Onion, Ham And Cheese Chowder
A hearty, cheesy ham and onion chowder with tender potatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, featuring rich flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cubed potatoes in boiling water until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and reserve the cooking liquid.
- Add enough water to the reserved liquid to make 1 cup of potato water.
- In a saucepan, cook chopped onion in butter until tender.
- Blend in flour and a dash of pepper.
- Add milk and potato water all at once.
- Cook and stir until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Add chopped ham and shredded cheese; stir to melt the cheese.
- Add the cooked potatoes.
- Season with salt to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or whole milk when combining the liquids. If you're short on time, pre-cooked diced ham can replace the cooked ham, and frozen potatoes can work in a pinch. A dash of garlic powder can enhance the flavor too. This chowder also pairs beautifully with Wilma'S Cheddar Cheese Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce on the side. This dish also complements sides like Melvena'S Delicious Jellied Old Fashioned Cole Slaw.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can change the texture of the chowder.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion, Ham And Cheese Chowder contains roughly 572 calories, with 12g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 use other types of cheese in this chowder?
Yes, you can substitute the sharp Cheddar with other cheese varieties like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, which will offer different flavors. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary slightly, affecting the texture of the chowder.
Is this chowder suitable for freezing?
While this chowder can be frozen, the texture may change upon reheating, especially with the cheese. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Consume within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for added flavor and nutrition, making it a hearty chowder without the meat.
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).