Ham and Potato Chowder
Ham and Potato Chowder Recipe: A Comforting Slow Cooker Delight
If you’re searching for a warm, hearty meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table, look no further than this Ham and Potato Chowder. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need an easy slow cooker recipe, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe that satisfies every craving.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Potato Chowder:
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like potatoes, ham, carrots, and corn, this chowder is easy to whip up with minimal effort.
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Let the slow cooker do all the work! It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy days.
- Hearty and Healthy: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Ham, diced
- 4 medium Potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups Corn, drained
- 6-8 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 cups Chicken Stock, reduced sodium
- 1 tsp Garlic, minced
- 1 small Onion, diced
- ⅛ tsp Thyme, dried
- ½ tsp Basil, dried
- Salt & Pepper, to taste
- 2 cups Milk
- 4 tbsp Cornstarch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by dicing the ham, potatoes, carrots, and onion. Drain the corn if using canned.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Place the ham, potatoes, corn, carrots, chicken stock, garlic, onion, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Stir everything together.
- Cook:
- Set the slow cooker to high and cook for 4-6 hours, or set it to low and cook for 8-10 hours. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Thicken the Chowder: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of the milk and all the cornstarch until smooth with no clumps. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker, followed by the remaining milk. Stir well to combine.
- Finish Cooking: Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the chowder has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Ham and Potato Chowder:
- Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover holiday ham. Smoked ham adds an extra depth of flavor.
- Make It Creamier: For a richer chowder, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add celery, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I freeze Ham and Potato Chowder? Yes! Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.
Can I make this on the stovetop? Absolutely. Sauté the onion, garlic, and carrots in a large pot until softened. Add the potatoes, ham, corn, chicken stock, and seasonings. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then add the milk-cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure that your cornstarch and chicken stock are certified gluten-free.
Perfect Pairings:
- Bread: Serve with crusty French bread or warm garlic bread for dipping.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chowder.
- Dessert: End the meal with a comforting dessert like these simple and delicious apple cinnamon rolls or a homemade apple pie.
Final Thoughts:
This Ham and Potato Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of creamy texture and hearty ingredients. With its simple preparation and satisfying flavors, it’s an ideal recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this chowder is a winner every time.
Ready to give it a try? Bookmark this recipe and share it with friends and family. Let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
P.S. Please check my Facebook page Joyful Little Things, or my Pinterest page Joyful Little Things for more recipes.
Ham and Potato Chowder
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 cups Ham Diced
- 4 medium Potatoes Peeled and Diced
- 2 cups Corn Drained
- 6-8 medium Carrots Peeled and Diced
- 4 cups Chicken Stock Reduced Sodium
- 1 tsp Garlic minced
- 1 small Onion Diced
- ⅛ tsp Thyme dried
- ½ tsp Basil dried
- 1 Salt & Pepper
- 2 cups Milk
- 4 tbsp Corn Starch
Instructions
- Put everything EXCEPT the milk and cornstarch into the slow cooker.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on high to 4-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours until the potatoes are fork tender.
- In a small bowl add a ½ cup of the milk and all of the cornstarch. Mix until there are not clumps and it is smooth. Pour into the slow cooker. Add the remaining milk to the slow cooker. Stir.
- Cover and cook about 20-30 more minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Serve immediately.
