If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than this delightful Ham Chowder Recipe. Bursting with savory ham, crispy bacon, creamy cheddar, and tender potatoes, it’s an all-in-one bowl of satisfaction that’s perfect for a family meal or feeding a crowd. This chowder’s beautiful balance of textures and flavors makes it an absolute favorite that you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is the first step to making a spectacular Ham Chowder Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role—bacon adds smoky depth, vegetables bring sweetness and color, while cheese and potatoes deliver that irresistible creamy richness and texture.
- 10 bacon strips, diced: Crisp bacon provides a smoky crunch and a flavorful base to the chowder.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Onions lend sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 1 cup diced carrots: Adds a gentle earthy sweetness plus vibrant color.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to create the creamy chowder consistency.
- 3 cups whole milk: Whole milk ensures the chowder turns out luxuriously creamy.
- 1-1/2 cups water: Balances the liquid and helps cook the potatoes just right.
- 2-1/2 cups cubed potatoes: Potatoes add hearty texture and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained: Corn bursts with natural sweetness, brightening every spoonful.
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules: Enhances the broth with savory, comforting notes.
- Pepper to taste: Provides mild heat and balances flavors beautifully.
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into rich, gooey goodness that binds the chowder.
- 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham: The star ingredient, offering juicy, meaty bites throughout.
- Minced fresh parsley, optional: A fresh, vibrant garnish to brighten the final dish.
How to Make Ham Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Begin by cooking the diced bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until it reaches a perfect crispness. This step is essential for developing that smoky flavor base. Once crisp, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels so it stays nice and crunchy for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the delicious bacon drippings left behind, toss in the chopped onion and diced carrots. Cook them gently until they become tender and fragrant, which will build a sweet, aromatic layer that complements the ham perfectly.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Base
Sprinkle the flour into the bacon drippings and stir until it completely blends in. Gradually pour in the whole milk and water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil and cook for two minutes, stirring all the while, until it thickens into that glorious chowder consistency.
Step 4: Add Potatoes, Corn, and Seasoning
Next, stir in the cubed potatoes, drained corn, chicken bouillon granules, and pepper. Lower the heat and let everything simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender, soaking up those bold, savory flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese, Ham, and Bacon
Turn up the heat slightly and add the shredded cheddar cheese and cubed ham to the pot. Stir gently and cook until the cheese has melted into the chowder, creating that luscious, creamy texture. Finally, return the crisp bacon bits to the pot, stirring them in for a satisfying crunch in every bite. For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle minced parsley on top before serving.
How to Serve Ham Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes bring your Ham Chowder Recipe to life visually and flavor-wise. A sprinkle of minced fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note, while a handful of extra crispy bacon provides texture contrast. Some like to add a dash of cracked black pepper or a small swirl of cream for a luxurious finish.
Side Dishes
This chowder shines wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls makes the meal even more satisfying. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness, or consider serving it with garlic breadsticks for a comforting feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Ham Chowder Recipe in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls—edible containers that soak up all the chowder’s goodness. For gatherings, consider individual ramekins with a sprinkle of extra cheese broiled on top for a bubbly crust. Presentation brings joy and can turn this cozy soup into an elegant meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Ham Chowder Recipe leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the chowder for longer storage by placing it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to three months. Keep in mind that potatoes can slightly change texture after freezing, but the flavor stays wonderful.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen or refrigerated chowder, thaw if frozen, then gently reheat over low to medium heat on the stove. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and to bring back that creamy consistency. You might want to add a splash of milk if the chowder has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use leftover ham for this chowder?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for this Ham Chowder Recipe and helps reduce waste while adding fantastic flavor. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and cut into bite-sized cubes.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes, you can use unsweetened almond milk or another plant-based milk alternative, and substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free version. The texture and taste will change slightly but it will still be delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in diced celery, peas, or even some bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time so all vegetables become tender.
How thick should the chowder be?
The perfect Ham Chowder Recipe has a rich, thick consistency that coats the back of a spoon without being too heavy. If it’s too thick after chilling, stir in a bit of milk or water while reheating.
What’s the best type of potato to use?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work wonderfully here because they hold their shape well without turning mushy, adding lovely texture to the chowder.
Final Thoughts
This Ham Chowder Recipe is truly a wonderful dish that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to any mealtime. It’s easy to make, packed with layers of flavor, and perfect for sharing with those you love. Next time you want something special that feels like a little celebration in a bowl, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Ham Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings (2-1/2 quarts)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Ham Chowder recipe combines crispy bacon, tender ham, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheddar cheese for a comforting and flavorful soup. Perfect for a satisfying family meal, this chowder balances the smokiness of bacon with the richness of cheese and the sweetness of corn in a thick, creamy broth.
Ingredients
Meats
- 10 bacon strips, diced
- 2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 2–1/2 cups cubed potatoes
- 1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- Minced fresh parsley, optional
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1–1/2 cups water
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Other
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the diced bacon strips until they are crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain excess fat.
- Sauté the vegetables: Using the bacon drippings left in the pot, sauté the chopped onion and diced carrots until they become tender and aromatic.
- Create roux and add liquids: Stir the all-purpose flour into the bacon drippings and vegetables until well blended. Gradually add the whole milk and water while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for about two minutes until the soup thickens.
- Add potatoes, corn, and seasoning: Mix in the cubed potatoes, drained corn, chicken bouillon granules, and pepper to taste. Lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with cheese, ham, and bacon: Add shredded cheddar cheese and cubed ham to the chowder. Heat gently until the cheese has melted completely. Stir in the reserved crispy bacon bits, and garnish with minced fresh parsley and additional cooked bacon if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker chowder, use heavy cream instead of whole milk.
- Feel free to substitute chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon for a milder flavor.
- Use smoked ham for an enhanced smoky depth.
- To reduce sodium, choose low-sodium bouillon or omit it and use seasoned broth.
- This chowder can be prepared a day ahead; flavors improve after resting refrigerated overnight.
