Comforting Ham Chowder Soup Recipe

ByHuma Lunch

Few dishes evoke the warmth of home quite like a comforting bowl of soup, and this ham chowder stands as a perfect example. Creamy, hearty, and layered with rustic flavors, it transforms simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying experience. Each spoonful combines tender vegetables, savory ham, and a velvety broth, delivering a sense of nourishment and comfort. Designed to feel both timeless and refined, this chowder is ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced cooked ham
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk or half and half
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Ham Chowder Soup?

Begin by building a fragrant base that will define the flavor of the chowder. Melt the butter in a large soup pot, then stir in the onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook gently until the vegetables soften and release their natural aromas, creating a flavorful foundation for the soup. The careful layering at this stage ensures every bite carries depth and warmth.

Next, integrate the diced ham and cubed potatoes, allowing them to absorb the aromatic butter mixture. Sprinkle in the flour evenly and stir thoroughly to form a gentle roux, which will lend the chowder its signature creamy texture. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps, and bring to a simmer until the potatoes are tender. Finally, add the milk or half and half, season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook until silky. Corn can be stirred in for added sweetness, and the chowder is ready to be served garnished with fresh parsley.

Cooking Time

This hearty chowder takes approximately thirty-five to forty minutes from start to finish. The majority of this time is spent allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to cook to a tender perfection, ensuring a rich and satisfying consistency.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of this ham chowder contains roughly 250 to 300 calories, offering a balanced blend of protein from ham, carbohydrates from potatoes and vegetables, and moderate healthy fats from butter and milk. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, particularly from the carrots and celery, making it a nourishing choice for any meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store cooled chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, warm gently over low heat while stirring to maintain the creamy texture. The chowder can also be frozen for up to two months, although slight changes in dairy consistency may occur upon thawing.

Suggestions and Variations

For enhanced savoriness, crispy bacon can be added as a topping, or shredded cheddar can be stirred in for a richer, creamier variation. Half of the potatoes may be substituted with cauliflower for a lighter version, and the soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread to complement the creamy broth. Adding herbs or a touch of vanilla can also provide subtle flavor nuances for experimental twists.

Seasonal Relevance

This ham chowder is particularly suited for colder months when warm, nourishing meals are most comforting. It also shines in early spring or late fall when root vegetables are at their peak, offering a cozy, wholesome experience. Its timeless appeal makes it equally suitable for casual weeknight dinners or more formal, intimate gatherings.

Comforting Ham Chowder Soup Recipe
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Comforting Ham Chowder Soup Recipe

Recipe by Huma
Servings

4-6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Calories

350

kcal
Total time

45

minutes

This Comforting Ham Chowder Soup is a hearty and flavourful bowl perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender potatoes, smoky ham, sweet corn, and a creamy broth, it’s an easy to make meal that warms both body and soul.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups diced cooked ham

  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1 cup carrots, sliced

  • 1 cup celery, chopped

  • 1 cup onion, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 4 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups whole milk or half and half

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

  • Sauté Vegetables
  • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
  • Add Potatoes, Ham, and Broth
  • Stir in potatoes, diced ham, corn, and thyme. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  • Make Creamy Base
  • In a small bowl, whisk flour into milk or cream until smooth. Slowly stir into soup and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
  • Season and Serve
  • Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • For extra richness, use half and half instead of milk.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze any extra soup in individual portions for easy future meals.
FAQs

Can I use leftover holiday ham for this recipe
Yes leftover ham works wonderfully and often adds even more flavor due to prior seasoning.

Can I make this chowder without dairy
You can substitute dairy with unsweetened coconut milk or a creamy plant based alternative though the flavour profile will change slightly.

Why is my chowder too thin
It may need additional simmering or a touch more flour in the roux. Allow patience and slow heat to achieve the right consistency.

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