As a food enthusiast, I often find myself dreaming of the perfect comfort dish for those crisp autumn evenings or even a cozy movie night at home. It was during one of these reflective moments that I stumbled upon a delightful pairing: creamy ham potato corn chowder and crispy homemade cornbread. Trust me, these two are the perfect duo. The chowder’s rich, velvety texture complements the cornbread's slight crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Now, let's dive into this creamy ham potato corn chowder that has been a staple in my kitchen, not only because of its taste but also due to its versatility. It’s the kind of dish that warms your soul and leaves you feeling content.
Creamy ham potato corn chowder is a hearty and satisfying soup that melds the sweet notes of corn with the savory taste of ham and the comforting texture of potatoes. The base is a rich creaminess created by combining milk and butter, while the medley of vegetables adds freshness and color. This dish is perfect for any day of the week, especially as a cozy option on chilly evenings.
To create this lovely chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:
5 medium red potatoes (about 1 ¾ lb) – Cut into ¾-inch cubes
2 carrots – Peeled and diced (roughly ¾ cup)
2 celery stalks – Chopped (around ¾ cup)
1 medium yellow onion – Finely diced (about 1 ½ cups)
2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
2 cups cooked ham – Cut into small cubes (leftover ham roast or ham steak works great)
6 slices bacon – Crisped and crumbled
5 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter – Divided
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
½ cup sour cream or heavy cream
2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth
1 bay leaf
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds a lovely depth)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional for added savory flavor)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
Chopped green onions or chives – for garnish
Before diving into the step-by-step directions, I assure you that this recipe is straightforward and will have you serving up bowls of comfort in no time. Just grab your favorite pot and let’s get cooking!
First things first, gather all your ingredients. Chop the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. This is easier if you do it ahead of time. It saves you a mad scramble for ingredients later, trust me.
In a large pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they become fragrant. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them to soften but not brown. The moment you catch a whiff of that delightful aroma, it will be hard to resist!
Once the vegetables are nicely softened, sprinkle the flour over them and stir it in. Keep this mixture cooking for another minute. This step creates a roux that will help thicken your chowder later on.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and then the milk. Stir well to combine. You’ll notice the mixture thickens a little with each pass of your whisk. This is where the magic happens.
Next, toss in your cubed ham, corn kernels, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Give everything a good stir. This mix needs to simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing all those delightful flavors to meld together.
Now it’s time to introduce the potato cubes into the pot. Allow them to cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, until they’re tender. Near the end, stir in the sour cream (or heavy cream if you’re feeling indulgent) and the remaining butter. This adds a silky finish to your chowder.
Taste your chowder and season with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—this is where you can tailor the saltiness and flavor to your liking. Remove the bay leaf and ladle this beautiful chowder into bowls.
Finish off with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or chives for a fresh touch. Grab your favorite cornbread on the side, and voila! Dinner is served.
Here are five helpful tips to enhance your chowder experience:
Use Leftover Ham: This chowder is perfect for using up leftover holiday ham. The flavor is often even better with this method.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, add more flour to your roux or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or peas based on your preferences.
Cooking Method: For an even richer flavor, consider slow-cooking the chowder—just use a slow cooker after sautéing the vegetables.
Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving for an additional flavor burst.
This chowder isn’t just a hit when fresh; it stores well too! Here’s how to keep it at its best:
Refrigeration: Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you've made a huge batch, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags. Just remember to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheat Carefully: When reheating, do it slowly over low heat while stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t separate.
This chowder packs a punch in terms of heartiness and flavor. Here’s a breakdown per serving (based on six servings):
Calories: 350
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 2g
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Sodium: 670mg
Want to elevate your chowder experience? Consider these serving suggestions:
Crispy Cornbread: Buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the chowder, offering a delightful crunch.
Garden Salad: A simple green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping; the bread enhances the chowder experience tenfold.
Cheese Crackers: A side of sharp cheese crackers provides a different texture and brings out the flavors of the chowder.
Classic Pickles: Include a small side of pickles for a tangy contrast that brightens up each bite.
If you're looking to tweak the recipe based on what you have handy or dietary preferences, consider these substitutes:
Turkey or Chicken: Instead of ham, use leftover turkey or chicken. This works if you're looking for a leaner option.
Vegetable Broth: Swap chicken broth for a vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
Potato Variants: Try sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes for a unique twist and added sweetness.
Non-dairy Milk: Use almond, soy, or oat milk if you're avoiding dairy; it still creates a creamy texture.
Dairy-Free Cream: Coconut cream can replace sour cream or heavy cream, adding a different flavor profile.
Creamy ham potato corn chowder is one of those recipes that brings warmth and joy. It's perfect whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just indulging in a cozy meal after a long day. With its delightful flavors and hearty ingredients, I can’t help but find it rewarding to share this dish with others.
If you haven't tried making this chowder yet, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a pot of creamy happiness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and so will anyone lucky enough to share a bowl with you!
As a food enthusiast, I often find myself dreaming of the perfect comfort dish for those crisp autumn evenings or even a cozy movie night at home. It was during one of these reflective moments that I stumbled upon a delightful pairing: creamy ham potato corn chowder and crispy homemade cornbread. Trust me, these two are the perfect duo. The chowder’s rich, velvety texture complements the cornbread's slight crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I'm Rosa Crumley, a registered dietitian and food enthusiast from Pittsburgh, PA. With a love for chef-inspired recipes and a passion for creating delicious, balanced meals, I aim to bring gourmet flavors into your home kitchen. Through my blog, I share simple, flavorful dishes that anyone can cook!