This creamy low‑carb ham soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Tender ham and a mix of fresh vegetables simmer in a rich, creamy broth to create a flavorful, satisfying soup that works year‑round.
I make soup all year long, and this creamy low‑carb ham soup is always a family favorite. You can prepare it with diced leftover ham and store‑bought chicken broth, or cook a ham bone to extract extra flavor and use that homemade ham broth along with any meat that comes off the bone. Both approaches yield a deeply flavorful and comforting soup.
Let’s talk about the fresh vegetables that go into this soup!
This recipe uses a colorful mix of vegetables: diced celery, green and red bell peppers, and onion. I love the visual contrast of red and green peppers, but any pepper colors work fine. Cauliflower replaces potatoes to keep the soup low in carbs; when blended with an immersion blender it develops a texture similar to cooked potatoes. You can use fresh or frozen cauliflower, and you can add other low‑carb vegetables if you like—broccoli, green beans, or spinach are all good choices. If you prefer a spicier soup, add diced jalapeños to taste.
What is the best ham to use for this creamy low‑carb ham soup?
This soup is perfect for using up leftover ham. I prefer diced ham from a cooked boneless or bone‑in ham rather than deli ham for better texture. If you have a bone‑in ham, simmer the bone to make ham broth and pick off any extra meat to add to the soup—this adds outstanding flavor. You can also combine ham broth and chicken broth if you like. Check nutrition labels if you track carbs, since carb content varies by ham brand and added ingredients.
How can I serve this creamy low‑carb ham soup?
This is a hearty, complete soup that can be served on its own for a satisfying meal. For a nice finish and presentation, top bowls with shredded cheddar cheese or sliced green onions. Pair the soup with a keto salad for a balanced meal—Caesar is a classic choice. You can also serve it with keto bread, biscuits, English muffins, or crackers, or alongside a keto burger, sandwich, or lettuce wrap. Finish the meal with a favorite keto dessert if desired.
Need more keto comfort soups?
Try other low‑carb favorites to rotate with this soup for comforting, keto‑friendly dinners.
Helpful Hints:
* When blending, you can fully purée the soup for a smooth texture or leave some larger pieces for a chunkier finish.
* Omit the xanthan gum if you prefer; the soup will be slightly thinner without it.
Main Kitchen Equipment and Utensils:
- Large stockpot
- Measuring spoons
- Immersion blender
Splash of Encouragement:
O LORD, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all. The earth is full of Your possessions. — Psalm 104:24
Creamy Low Carb Ham Soup
12 Servings
25 minutes
30 minutes
55 minutes
This creamy low‑carb ham soup blends fresh vegetables with ham in a rich, creamy broth for a warming, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ⅓ cup diced celery
- ⅓ cup diced green pepper
- ⅓ cup diced red pepper
- ¼ cup diced onion
- 24 ounces fresh cauliflower, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth or ham broth
- ⅓ cup fresh chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional)
- 4 cups diced ham
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese or sliced green onions for topping
Instructions
- In a large stockpot over medium heat, add butter and olive oil.
- When the butter melts, add celery, peppers, and onion. Sauté about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the chopped cauliflower, broth, parsley, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium‑high and simmer until the cauliflower is fork‑tender, about 15–25 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your preferred consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
- Sprinkle the xanthan gum over the soup and whisk thoroughly to remove lumps, if using.
- Stir in the diced ham and heavy whipping cream. Simmer until heated through.
- Serve topped with shredded cheddar or sliced green onions if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 12
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 200
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 62mg
Sodium: 1140mg
Carbohydrates: 5.5g
Net Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 13g
Nutrition information is an estimate provided for convenience and may vary based on ingredients and brands used. Net carbs are calculated as total carbs minus fiber.