Ham 'N Cheese Chowder
Creamy ham and cheese chowder with tender potatoes and onions, infused with rich flavors and melted cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1/2 cup water and a dash of salt in a small saucepan; bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes and reduce heat; cook for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Drain, reserving the liquid, and set potatoes aside.
- Add enough water to the potato liquid to make 1 cup; set aside.
- Melt butter in a 3-quart Dutch oven.
- Add chopped onion; sauté until tender.
- Blend in flour and pepper.
- Stir in milk and the reserved potato liquid.
- Cook over medium heat until mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened.
- Add cooked potatoes and diced ham; heat gently.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Top with croutons if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked potatoes can be used to skip the boiling step. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor too, making it reminiscent of other comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder is hearty enough to be served as a standalone meal, but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread. For an extra crunch, serve with croutons on top. It also goes well with Barbecued Ham Sandwiches for a complete comfort food experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham 'N Cheese Chowder contains roughly 1270 calories, with 15g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2228mg per serving (97% 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 freeze ham 'n cheese chowder?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder, but it's best to do so without the cheese. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding fresh cheese when serving.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you want to make a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham entirely and replace it with diced mushrooms or smoked tofu for added flavor. Alternatively, turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ham if you prefer a lighter option.
How can I thicken the chowder?
If you find your chowder is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with some cold water and stirring it into the simmering chowder. Allow it to cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
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).