Cheese, Ham And Beer Chowder
A creamy, hearty chowder combining cheese, ham, corn, and vegetables with a savory beer-infused broth, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet; cook frozen corn, shredded carrots, and diced onion for 2 minutes.
- Add 1/4 cup water and cook until vegetables are soft.
- In a large pot, combine condensed cream of potato soup and milk; heat gently.
- Stir in cooked diced ham and shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked vegetables and stir well to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add some spice, a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor. You can substitute the ham with cooked chicken or turkey for a different protein option. Vegetables like bell peppers or celery can also work well if you want to add more variety. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Verda's Corn Pudding.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional shredded Cheddar cheese for extra flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fruit salad or even pairing it with a slice of Fresh Blueberry Banana Bread for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer the chowder to a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese, Ham And Beer Chowder contains roughly 1031 calories, with 30g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (151% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2141mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chowder vegetarian by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the leftover chowder?
Freezing this chowder is not recommended due to the dairy content, which can separate when thawed. However, if you do choose to freeze it, make sure to cool it completely and store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
What type of beer is best for this recipe?
A light lager or pilsner works well for cooking in this chowder, as they won't overpower the dish's flavors. Avoid dark beers, which can add bitterness. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute beer with non-alcoholic beer or additional broth.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).