Creating Ham, Potato, & Cheese Soup is a simple process. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Potatoes and Ham: Stir in the diced potatoes and ham, mixing well with the onions and garlic.
3. Pour in Chicken Broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Blend for Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
6. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
7. Thicken if Desired: If you want a thicker soup, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the soup. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
9. Serve Hot: Remove from heat and serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

These easy steps will guide you through creating this incredible soup effortlessly.