Cozy Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
When the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. One of my all-time favorites is this creamy Ham and Potato Corn Chowder. Filled with tender potatoes, smoky bits of turkey bacon, and the sweetness of corn, it’s like wrapping yourself in a fluffy blanket after a long day.
I remember my grandmother making chowder for our family gatherings, filling the kitchen with such inviting aromas that even the chill of autumn couldn’t penetrate our cozy space. This version captures that same warmth and nostalgia, making it the perfect easy weeknight dinner for busy families. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Cozy: A rich, creamy base envelops tender potatoes and savory turkey bacon, creating a bowlful of comfort.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, this chowder is perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand!
- Family-Friendly: Picky eaters will love the delightful mix of flavors, making it a hit with everyone.
- Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze extras for a cozy meal later!
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your comforting bowl of chowder:
- 4 strips turkey bacon
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup heavy (or whipping) cream
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 pound smoked ham, chopped
- 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
Let’s roll up our sleeves and make this delicious chowder together!
Slice the turkey bacon into small pieces (kitchen shears make this easy). In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 10 minutes.
While the bacon cooks, chop the onion, celery, potatoes, and ham.
Once the bacon is crisp, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the turkey bacon drippings in the pot.
Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the flour and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to dissolve the flour and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the cream, frozen corn, chopped ham, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), and most of the turkey bacon (reserve some for garnish). Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cover partially and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally as the soup thickens.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with the reserved turkey bacon before serving.
Fun Ways to Customize It
There are so many delightful variations to make this chowder your own:
- Zesty Additions: Stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of hot sauce for a bright, zesty kick.
- Creamy Dream: For an ultra-rich experience, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or add a dollop of cream cheese.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some diced bell peppers or leafy greens like spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Cheesy Comfort: Add a handful of shredded cheese, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack, for an indulgent touch.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To make your chowder experience even better, consider these handy tips:
- Make-Ahead Advice: You can prepare the base of the soup in advance. Just add the potatoes on the day you want to enjoy it to keep them fresh.
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have ham? Try using cooked chicken or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Cutting Tips: For evenly diced potatoes, cut them all to the same size to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chowder a day in advance and let the flavors meld together beautifully overnight.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to use leftover meats or seasonal vegetables to make it your own.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop to keep it creamy.
How long does it last?
When stored properly, this chowder can last in the fridge for about 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it before adding the cream.
A Cozy Closing Note
This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is not just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and comforting, it promises to bring a smile to your family’s face just as it did for mine. So, be sure to save this cozy recipe to your cooking board — you’ll want to return to this comforting delight again and again!
