Speedy Potato Chowder
A creamy, hearty potato chowder with bacon, ham, and corn, perfect for a quick comforting meal that appeals to both family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart pan over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Save 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings.
- In the same pan, sauté chopped onion in bacon drippings until tender.
- Add condensed cream of potato soup, evaporated milk, and water to the pan. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Drain the can of whole kernel corn and add to the soup mixture.
- Stir in diced cooked ham and cook until heated through.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked bacon or even turkey bacon to reduce cooking time. If you don't have evaporated milk, regular milk or a dairy-free alternative can work, though the chowder may be slightly less creamy. For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or using a flavored broth instead of water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, such as Glamorous Green Beans, for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with Mini-Ham Puffs as an appetizer before the chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Speedy Potato Chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Speedy Potato Chowder contains roughly 616 calories, with 30g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (196% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), and potassium (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1096mg per serving (48% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the bacon and ham. Use vegetable broth instead of water and add more vegetables like carrots or celery for added texture and flavor. You can also include plant-based bacon for a smoky flavor without meat.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the chowder while it's cooking. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top just before serving for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the leftover chowder?
Yes, Speedy Potato Chowder can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of milk for creaminess.
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).