Creamy ham corn chowder has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially when the weather turns chilly. I remember my mom making a big pot of this delicious soup on rainy Sundays; the aroma of savory ham, sweet corn, and simmering broth would fill our entire house. It’s a truly hearty ham and corn chowder that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This easy recipe brings back those wonderful memories and delivers the most satisfying creamy corn and ham soup you can imagine. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
This recipe isn’t just soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort! Here’s why you’ll be making this chowder again and again:
- Incredibly Flavorful: A perfect balance of savory ham, sweet corn, and aromatic vegetables.
- Easy Ham and Corn Chowder Recipe: Simple steps make it approachable for any home cook.
- Hearty Ham and Corn Chowder: Packed with potatoes and ham, it’s a satisfying meal on its own.
- Quick Preparation: You can have this delicious soup on the table in under an hour.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for dietary needs or to include extra veggies.
- Comforting and Cozy: It’s the perfect antidote to a cold day or a gloomy mood.
- Homemade Goodness: Tastes even better than anything you’d buy from a restaurant.
Ingredients for Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
Gather these ingredients for a truly delicious corn and ham chowder recipe that’s packed with flavor and goodness:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
- 1 pound ham, diced – leftover baked ham is perfect here!
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion – the base of our flavor
- 1 cup chopped carrots – adds sweetness and color
- 1 cup chopped celery – for that classic chowder aroma
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for depth
- 4 cups chicken broth – the liquid foundation
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen) – for that sweet corn flavor
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced – starchy goodness that makes it hearty
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – a touch of warmth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – brings an earthy note
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of smoky depth
- 2 cups milk – for creaminess
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – to make it extra luscious
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening) – if you like a thicker chowder
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening) – to create a slurry
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – for a pop of freshness
How to Make Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and hearty bowl of chowder. This is how to make creamy ham corn chowder that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 pound ham, diced and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. This little step adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Remove the ham with a slotted spoon and set it aside for later.
- Step 2: Add 1 cup chopped yellow onion, 1 cup chopped carrots, and 1 cup chopped celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they begin to soften, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll start to smell that lovely savory aroma!
- Step 3: Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Step 4: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 5: Add 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen), 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Return the browned ham to the pot. This is where all the flavors really start to meld together.
- Step 6: Bring the chowder to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Step 7: In a separate small bowl, whisk together 2 cups milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream until well combined. Slowly stir this creamy mixture into the simmering chowder.
- Step 8: If you prefer a thicker chowder, whisk together 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water in a small bowl until smooth, creating a slurry. Stir this slurry into the chowder and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens to your liking. This makes for a truly quick ham and corn chowder.
- Step 9: Taste your masterpiece and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Step 10: Ladle the hot, creamy ham corn chowder into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of freshness and color. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
Want to elevate your chowder game? These tips will ensure your homemade ham and corn chowder is absolutely perfect every time.
- For an extra depth of flavor, use good quality ham, like leftover baked ham or even diced ham steaks.
- Don’t skip sautéing the vegetables; softening them first releases their natural sweetness and creates a better flavor base.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, half-and-half can be used, but the chowder might be slightly less rich.
- Taste and adjust seasonings right at the end. Sometimes the ham is salty, so you might need less salt than you think.
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Ham Corn Chowder?
The secret to a truly perfect and best creamy ham corn chowder lies in building layers of flavor. Sautéing the aromatics (onion, celery, carrots) until softened and browning the ham before adding liquid is crucial. Also, don’t overcook the potatoes; you want them tender but not mushy.
Can I make Creamy Ham Corn Chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! This homemade ham and corn chowder often tastes even better the next day. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash more milk or broth if it has thickened too much.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Ham Corn Chowder?
A common pitfall is a watery chowder. To avoid this, ensure you’re properly thickening it; if you find it’s still too thin after adding the milk, use the cornstarch slurry. Also, be careful not to overcook the corn; it should remain slightly sweet and tender, not mushy.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
This comforting bowl of delicious ham corn chowder soup is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a simple yet satisfying meal, I love serving it with crusty bread or warm cornbread. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich, creamy broth. Another great option is a light, fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette; the crispness of the greens offers a lovely contrast to the chowder’s heartiness.
Variations of Creamy Ham Corn Chowder You Can Try
Feeling adventurous? This creamy ham corn chowder is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:
- Cheesy Ham and Corn Chowder: For an extra layer of indulgence, stir in about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking until it’s melted and gooey. This makes for an incredibly decadent and delicious ham corn chowder soup.
- Low-Carb Ham Corn Chowder: To make this a low-carb ham corn chowder, simply swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets and use a sugar-free corn substitute like finely chopped yellow bell peppers or omit the corn altogether. You’ll still get that wonderful creamy texture and savory ham flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño along with the onions and carrots for a chowder with a gentle warmth that complements the sweet corn and smoky ham.
- Smoked Sausage Swap: Instead of ham, try using diced smoked sausage. It adds a different, but equally delicious, smoky depth to the chowder.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
What is ham and corn chowder?
Ham and corn chowder is a hearty, comforting soup made with a base of creamy broth, tender potatoes, sweet corn kernels, and savory diced ham. It’s a classic American dish, often associated with cozy meals and cooler weather. This type of chowder is known for its rich texture and satisfying blend of flavors, making it a popular choice for families.
Why is ham corn chowder so good?
The magic of this chowder lies in its perfect balance of tastes and textures. The sweetness of the corn, the salty richness of the ham, and the creamy, starchy potatoes all come together beautifully. When made into a creamy ham corn chowder, the luxurious mouthfeel only enhances these flavors. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying combination that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, making it a beloved dish for many.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels are wonderful in this chowder, adding a bright, sweet flavor. You’ll need about 2 cups of kernels, which is roughly 3-4 ears of corn. If using fresh corn, you can sauté it briefly with the other vegetables before adding the broth, or simply add it directly with the potatoes and ham. It makes for a delicious variation of this corn and ham chowder recipe.
What kind of ham is best for this chowder?
Leftover baked ham or a good quality diced ham steak works best. The key is to use ham that has a good flavor and isn’t too lean, as the fat helps add richness to the soup. Avoid overly processed or very salty ham, as you can always adjust the salt in the recipe. Using flavorful ham is a simple way to ensure your homemade ham and corn chowder is absolutely delicious.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious chowder. It’s a satisfying meal that offers a good balance of nutrients.
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 8g
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Ham Corn Chowder
This simple ham and corn chowder is fantastic for meal prep, as it stores and reheats beautifully. Once your chowder has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, pop those airtight containers into the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. Freezing it in individual portions makes reheating even easier!
When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder again, the best way to reheat it is gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t scorch. If the chowder has thickened too much during storage, simply stir in a splash of milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Print
Creamy Ham Corn Chowder: 1 Comforting Bowl
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, hearty, and comforting ham and corn chowder recipe, perfect for a chilly evening. This easy-to-make chowder is packed with flavor and brings back fond memories.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ham, diced
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 pound potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced ham and cook until lightly browned. Remove ham with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add diced potatoes, corn kernels, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Return the browned ham to the pot.
- Bring the chowder to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together milk and heavy cream. Slowly stir this mixture into the chowder.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, whisk together cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering chowder and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Ladle the creamy ham corn chowder into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like peas or green beans for more substance.
- To make a cheesy ham and corn chowder, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end until melted.
- Adjust the amount of cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired chowder thickness.
- This chowder can be made ahead and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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