Easy Southwestern Corn Chowder
A creamy, flavorful corn chowder with tender ham and a hint of green chili heat, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its rich corn base and savory ham make it a comforting choice for those craving a hearty, southwestern-inspired soup that comes together quickly and easily.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart saucepan, combine ham, one can of corn, and green chilies.
- Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture just comes to a boil, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in sour cream and milk.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker chowder, consider adding a few diced potatoes or blending a portion of the mixture. You can substitute cooked turkey for ham if desired, and for a vegetarian version, use black beans instead of ham. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a kick. This dish pairs well with a side of B~B~Q Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a Breakfast Omelet for a filling brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover corn chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently to maintain a creamy texture. You may need to add a splash of milk to loosen it up as it reheats.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Southwestern Corn Chowder contains roughly 192 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% 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 frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen corn in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pot. Frozen corn may provide a fresher taste and a slightly different texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the chowder.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the chowder. You can also use spicy green chilies instead of mild ones. Adjust the heat to your preference by tasting as you go.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this chowder dairy-free, substitute the light sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt, and use almond or oat milk instead of skim milk. This will maintain a creamy texture while catering to dietary restrictions.
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).