Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

why make this recipe

Easy Ham and Corn Chowder is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. It combines savory ham and sweet corn with creamy potatoes to create a delicious meal. This chowder is quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s filling and sure to please the whole family.

how to make Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups diced ham
  • 4 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 large potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in the diced potatoes and corn, cooking for a few minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  6. Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Cook until everything is heated through.
  8. Serve warm, garnished with crispy bacon and optionally with chopped green onions.
Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

how to serve Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

Serve the chowder warm in bowls. You can top it with the crispy bacon and chopped green onions for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

how to store Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to freeze it, allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

  • For added flavor, try using smoked ham.
  • If you like a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the pot to create a creamy texture.
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a nice touch.

variation

You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use lower-fat chicken broth.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn. Just drain it before adding it to the pot.

How long does it take to make this chowder?
It takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dish.

Can I make this chowder in advance?
Yes, this chowder can be made ahead of time. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Easy Ham and Corn Chowder

A comforting and delicious chowder featuring savory ham and sweet corn, perfect for chilly days and quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced ham Savory option, try smoked ham for added flavor
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped Provides crispy texture
  • 4 cups corn Can be fresh or frozen
  • 2 large potatoes, diced Creates a creamy texture when cooked
  • 1 onion, chopped Adds flavor
  • 2 cups chicken broth Low-fat version can be used
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  • Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened.
  • Stir in the diced potatoes and corn, cooking for a few minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Stir in the diced ham and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Cook until everything is heated through.

Serving

  • Serve warm in bowls, garnished with crispy bacon and optionally with chopped green onions.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using smoked ham. To thicken the chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the pot for a creamier texture. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keyword Chowder Recipe, Comfort Food, Corn Chowder, Ham Chowder, Quick Meal