Creamy Potato Chowder
Creamy potato chowder combines tender potatoes, sweet corn, diced ham, and aromatic herbs in a comforting, hearty soup perfect for chilly days and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place potatoes, onion, and carrots in a large kettle or saucepan.
- Add enough water to cover the vegetables.
- Bring to a boil and cook until vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Add corn, ham, bay leaves, garlic salt, pepper, parsley flakes, butter, and enough milk to reach desired soup consistency.
- Simmer uncovered over medium to low heat for 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or sausage for a different flavor profile. Adding celery or bell peppers can enhance the taste and texture. If you want a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes before adding the milk. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy potato chowder with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Barbecued Pork Tenderloin, making for a hearty dinner. For added garnishes, consider topping with shredded cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy texture. Avoid boiling, as it can separate the ingredients and alter the taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Potato Chowder contains roughly 1037 calories, with 20g protein, 170g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (125% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 35g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 may also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it hearty.
Can I freeze the chowder?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chowder for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. When reheating, add additional milk to restore creaminess, as freezing can change the texture.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. You could also serve the chowder with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to customize their bowl according to their spice preference.
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).