Cheesy Ham And Potato Chowder
A hearty and comforting cheesy ham and potato chowder packed with tender vegetables, melted cheddar cheese, and savory ham. Perfect for chilly evenings, this creamy soup combines rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a family favorite that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, bring water to a boil.
- Add salt, pepper, and vegetables; cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until vegetables are done.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan.
- Blend in flour, then gradually stir in milk, cooking over medium heat and stirring constantly until the mixture boils.
- Boil for 1 minute, then add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Slowly stir the cheese mixture into the cooked vegetables.
- Add ham and stir well.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a more robust flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the cheddar cheese with a blend of Monterey Jack and pepper jack for a different taste. This recipe is versatile; try adding vegetables like corn or peas for extra nutrition. It's a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with Rookie'S Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or chopped green onions for added freshness. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it in bread bowls or alongside crispy bacon bits. This chowder is a hearty option perfect for chilly evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the pot. If the chowder thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Ham And Potato Chowder contains roughly 996 calories, with 23g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1548mg per serving (67% 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 use leftover ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover ham is perfect for this chowder. Just cube it and add it in the final steps when combining with the cheese mixture. It enhances the flavor and makes for a great way to use up leftovers.
Can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor with more vegetables like carrots or mushrooms. This would also fit well within vegetarian recipes.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can add more flour to the butter mixture or blend a portion of the potatoes before returning them to the pot. Another option is to let the chowder simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.
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).