Ham and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 tbsp

olive oil (divided)

1 cup

diced cooked ham

1 tbsp

butter

yellow onion (diced)

to 4 cups peeled and cubed sweet potatoes (about 1/2-inch cubes)

carrots (cut into rounds)

celery stalks (sliced)

garlic cloves (minced)

1 tsp

dried basil

1 tsp

dried parsley

1/2 tsp

dried thyme

1/2 tsp

salt (or to taste)

1/2 tsp

fresh ground pepper (or to taste)

to 6 cups low sodium chicken broth

4 tbsp

butter

4 tbsp

all-purpose flour

2 cups

milk

3/4 cup

shredded cheddar cheese

chopped fresh parsley (for garnish (optional))