Hearty and Comforting: Ham and Potato Corn Chowder Recipe

There’s nothing better than a bowl of hearty and comforting ham and potato corn chowder on a chilly evening. This creamy and savory soup is packed with tender potatoes, smoky ham, sweet corn, and flavorful aromatics, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Whether you’re using up leftover ham or looking for a simple, satisfying meal, this chowder is easy to prepare with minimal effort. With just one pot and a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

✔️ Rich and Creamy – The perfect balance of smooth, velvety broth and hearty ingredients.
✔️ One-Pot Meal – Fewer dishes, more flavor!
✔️ Great for Leftovers – Flavors deepen and get even better the next day.
✔️ Customizable – Swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
✔️ Perfect for Cold Weather – A warm and filling meal to keep you cozy.

Ingredients for Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chowder:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Oil or butter	3 tablespoons
Onion, diced	1 medium
Carrots, diced	2
Celery stalks, diced	2
Garlic cloves, chopped	2
Fresh thyme, chopped	1 teaspoon
Flour (or rice flour for gluten-free)	¼ cup
Ham broth or chicken broth	2 cups
Milk or heavy cream	2 cups
Potatoes, diced	1 ½ pounds
Ham, diced	8 ounces
Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)	1 cup
Salt and pepper	To taste

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or thyme
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Parmesan, or gouda)
• Crumbled bacon
• Green onions

How to Make Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the onion, carrots, and celery.
• Chop the garlic and thyme.
• Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot, heat the oil or butter over medium heat.
• Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the garlic and thyme and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Base

• Sprinkle the flour (or rice flour) over the vegetables and stir well.
• Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Broth and Milk

• Slowly pour in the ham broth or chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
• Add the milk or heavy cream, stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Ham

• Stir in the diced potatoes and ham.
• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Incorporate the Corn

• Stir in the corn and let the chowder simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7: Season and Serve

• Taste the chowder and season with salt and pepper as needed.
• If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to adjust the consistency.
• Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or crumbled bacon.

Tips for the Best Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

✔️ Use Leftover Ham – Perfect for using up holiday ham.
✔️ Cut Evenly – Dice vegetables and potatoes into similar sizes for even cooking.
✔️ Stir Regularly – This prevents the milk from burning at the bottom of the pot.
✔️ Thicken it Up – Mash some potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).
✔️ Boost the Flavor – A dash of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce adds extra depth.

Substitutions and Variations

🔹 Dairy-Free Option – Replace milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
🔹 Meat Alternatives – Use bacon, turkey, or sausage instead of ham.
🔹 Extra Veggies – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for more nutrients.
🔹 Low-Carb Version – Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
🔹 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Freezer:

• Let the chowder cool completely.
• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~350
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	14g
Fiber	4g

(Values are approximate and depend on ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use fresh corn instead of canned or frozen?

Yes! Fresh corn adds a natural sweetness and crunch. Just cut the kernels off the cob and add them to the chowder as directed.

2. How can I make this chowder thicker?

Mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken it.

3. Can I make this chowder in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Add all ingredients except the milk and flour to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the milk and flour at the end.

4. What type of potatoes should I use?

Russet potatoes create a creamier texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well. Red potatoes work too but stay firmer.

5. How do I lighten up this recipe?

Use low-fat milk, reduce the butter, and add extra vegetables to make a lighter version.

6. What pairs well with this chowder?

This chowder goes great with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad.

Final Thoughts: A Warm and Satisfying Bowl of Comfort

This hearty and comforting ham and potato corn chowder is a must-try recipe for cozy, homemade comfort food. It’s creamy, delicious, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prep, this chowder is sure to become a go-to dish in your home.

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