Smoked Ham Potato Corn Chowder

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step helps build the foundation of flavor for your chowder.

Step 2: Add the Ham and Potatoes

Next, add the cubed smoked ham to the pot. Stir it around with the onions and garlic to allow the ham to release its smoky flavor into the mixture. After a couple of minutes, add the diced potatoes and give everything a good stir.

Step 3: Make the Base of the Soup

Sprinkle the flour over the ham, onions, garlic, and potatoes. Stir well to coat everything evenly. The flour will help thicken the chowder later. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Milk

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Once the broth is simmering, add the milk (or heavy cream) and continue to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Corn and Season

Add the corn and stir to combine. At this point, you’ll want to season the chowder with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. For an extra smoky kick, add the smoked paprika (optional but highly recommended). Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the soup has thickened slightly and the potatoes are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a creamier chowder, you can stir in shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) for a richer texture. Stir until the cheese melts into the soup.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the Smoked Ham Potato Corn Chowder into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The garnish adds a pop of color and a bit of freshness that balances the richness of the soup.

Why You’ll Love Smoked Ham Potato Corn Chowder:

• Comfort in a bowl: This chowder is the epitome of comfort food, with a rich and creamy texture that satisfies with every spoonful. The combination of smoked ham, potatoes, and corn is a classic flavor profile that everyone loves.
• Smoky flavor: The smoked ham adds a depth of flavor that really sets this chowder apart from other potato or corn chowders. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates this dish into something truly special.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with protein from the ham, starchy potatoes, and fiber-rich corn, this chowder is a complete meal that will leave you feeling full and content.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste. Swap out the smoked ham for bacon, use a different type of cheese, or make it even heartier by adding extra vegetables like carrots or celery.
• Perfect for leftovers: This chowder keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s a great option for meal prep, and you can easily reheat it for a quick and delicious meal.

Tips for the Best Smoked Ham Potato Corn Chowder:

• Use leftover ham: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday ham or any ham from a previous meal. The smokier the ham, the better the chowder will taste.
• Cook the potatoes until tender: The potatoes are the heart of this chowder, so be sure to cook them until they’re fork-tender. If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes as they cook to create a creamier consistency.
• Balance the creaminess: If you’re watching your calorie intake, feel free to use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The chowder will still be creamy and delicious, just with a lighter touch.
• Add a little heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chowder to give it a subtle kick.
• Freeze leftovers: This chowder freezes wonderfully, so if you have extra, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it on the stovetop.

Final Thoughts

Smoked Ham Potato Corn Chowder is the perfect soup for colder weather, family dinners, or any occasion where you want a warm, comforting meal. The smoky richness of the ham, combined with the sweet corn and tender potatoes, creates a dish that’s satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Whether you’re making it on a busy weeknight or preparing it for a weekend gathering, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, and you’ve got the perfect meal that everyone will love.

So next time you’re craving something hearty and comforting, look no further than this Smoked Ham Potato Corn Chowder. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those chilly days when you need something quick, delicious, and soul-satisfying. Enjoy!