Cozy Ham and Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Chilly Days

Comfort swirls through every spoonful of this hearty ham and potato corn chowder that promises warmth and satisfaction.

Cold days demand something truly special from our kitchen repertoire.

Memories of grandmother’s cooking drift through my mind whenever I prepare this creamy classic.

Farm-fresh ingredients blend seamlessly in this soul-satisfying recipe that feels like a culinary hug.

Kernels of sweet corn dance alongside tender potato chunks, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.

Smoky ham pieces add depth and richness to each delightful bite.

I guarantee you’ll want seconds of this irresistible chowder that brings pure comfort to the table.

How To Make Ham And Potato Corn Chowder

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium flame. Toss chopped onions into the pot and cook until they turn soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and let it dance around for a minute, releasing its fragrant aroma.

Step 2: Launch the Potato Adventure

• Fresh thyme
• Cracked black pepper
• Bay leaf

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then dial down the heat. Let the potatoes simmer and become tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Introduce Corn and Ham

Fold in sweet corn kernels and chunky ham pieces. Allow everything to mingle and warm through for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors get acquainted.

Step 4: Create Creamy Magic

In a separate bowl, whisk flour into heavy cream until smooth and free of lumps. Slowly cascade this silky mixture into the chowder, stirring constantly. Let it bubble gently for 5-7 minutes, watching as the soup transforms into a luxurious, thick delight.

Step 5: Final Flourish

• Chopped chives
• Crispy bacon bits
• Shredded cheese

Serve immediately and watch smiles bloom around the table.

Pro Tips For Ham And Potato Corn Chowder

• Boost Flavor Depth: Add a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to enhance the ham and potato chowder's complexity without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
• Veggie Swap Magic: Replace ham with diced zucchini or plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version that maintains the soup's hearty texture and rich taste.
• Cream Alternative Hack: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option that adds subtle sweetness.
• Texture Perfection Trick: Cut potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent, creamy consistency throughout the chowder.
• Leftover Love Strategy: Store chowder in an airtight container and gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its original creamy texture.

How To Store Ham And Potato Corn Chowder

• Refrigerate leftover chowder in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the soup completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency and prevent scorching.
• Gently warm the chowder over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its smooth texture.
• Avoid freezing this chowder, as the cream and potatoes may separate and become grainy when thawed.
• If you must freeze, do so without the cream and add it fresh when reheating.
• Keep the chowder covered in the refrigerator to preserve its flavors and prevent absorbing other food odors.

What Goes With Ham And Potato Corn Chowder

• Pair with Crusty Bread: Grab a warm, crusty sourdough or rustic French bread to soak up the creamy chowder. Its crispy texture and tangy flavor perfectly complement the rich, hearty soup.
• Select a Crisp White Wine: Reach for a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These light, refreshing wines cut through the chowder's creaminess and enhance the ham's smoky notes.
• Serve with Bright Side Salad: Whip up a quick green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic elements balance the chowder's richness and add a vibrant touch to the meal.
• Match with Craft Beer: Choose a smooth wheat beer or a light amber ale. These brews offer a subtle maltiness that harmonizes with the chowder's creamy base and salty ham flavor.

Fun Swaps For Ham And Potato Corn Chowder

• Spicy Southwest Corn Chowder: Replace ham with crispy chorizo and add diced green chiles for a zesty kick. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a dash of smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Green Chowder: Swap ham for roasted green zucchini and add extra vegetable broth. Incorporate spinach and use plant-based cream for a lighter, nutrient-packed version.
• Seafood Coastal Chowder: Substitute ham with fresh shrimp or crab meat. Enhance the broth with a splash of white wine and fresh dill. Finish with a squeeze of lemon for bright, oceanic notes.
• Bacon and Herb Chowder: Replace ham with crispy bacon pieces and add fresh rosemary alongside thyme. Mix in some chopped leeks for additional depth and complexity in the base.

Ham And Potato Corn Chowder FAQ Guide

• Why use ham in this chowder?

Ham adds a delicious smoky flavor and extra protein to the chowder, making it more hearty and satisfying. The saltiness of the ham complements the creamy potatoes and sweet corn perfectly.

• Can I make this chowder vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ham with plant-based alternatives like smoked tofu, vegetarian ham substitute, or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to maintain a similar depth of flavor.

• How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Whisk the flour into the cream thoroughly before adding it to the hot soup, and add the cream mixture slowly while stirring constantly. Keep the heat low to medium to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.

• Is this chowder good for meal prep?

Yes! This chowder stores well in the refrigerator for 35 days. The flavors actually develop and become more robust after a day, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week.

Why Ham And Potato Corn Chowder Feels So Warm

• Quick Comfort Meal: This ham and potato corn chowder delivers warm, hearty goodness in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and delicious.
• Versatile Kitchen Magic: Easily adaptable recipe allows swapping ham for bacon or adding extra vegetables, making it a flexible dish that suits different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture, sweet corn kernels, and savory ham chunks that create a balanced, flavorful one-pot meal everyone can enjoy together.
• Minimal Cleanup Champion: Using just one pot means less dishwashing and more time relaxing after a comforting meal, making this chowder a stress-free cooking experience for home cooks.

What’s In Ham And Potato Corn Chowder

Main Ingredients:

Base Vegetables: – Onion, Garlic: Aromatics that build deep flavor foundation for the chowder, choose fresh and firm for best taste.

• Potatoes: Hearty vegetable that provides thick texture and substance, select starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for creamy consistency.

Protein and Corn: – Ham, Corn: Adds protein and sweet kernels for balanced flavor, use pre-cooked ham or leftover holiday ham for convenience.

Liquid and Cream Components:

Broth and Cream: – Chicken Broth, Heavy Cream: Creates rich liquid base and smooth texture, use low-sodium broth for better seasoning control.

Thickening Agent: – Flour: Helps create smooth, velvety consistency without lumps, all-purpose flour works perfectly.

Herbs and Seasonings:

Flavor Enhancers: – Thyme, Black Pepper, Bay Leaf, Salt: Provides depth and classic chowder seasoning, fresh thyme offers more intense herb flavor.

Cooking Oils: – Olive Oil: Helps sauté vegetables and prevent sticking, use extra virgin for better taste.

Ham And Potato Corn Chowder Recipe

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4.5 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty ham and potato corn chowder brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen to your table. Creamy goodness packed with smoky ham and sweet corn promises a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth

Vegetables and Corn:

• 2 cups frozen corn (or fresh corn kernels)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Dairy:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt, to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped parsley
• Crumbled bacon

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Instructions

1. Prepare the flavor base by gently sautéing diced onions in olive oil over medium heat until they turn translucent and soft, releasing their sweet aroma. Introduce minced garlic and quickly toast for a brief moment to enhance its pungent notes.
2. Create the liquid foundation by pouring chicken broth into the pot, then carefully add cubed potatoes along with fragrant thyme, freshly ground black pepper, and a single bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a robust boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, allowing the potatoes to tenderize and absorb the surrounding flavors for 10-12 minutes.
3. Enrich the chowder by incorporating sweet corn kernels and diced ham, stirring to distribute the ingredients evenly. Allow the mixture to gently bubble and warm through, melding the flavors for approximately 4-5 minutes.
4. Transform the liquid into a luxurious, velvety consistency by whisking flour into heavy cream until completely smooth. Gradually introduce this creamy mixture into the chowder, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
5. Refine the final dish by removing the bay leaf and carefully adjusting the seasoning. Taste and add salt if needed to balance the flavors. Serve hot, ladled into warm bowls, and optionally garnish with fresh herbs or crispy bacon bits for added texture and visual appeal.

Notes

• Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamier, smoother texture that holds up better during simmering.
• Swap ham with rotisserie chicken or smoked turkey for a different protein variation that keeps the dish exciting.
• Use frozen corn during off-season to maintain consistent flavor and sweetness without sacrificing quality.
• Reduce heavy cream calories by substituting half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version that still delivers rich comfort.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg