Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder

A rich and creamy potato soup with sweet corn and salty pieces of ham and bacon. Practically guaranteed to be a new favorite!

Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder
Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder

A rich and creamy potato soup with sweet corn and salty pieces of ham and bacon. Practically guaranteed to be a new favorite!

  • Preparing Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 6

Step-by-step

  • In a large pot, melt 1 1/2 Tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Add onion, carrot, and celery and saute until tender, about 4 minutes.
  • Add chicken broth, potatoes, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste (slightly under-season with salt as the ham and bacon will add more saltiness to soup).
  • Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium, cover with lid and allow to cook, stirring occasionally until potatoes are nearly tender, about 15 minutes.
  • Add in ham and corn and cook until potatoes are tender, about 5 minutes longer.
  • Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt remaining 4 Tbsp butter over medium heat.
  • Add flour and cook mixture, stirring constantly, 1 1/2 minutes.
  • While whisking, slowly add in milk, and whisk vigorously to smooth lumps, season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bring mixture to a boil and allow to thicken, whisking constantly.
  • Remove from heat, stir in sour cream or cream.
  • Pour and stir milk mixture into soup mixture (once potatoes are tender).
  • Serve warm topped with bacon and chives.

My Comfort Food: Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder

As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" I need meals that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious enough to satisfy my family's rumbling bellies. That's where this Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder comes in. It's become a staple in our home, a warm hug in a bowl that always hits the spot.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flexibility. I often use leftover ham from a holiday roast or a quick ham steak, making it a fantastic way to minimize food waste and maximize flavor. The sweetness of the corn perfectly complements the salty ham, while the creamy base adds a touch of indulgence that everyone loves. On busy nights, I even use frozen corn—it works just as well, saving me precious prep time. The potatoes provide a hearty base, and the simple blend of herbs adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors. It's a truly adaptable recipe that can be tailored to whatever ingredients I have on hand.

This chowder is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition. The comforting aroma that fills our kitchen as it simmers is enough to bring smiles to everyone's faces. It's the kind of food that sparks conversations and creates lasting memories. My kids love helping me chop the vegetables, and the process becomes a fun family activity. The satisfaction of creating something so delicious and nourishing together is priceless.

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this chowder is a testament to the power of simple ingredients. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying meals come from the most basic recipes. There's nothing fancy or overly complicated about this chowder, yet it manages to be incredibly rich and flavorful. That's what I love most about it; it's a celebration of simple, wholesome food done right.

This Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder is not just a recipe; it's a warm embrace on a cold night, a comforting presence on a busy week, and a testament to the enduring power of family and food. It’s a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there's always time for a little comfort and a whole lot of deliciousness.

I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with different herbs and spices, add your favorite vegetables, or even try different types of meat. The possibilities are endless. But no matter how you adapt it, I’m confident that this chowder will quickly become a family favorite, just as it has for mine.

So, the next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal, give this Creamy Ham Potato and Corn Chowder a try. You won't be disappointed. It's more than just a soup; it’s a taste of home.