Broccoli, zucchini, or green beans all work. Use what you love (or what’s threatening to go limp in your fridge).
Can I make this dairy free?
You can—try coconut cream (unsweetened), but the flavor changes a bit. Still tasty, though.
What’s the best ham to use?
Leftover baked ham is the dream. But deli ham, chopped thick, or even ham steak works too. Just watch the salt.
How can I make the soup chunkier or creamier?
Blend a cup or two of the finished soup and stir it back in. Creamy, dreamy, perfect.
You Need This Cozy Bowl of Keto Ham Soup in Your Life
So, there you go, friends—keto ham soup isn’t just “diet food.” It’s real, stick-to-your-ribs, tastes-like-mom’s-kitchen comfort. Perfect for anyone on keto, low carb, or who just wants a healthier take on a winter classic. Grab inspiration from other versions like Creamy Keto Ham and Vegetable Soup – Splash of Keto or maybe try something similar from Keto Ham Soup with Broccoli & Cheese (Hearty & Delicious) – Kasey … for a cheesy twist. Grab your spoon and make it yours tonight. Seriously—you’re going to love it.
Keto Ham Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham (leftover or deli) Leftover ham is preferable.
- 2 cups cauliflower florets Cauliflower replaces potatoes in this keto version.
- 1 cup chopped celery Adds flavor and texture.
- 1 cup onion, diced Essential for flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale Use whichever is preferred or mix both.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced For added flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth For a classic flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Makes the soup rich and creamy.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese Optional, for cheesy flavor.
- to taste salt Adjust based on ham's saltiness.
- to taste black pepper Season to preference.
- 1 teaspoon thyme Optional, for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a soup pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil.
- Add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until golden.
- Add diced ham and let the flavors mingle.
- Stir in cauliflower florets.
Cooking
- Pour in chicken broth and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until cauliflower is tender.
- Add spinach or kale and simmer for a few more minutes until wilted.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme as needed.
- For extra creaminess, blend a cup or two of the soup then stir back into the pot.