Craving a warm, hearty dish? This Creamy Ham & Corn Chowder is just what you need! Packed with savory ham, sweet corn, and rich cream, it’s a meal that will comfort and satisfy. Not only will I walk you through easy steps to make this chowder, but I’ll also share tips to make it perfect every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This chowder brings together the savory taste of ham and the sweetness of corn, creating a deliciously comforting meal that warms the soul.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a flexible dish that suits your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This chowder not only tastes great fresh, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers that can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make a tasty creamy ham and corn chowder, these ingredients are key. The diced ham gives it a nice, savory depth. I love using fresh onion and garlic for flavor. Potatoes add a hearty touch, making the soup feel filling. Sweet corn brings a natural sweetness that balances the dish. Chicken broth helps tie everything together, creating a warm base. Heavy cream is essential for that rich, creamy texture. Don’t forget the thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Suggested Garnishes
- Fresh parsley
- Heavy cream drizzle
Garnishes elevate your chowder. Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh taste. A drizzle of heavy cream on top gives a lovely presentation and extra creaminess. These simple touches make your chowder feel special. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, gather your ingredients. You will need diced ham, onion, garlic, potatoes, corn, chicken broth, cream, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and clear, about 4-5 minutes. The smell is amazing!
3. Next, stir in the diced ham. Cook for about 3 minutes. This lets the ham flavors mix well.
Cooking Process
1. Now, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the thyme.
2. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. The potatoes should become tender.
3. When the potatoes are ready, add the drained corn and heavy cream. Stir well to mix everything. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This thickens the chowder nicely.
Final Touches
1. Taste the chowder. Add salt and pepper to make it just right for you.
2. Turn off the heat and let the chowder sit for a few minutes.
3. Serve the chowder hot in bowls. Top with fresh parsley for color. If you like, drizzle some heavy cream on top. Enjoy with crusty bread!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfect Creaminess
To make your chowder creamy, you need heavy cream. This thickens the soup and adds richness. Without it, your chowder may feel thin. Use a full cup of heavy cream for the best results.
Stirring is also key. When you add the cream, stir gently. This helps mix it well without breaking down your ingredients. Don’t rush this step; let the cream blend in slowly.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavors, add spices like thyme. This gives your chowder a warm, herby taste. You can also try adding fresh herbs like parsley. They brighten the dish and add freshness.
Want more texture? Consider adding extra veggies. Carrots or celery work well. You can even add proteins like shredded chicken or beans for a heartier meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Be careful not to overcook your potatoes. If they get too soft, they can break apart. Aim for fork-tender cubes that still hold their shape.
Another mistake is skipping seasoning adjustments. Always taste your chowder before serving. You might need more salt or pepper to enhance the flavors. Adjust as needed for the best taste.
Pro Tips
- Use Leftover Ham: This chowder is a great way to use up leftover ham from holiday meals or other dishes, adding depth of flavor to your soup.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a plant-based cream alternative.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to include additional vegetables such as carrots or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Storage Tips: This chowder keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Variations
Dietary Modifications
For those needing gluten-free options, use gluten-free broth and check your ham. Many hams are gluten-free, but always verify the label. If you want a dairy-free chowder, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. This adds a nice flavor and keeps it creamy.
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the flavor by using smoky ham or bacon. The smokiness adds depth and richness to the chowder. For some heat, add spices like cayenne or paprika. Start with a little, taste, and add more as you like.
Alternative Ingredients
Using fresh corn can make your chowder taste even better. If you prefer canned corn, that works too! You can also try different broth options. Vegetable broth gives a lighter taste, while turkey broth adds a richer flavor.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Your creamy ham and corn chowder will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. When you want to reheat, pour the chowder into a pot. Heat it on low to medium heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. You can also use the microwave. Just heat it in short bursts and stir in between.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze chowder, but it’s best to freeze it without the heavy cream. This helps keep the texture smooth. To freeze, let the chowder cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer bags or containers. Leave some space for expansion. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, follow the same steps as for refrigeration, adding cream after warming. This keeps it creamy and delicious.
FAQs
How can I make my chowder thicker?
To make your chowder thicker, you can use cornstarch or flour. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with cold water until smooth. Add this mix to the chowder while it simmers. Stir well and let it cook for a few minutes. This will help thicken the soup nicely.
Another way to thicken your chowder is by blending a portion of the soup. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender. Blend about a cup of the chowder until smooth, then stir it back in. This adds creaminess without needing extra ingredients.
Can I use leftover ham for this recipe?
Yes, you can use leftover ham for this recipe. It’s a great way to reduce waste and add flavor. Chop your leftover ham into small pieces. Add it to the pot with the onion and garlic as you start the recipe. This will infuse the chowder with rich, smoky flavor.
If you have a lot of ham, feel free to add more than a cup. The more ham, the heartier the chowder!
What to serve with creamy ham and corn chowder?
Creamy ham and corn chowder pairs well with crusty bread. A nice loaf of sourdough or a baguette works great for dipping. You can also serve a fresh salad on the side to balance the meal.
Another option is to add some crackers. They add a nice crunch and are easy to enjoy with the chowder. Enjoying your chowder with these sides will make it a complete meal!
In this post, I shared how to make a creamy ham and corn chowder. We explored the main ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for achieving the best flavor and texture. Remember to stir well to ensure perfect creaminess. Don’t skip seasoning, and feel free to customize with your favorite spices. You can also adapt this recipe for dietary needs. With proper storage, your chowder can stay fresh for days. Enjoy this tasty recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors. You’ll create a dish that delight
Creamy Ham & Corn Chowder Delight
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can sweet corn, drained (15 oz)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced ham and cook for another 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, add the drained corn and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chowder to thicken slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
