This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender potatoes, smoky ham, and sweet corn in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a satisfying, homemade meal, this chowder is as easy to make as it is delicious.

Sautéed onions, carrots, and celery provide a flavorful base, while a touch of thyme adds a subtle herbaceous note. Thickened with a bit of flour and enriched with milk, the chowder achieves the perfect creamy consistency. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy the combination of hearty potatoes, savory ham, and the natural sweetness of corn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is the definition of cozy comfort food. Creamy, hearty, and brimming with tender potatoes, sweet corn, and savory ham, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a warm, satisfying meal. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and customizable to suit your taste. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping or a crisp side salad for balance, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

Key Ingredients

Oil or Butter: Essential for sautéing the vegetables, adding richness and helping to develop their natural sweetness. Butter gives a more indulgent flavor, while oil keeps things light.

Onion, Carrots, and Celery: This aromatic trio is the flavorful backbone of many soups. They provide a savory, slightly sweet base that perfectly complements the creamy chowder.

Garlic and Thyme: Garlic adds depth and savoriness, while thyme brings a hint of earthy, herby goodness that ties all the flavors together.

Flour: Helps thicken the soup, giving it that luscious, creamy consistency. Use rice flour for a gluten-free version.

Broth (Ham or Chicken): A savory liquid base that carries the flavors of the chowder. Ham broth intensifies the smoky, meaty notes, while chicken broth provides a milder, versatile option.

Milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the chowder. Use whole milk for the best texture, but lower-fat options work too.

Potatoes: The star of the dish! Tender, diced potatoes add heartiness and soak up the creamy broth beautifully. Peel them for a smoother texture or leave the skins on for added nutrients.

Ham: Diced ham brings savory, smoky flavors and hearty protein to the soup. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or add substance to the dish.

Corn: Sweet, juicy kernels add pops of flavor and balance the saltiness of the ham. Use fresh, canned, or frozen corn based on what’s available.

Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.

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Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-By-Step Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 8–10 minutes.

Build the Base:
Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking until aromatic, about 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring frequently, until the flour turns lightly golden, approximately 2–3 minutes.

Incorporate Liquids and Potatoes:
Gradually pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Stir in the milk, followed by the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Finish with Ham and Corn:
Add the diced ham and corn to the saucepan, stirring until evenly combined. Cook until heated through, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes the meal even more memorable. Try these ideas:

Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.
Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder.
Cheese Biscuits: Add an extra touch of indulgence with cheddar biscuits on the side.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus make a great veggie companion.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating Leftovers

Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the milk from curdling.

Freezing Tips

To freeze, skip adding the milk before freezing. Store the cooled chowder (without milk) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat, and stir in the milk during reheating for a fresh, creamy texture.

Variations

Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy chowder.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth for a meat-free version. You can add diced tofu or roasted mushrooms for additional protein.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy spin.
Seafood Style: Replace ham with diced cooked shrimp, crab meat, or clams for a seafood-inspired chowder.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, rosemary, or dill to change up the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is a heartwarming, easy-to-make dish that brings big flavors to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for a casual gathering, this recipe delivers. It’s creamy, savory, and endlessly customizable to suit your preferences. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s as cozy as it is delicious.