Corny Ham Chowder
A hearty, creamy ham chowder packed with sweet corn, potatoes, and smoky bacon, perfect for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a skillet until crisp.
- Drain the bacon and reserve 1/4 of the bacon grease.
- Saute chopped onions in the bacon grease until tender.
- Combine chopped potatoes, sliced celery, sautéed onions, and chicken broth in a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cubed ham and both cans of corn (whole kernel and cream-style).
- Add half and half, heat thoroughly, and season with black pepper and salt to taste.
- Serve the chowder with crumbled bacon and parsley sprinkled on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smokier flavor, try using smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke to the chowder. If you want to make it heartier, consider adding some shredded carrots or frozen peas. You can also substitute the ham with leftover rotisserie chicken for a different twist, making it a great option if you're looking for chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, topped with crumbled bacon and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an American recipes theme, consider serving it alongside a classic apple pie for dessert.
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 occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corny Ham Chowder contains roughly 845 calories, with 40g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (192% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1539mg 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 fresh corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can use fresh corn! About 3-4 ears of corn should be enough. Just cut the kernels off the cob and add them to the chowder after the potatoes are tender. Fresh corn will add a delightful sweetness and crunch to the chowder.
Is it possible to make this chowder vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and ham, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the chowder?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder, but it's best to do so without the half and half added. Cool the chowder completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and stir in the half and half just before serving.
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).