Ham and Corn Chowder Recipe: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss

Oh, let me tell you about the warm hug that is this ham and corn chowder recipe! There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of chowder, especially when the weather turns a bit chilly. It’s like wrapping yourself in your favorite blanket, but for your taste buds! I’ve been making this chowder for years, and it’s become a cherished staple in our household. Every spoonful brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter fills the air and the aroma of this rich, creamy soup fills the kitchen.

This recipe is extra special to me because it was passed down from my grandmother, who always knew how to make the simplest ingredients shine. It’s filled with hearty diced ham and sweet corn, making it a perfect blend of flavors. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight or to impress your friends at a cozy dinner party. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful, you’ll understand why I can never get enough of this chowder! It’s love in a bowl, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups diced ham
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Instructions

Let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this ham and corn chowder! I promise it’s easier than you might think, and it all comes together in just about 35 minutes. Here’s how to do it, step by step:

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. First things first, grab a large pot and melt the butter over medium heat. You want it to be nice and bubbly, but not burnt—careful there, it splatters if you’re not paying attention!
2. Once the butter is melted, toss in the chopped onion. Cook it for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s soft and translucent. Oh, the smell of sautéing onions is heavenly!
3. Now it’s time to add the star of our show—diced ham! Stir it in and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will really bring out the flavors and make your kitchen smell amazing.
4. Next, add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can poke them with a fork to check; they should be soft but not mushy.
5. Here comes the lovely part—add the corn and heavy cream to the pot. Stir it all together and season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really get creative, so don’t be shy!
6. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, just until everything is heated through. You want that chowder to be creamy and comforting, so give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
7. Finally, serve your chowder hot! I love to ladle it into bowls and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color.

And there you have it! An easy, comforting ham and corn chowder that’ll warm your soul. Just keep an eye on the simmering so it doesn’t boil over, and be sure to taste along the way to make it just right for you. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This chowder is packed with protein from the ham and hearty potatoes, making it a satisfying meal that sticks to your ribs.
• Comforting and Cozy: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chowder on a chilly evening. It wraps you in its creamy goodness!
• Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful and Rich: The combination of sweet corn and savory ham creates a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own!
• Kid-Friendly: This chowder is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great family meal option.
• Leftover Love: It stores beautifully, so you can enjoy the comforting flavors for days to come!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your ham and corn chowder turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite pro tips to elevate this comforting dish:

• Choose Quality Ham: The flavor of your chowder is heavily influenced by the ham you use. Opt for a good-quality, smoked ham or leftover holiday ham for that rich, savory taste. If you’re using deli ham, look for a thicker cut to get more texture.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: While fresh corn is delightful, don’t shy away from frozen! It’s picked and frozen at peak ripeness, which means it can be just as sweet and flavorful. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot.
• Prep Your Veggies Ahead: To make the cooking process smoother, chop your onion and dice your potatoes beforehand. This way, you can focus on cooking without the hassle of prep when the pot is already on the stove.
• Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Sautéing the onions and ham before adding other ingredients is crucial. It deepens the flavors and builds a delicious base for your chowder. Trust me, those little steps make a big difference!
• Adjust the Thickness: If you want a thicker chowder, you can mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot once they’re tender. This will help create that creamy texture without needing to add extra cream. You can also stir in a cornstarch slurry if you prefer it even thicker!
• Season as You Go: Seasoning at each stage of cooking helps build layers of flavor. Taste as you add salt and pepper to ensure it’s just right. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the flavors of the chowder. Plus, it makes your dish look extra inviting!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a ham and corn chowder that will have everyone raving! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your ham and corn chowder, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! These variations will take your chowder from delightful to absolutely unforgettable:

• Veggie Boost: Add in some chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra color and crunch. They’ll not only enhance the flavor but also make your chowder even more nutritious!
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’ll give your chowder a nice spicy edge that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a beautiful aromatic touch. Just toss in a few sprigs while the chowder simmers, then remove them before serving for that extra depth of flavor.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese right before serving for a rich, creamy twist! It melts beautifully and adds a delightful cheesiness that pairs perfectly with the ham.
• Smoky Flavor: For a deeper, smoky taste, consider adding some smoked paprika or even a splash of liquid smoke. It’ll elevate the chowder to a whole new level of flavor!
• Sweet Potato Swap: Try using diced sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a subtle sweetness and a pop of color. They’ll add a wonderful texture and flavor to your chowder.
• Coconut Cream Twist: For a unique twist, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream. It’ll give your chowder a tropical flavor that’s both creamy and delicious!

With these variations, you can easily make this ham and corn chowder your own! So go ahead and experiment—each bowl will be a new adventure in comforting flavors!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious ham and corn chowder fresh and ready for another comforting meal! Proper storage is key to enjoying this chowder at its best, so here’s what I recommend:

First off, let the chowder cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the container, which can make the chowder watery. Once it’s cooled, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. I usually like to use glass containers because they keep the flavors intact and are easy to reheat!

You can store your chowder in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed so it doesn’t pick up any other fridge odors. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to leave a little space at the top of the container since the chowder will expand as it freezes.

Now, when it’s time to enjoy those cozy leftovers, reheating is important to keep that creamy texture! For the best results, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop. Pour the chowder into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken broth or some water to loosen it up, and stir until it’s back to that creamy goodness.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters), and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between. This way, it heats evenly without overcooking.

So, whether you’re enjoying a big bowl right away or saving some for later, these tips will help you savor every last bite of your ham and corn chowder! Enjoy your delicious creations!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this ham and corn chowder recipe! It’s always good to know what you’re putting in your body, right? Here’s the estimated breakdown per serving (1 cup) of this comforting chowder:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 15g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs and preferences. But no matter how you slice it, this chowder is a hearty and satisfying option that won’t disappoint! Enjoy every nourishing bite!

FAQ Section

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the great things about this ham and corn chowder recipe is that it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use canned corn in this chowder! Just drain and rinse the corn before adding it to the pot. It’s a great time-saver and still gives you that sweet corn flavor you love!

How do I thicken my chowder if it’s too thin?
If your ham and corn chowder ends up a bit thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! You can mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot to thicken it up. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the chowder and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.

Is this chowder gluten-free?
Yes, this ham and corn chowder recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check that your chicken broth doesn’t contain any gluten, as some store-bought versions might have additives. But overall, it’s a comforting choice for anyone avoiding gluten.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! This chowder freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

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