There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and if you’re craving something extra comforting, this Cheesy Ham Chowder is the answer!
Packed with hearty ham, creamy cheese, and tender vegetables, this chowder is a favorite among families.
Best of all, it’s easy to make, and you’ll have a bowl of comfort in no time!
This recipe will definitely be one of your go-to favorites!
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Ham Chowder
Making Cheesy Ham Chowder is simple with the right ingredients. Here’s a list of the essentials you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- Ham: You can use leftover ham from a previous meal, or buy pre-cooked ham cubes for convenience.
- Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and creamy cheeses like Gruyère or cream cheese gives the chowder its signature richness.
- Potatoes: Choose waxy potatoes, like Yukon Gold, for a creamy texture that holds up well in the soup.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery add flavor and crunch to the chowder, while garlic boosts the depth of taste.
- Broth: Use a good quality chicken or vegetable broth for the base. You can also use a combination of broth and milk or cream for a richer texture.
- Seasonings: Fresh thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper elevate the taste, while salt helps balance the flavors.
Tips for Selecting the Best Ingredients:
- For the best ham flavor, opt for a smoked or honey glazed ham.
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt.
- Choose high-quality broth or make your own to control the flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Ham Chowder
This Cheesy Ham Chowder recipe is simple to follow, even for beginner cooks! Here’s how to make it:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the ham into small, bite-sized cubes.
- Chop the vegetables: peel and dice the potatoes, chop the carrots, celery, and onion into small pieces, and mince the garlic.
- Grate the cheese (if using block cheese) for a smooth melt.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté until softened—about 5-7 minutes. This will enhance the flavor base of your chowder.
3. Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the broth and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes). Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes don’t stick to the bottom.
4. Add the Ham and Cheese
Once the potatoes are soft, add the diced ham and stir to combine. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly to ensure it melts evenly. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk at this stage.
5. Simmer and Season
Let the chowder simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Ham Chowder
While making Cheesy Ham Chowder is relatively straightforward, a few tips can help you elevate the dish to perfection:
- Thicken or Thin the Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to create a creamier texture. For a thinner chowder, add more broth or milk.
- Avoid Overcooking the Potatoes: Make sure to cook the potatoes just until they are tender, but not falling apart, to maintain a nice texture in the chowder.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is the most common choice, try mixing in some Gruyère, Swiss, or even Parmesan for a unique twist. The more cheese, the better!
- Substitutes for Dietary Preferences: For a gluten-free version, simply make sure to use certified gluten-free broth. For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.
Serving and Pairing Ideas for Cheesy Ham Chowder
To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing your Cheesy Ham Chowder with these serving ideas:
- Sides: A warm, crusty baguette or freshly baked cornbread is the perfect accompaniment for dipping into the soup. You could also serve a light, fresh salad on the side to balance the richness.
- Garnishes: Top your chowder with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Beverages: A light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea pairs well with the rich, creamy chowder.
Recipe FAQ’s
How can I make the chowder thicker?
To make the chowder thicker, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot, or use a blender to blend a portion of the soup before returning it to the pot.
Can I substitute the ham?
Absolutely! You can use cooked turkey, chicken, or even bacon if you prefer. Adjust the seasoning and cooking times accordingly.
Can I make this Cheesy Ham Chowder in advance?
Yes! This chowder stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a bit more broth or milk to restore its creamy texture.
Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil for sautéing
- 1 medium Onion diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 medium Carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks Celery chopped
- 3 medium Potatoes peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth
- 2 cups Diced Ham preferably cooked or leftover ham
- 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- ½ cup Gruyère Cheese shredded (optional for added creaminess)
- 1 cup Milk for extra creaminess, use whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 Bay Leaves
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the ham into small cubes.
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the carrots, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic.
- Grate the cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese (if using).
Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Add the Ham and Cheese
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the diced ham to the pot and stir.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese, stirring constantly to melt the cheese smoothly into the chowder. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a bit of milk or heavy cream at this point.
Simmer and Season
- Allow the chowder to simmer for another 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the chowder into bowls, and optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Notes
Tips for Selecting the Best Ingredients:
- For the best ham flavor, opt for a smoked or honey glazed ham.
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt.
- Choose high-quality broth or make your own to control the flavor.