Ham and Potato Chowder
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Ham and Potato Chowder – a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Rich flavors that blend perfectly together.
- Quick and simple prep time for a satisfying meal.
- Ideal for meal prep and can be enjoyed as leftovers for days.
Ingredient Notes:
- Strips of bacon add a smoky flavor.
- Yellow onion, celery, and carrots create a flavorful base.
- Heavy whipping cream adds richness.
- Fresh or frozen corn provides sweetness.
- Diced ham and potatoes make this chowder hearty.
- Dried thyme and bay leaf add depth to the dish.
- Kosher salt and black pepper for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy.
- Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic, cooking until tender.
- Stir in flour, then gradually add chicken broth and cream.
- Add corn, ham, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes.
- Use smoked ham for an extra layer of flavor.
- Swap out the corn for peas or other vegetables.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality chicken broth for a richer taste.
- Let the chowder sit for a while before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this chowder with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or a light beer complements the flavors well.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use leftover ham for this recipe? Yes, leftover ham works great in this chowder.
- Can I freeze this chowder? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? Yes, but the chowder won’t be as rich.
- How can I make this chowder vegetarian? Swap the ham for additional veggies or plant-based protein.
Conclusion:
Satisfy your cravings with a bowl of Ham and Potato Chowder, a comforting and delicious dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your thoughts with us!
PrintHam and Potato Chowder
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Ham and Potato Chowder is a comforting and satisfying soup perfect for a cozy night in. Loaded with chunks of ham, potatoes, and veggies in a creamy broth, it’s a delicious meal-in-a-bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 small carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, celery, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for a few minutes.
- Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and cream. Add corn, ham, potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot, garnished with the cooked bacon.
Notes
- You can add extra veggies like peas or bell peppers for more flavor and color.
- To make it healthier, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg