Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Introduction

Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder is a comforting, hearty soup that combines smoky ham, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and a rich, cheesy broth. This thick and satisfying chowder is perfect for chilly days, offering a warm and creamy texture with bursts of flavor in every bite. The blend of sharp cheddar, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables makes this dish a family favorite.

I first made this chowder on a cold evening when I was craving something comforting, and it quickly became a go-to meal. The combination of smoky ham and creamy cheese is so satisfying, and the potatoes and corn add just the right amount of heartiness. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with a delicious aroma, and my family can’t wait to dig in.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to serve guests, this chowder is sure to hit the spot. It’s a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, making it a favorite for everyone.

Perfect for:

• Cold winter nights
• Comfort food cravings
• Using up leftover ham
• Family dinners
• Soup lovers

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Here’s why Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder will become your go-to comfort soup:

• Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of milk, cheese, and broth creates a luxurious, velvety soup.
• Savory and Satisfying: Smoky ham adds depth of flavor, while potatoes and corn provide heartiness.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Great for Leftovers: This chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies, swap out cheeses, or make it thicker or thinner to your liking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 bowls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 18g, Carbs: 32g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder:

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ham: Use leftover holiday ham or deli ham for convenience. Smoked ham adds the best flavor.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best, as they provide creaminess and hold their shape well.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold, cheesy goodness. Feel free to mix in Gouda or Monterey Jack.
• Heavy Cream & Milk: This combination ensures the chowder is creamy without being overly thick.
• Corn: Adds a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the ham and cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chowder Base

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Make the Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps thicken the chowder later.
3. Add the Broth and Potatoes: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to dissolve the roux completely. Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 10-12 minutes).

Add the Ham and Dairy

4. Stir in the Ham and Corn: Add the diced ham and corn to the pot, stirring well. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Dairy: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and heavy cream. Do not boil after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
6. Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.

Final Touches

7. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the chowder and adjust the salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.
8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder is best enjoyed hot and pairs well with various sides:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette or dinner rolls for dipping.
• In a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the chowder inside for a fun presentation.
• With a Side Salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Topped with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more shredded cheese on top for extra indulgence.
• With Crackers: Oyster crackers or croutons add a nice crunch.

Additional Tips for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Make sure your chowder turns out perfect every time with these tips:

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Simmer just until fork-tender to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Keep the Heat Low When Adding Dairy: Avoid boiling after adding milk and cream to prevent curdling.
• Thicken if Needed: If the chowder is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in.
• Thin it Out if Needed: If the chowder is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Here are 10 variations you can try for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder:

• Bacon Ham Chowder: Add crispy bacon bits for extra smokiness.
• Spicy Jalapeño Chowder: Stir in diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Broccoli Ham Chowder: Add chopped broccoli florets for more greens.
• Ham and Mushroom Chowder: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for an earthy twist.
• Ham and White Bean Chowder: Add a can of drained white beans for extra protein.
• Smoked Gouda Ham Chowder: Swap the cheddar for smoked gouda for a deep, smoky flavor.
• Ham and Carrot Chowder: Stir in shredded carrots for natural sweetness.
• Ham and Cauliflower Chowder: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb version.
• Southwestern Ham Chowder: Add cumin, chili powder, and diced tomatoes for a Tex-Mex flavor.
• Seafood Ham Chowder: Add shrimp or crab for a surf-and-turf chowder experience.

Freezing and Storage for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

• Freezing: This chowder can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring well.
• Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.

Special Equipment for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Here are some kitchen tools that will make preparing your Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking.
• Ladle: For easy serving.
• Whisk: Helps mix in the flour and cheese smoothly.
• Potato Masher (Optional): If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes.
• Cutting Board – To provide a safe surface for chopping ingredients.
• Cheese Grater: For freshly grated cheese that melts better.
• Wooden Spoon – For stirring the soup as it simmers to prevent burning.
• Measuring Cups – To measure the broth, cheese, and other liquids precisely.
• Measuring Spoons – For measuring spices and seasonings accurately.
• Grater – For grating cheese, ensuring it melts evenly in the chowder.
• Blender or Immersion Blender – To puree part of the soup, if you like a creamier consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

1. Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
   Yes! The flavors develop even more when reheated the next day.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Parmesan.
3. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
   Add cheese gradually over low heat, stirring constantly.
4. Can I make this without flour?
   Yes! Use cornstarch instead or blend some of the potatoes to thicken the chowder.
5. Can I use ham from a can?
   Yes, but fresh or leftover ham provides the best flavor.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder is the perfect comfort food, rich in flavor and creamy in texture. With its savory chunks of ham and velvety cheese base, this chowder makes for an incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for cold days or whenever you’re in the mood for something hearty. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or making it from scratch, this dish comes together quickly and is guaranteed to hit the spot.

It’s the kind of meal that pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad. Plus, it keeps well for leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day—or even freeze some for a future cozy meal.

I’d love to see how your Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation! Happy cooking!