Ham Chowder (Soup)
A hearty and comforting ham chowder featuring tender broccoli, potatoes, and melted cheese in a creamy milk base. This soup offers a savory blend of flavors perfect for a warming lunch or dinner, ideal for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute celery and onions in margarine at low heat until tender.
- Chop broccoli and cook in water until it begins to tender. Drain.
- Mix the cooked broccoli with the celery and onion mixture.
- Add the cubed, cooked potatoes (drained) to the mixture.
- Add salt, pepper, milk, cheese, and chopped cooked ham to the mixture.
- Simmer until heated through and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach if desired. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of milk. This Ham Chowder pairs beautifully with Wilma'S Cornbread Dressing for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a light dessert, consider serving it alongside Rosie'S Banana Icee to balance the meal with a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ham Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving it directly as this may cause uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Chowder (Soup) contains roughly 462 calories, with 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2163mg per serving (94% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, Ham Chowder can be made ahead. Prepare it up to the simmering step, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently over low heat until warm. This allows the flavors to develop further, making it even tastier.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or don't have ham on hand, you can replace it with cooked chickpeas or a plant-based sausage. Both add protein and texture while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
Is it possible to freeze Ham Chowder?
Yes, you can freeze Ham Chowder! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
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).