Let me take you on a journey to the heart of comfort food with a recipe that’s as cozy as a warm blanket on a chilly evening. Easy Ham Chowder a creamy, hearty bowl of chowder, brimming with tender chunks of ham, velvety potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. This isn’t just any chowder—it’s an Easy Ham Chowder Recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or even impromptu gatherings with friends and family.
What makes this recipe a standout? It’s the simplicity. You don’t need to be a Michelin-starred chef to whip this up. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove all day. The flavors are deep and comforting, with the smoky richness of ham playing the starring role, complemented by the creaminess of the broth and the earthiness of the vegetables.
But let’s talk about versatility. This Ham Chowder is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Want to add a kick of spice? Throw in some diced jalapeños. Craving a touch of sweetness? A handful of corn kernels will do the trick. It’s a recipe that adapts to your mood and pantry, making it a go-to for any occasion.
And let’s not forget the nostalgia factor. There’s something about a bowl of chowder that takes you back to simpler times—family dinners, holiday leftovers, or even that cozy café you stumbled upon during a winter getaway. This recipe captures that essence, delivering a taste of home in every spoonful.
So, whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this Easy Ham Chowder Recipe is here to make your life easier, tastier, and a whole lot cozier. Let’s dive in and create something truly special.
Why This Easy Ham Chowder Recipe is a Must-Try
This Easy Ham Chowder Recipe is the ultimate comfort food hack. It’s quick, it’s creamy, and it’s packed with flavor. The smoky ham, tender potatoes, and rich broth come together in a way that feels indulgent yet effortless.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours of prep time. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious.
The flavors are deeply satisfying. The ham adds a smoky richness, while the potatoes and vegetables provide a hearty, comforting base. The creamy broth ties it all together, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful.
And let’s not forget the versatility. This chowder is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Add corn, swap in different vegetables, or spice it up with jalapeños—it’s all up to you.
A Family Favorite: The Story Behind This Recipe
This Easy Ham Chowder Recipe has become a staple in our household, and it all started with a snowy weekend a few years ago. My husband, who’s usually more of a “grill master” than a soup enthusiast, surprised me by requesting something warm and comforting. I rummaged through the fridge, found some leftover holiday ham, and decided to whip up a chowder.
The result? Pure magic. The smoky ham paired perfectly with the creamy broth and tender vegetables, and the whole family couldn’t get enough. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, asked for seconds—and thirds! Since then, this chowder has become a regular on our dinner rotation, especially during the colder months.
It’s not just the taste that makes this recipe special—it’s the memories we’ve built around it. From cozy family dinners to impromptu gatherings with friends, this chowder has a way of bringing people together. It’s a dish that’s as much about the experience as it is about the flavors.
Why This Easy Ham Chowder Recipe
This Easy Ham Chowder Recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
Second, it’s versatile. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting from scratch, this recipe adapts to your needs. You can add your favorite vegetables, swap in different proteins, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Third, it’s deeply satisfying. The combination of smoky ham, creamy broth, and hearty vegetables creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this chowder is sure to impress. It’s a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Tips For Easy Ham Chowder
Use leftover ham: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover holiday ham. The smoky flavor adds depth to the chowder.
Don’t skip the roux: The flour and butter mixture helps thicken the chowder, giving it a creamy consistency.
Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add corn, peas, or your favorite veggies to make the chowder your own.
Substitutions and Variations
Vegetarian option: Swap the ham for smoked tofu or mushrooms.
Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Lighter version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Make a Healthier Version
For a lighter take on this Ham Chowder, try these swaps:
Use low-fat milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream.
Replace the butter with olive oil.
Add extra vegetables like spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
Closing For Easy Ham Chowder
And there you have it! A simple, delicious Easy Ham Chowder Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider chcking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration.
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Ham Chowder, a hearty and creamy soup packed with savory ham, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs. This satisfying dish is perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with loved ones.
Ingredients
2cups cooked ham, diced
3medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1cup carrots, diced
1cup celery, diced
1small onion, finely chopped
3cups chicken broth
1cup heavy cream
2tablespoons butter
2tablespoons all-purpose flour
1teaspoon garlic powder
1teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the vegetables, creating a roux.
2
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes, ham, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3
Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the chowder simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories2047.26kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat128.91g199%
Saturated Fat73.43g368%
Cholesterol508.22mg170%
Sodium5879.9mg245%
Potassium4579.01mg131%
Total Carbohydrate158.27g53%
Dietary Fiber21.95g88%
Sugars25.72g
Protein72.09g145%
Vitamin A 27385.81 IU
Vitamin C 201.21 mg
Calcium 395.82 mg
Iron 9.91 mg
Vitamin D 3.81 mcg
Vitamin E 4.96 mg
Vitamin K 135.75 mcg
Thiamin 2.18 mg
Riboflavin 1.87 mg
Niacin 19.3 mg
Vitamin B6 2.99 mg
Folate 229.28 mcg
Vitamin B12 3.76 mcg
Pantothenic Acid 5.4 mg
Phosphorus 1323.67 mg
Magnesium 263.35 mg
Zinc 8.86 mg
Selenium 63.72 mcg
Copper 1.26 mg
Manganese 1.96 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Keywords:
Ham, Chowder, Potatoes, Cream, Corn
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Emma
Food and Lifestyle Blogger
Hello! I’m Emma, the food lover and home chef behind Cuts Food. My passion for cooking started with simple, hearty meals shared around the family table. At Cuts Food, I bring you tried-and-true recipes, kitchen tips, and a love for flavors that inspire.