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Welcome to Cozy Homemade Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

As the leaves change and the evening air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of chowder. This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is my go-to recipe for a cozy night in, reminding me of chilly evenings spent with loved ones, snuggled on the couch watching our favorite movies. The thick, creamy texture and smoky undertones of the turkey bacon mixed with the delectable sweetness of corn always seem to wrap me in a golden hug. It’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner for when you want something hearty without the fuss. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Simple steps make this dish a breeze to put together, perfect for a busy evening.
Creamy and Comforting: The luscious combination of ingredients creates a rich, soothing flavor that warms the soul.
Perfect for Leftovers: This chowder tastes even better the next day, making it a wonderful make-ahead meal.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, it’s sure to keep everyone smiling at the dinner table!
Versatile Ingredients: You can play with the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to your pantry.

Gather These Simple Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Ham and Potato Corn Chowder:

4 strips turkey bacon
1/2 medium onion, chopped
2 sticks celery, chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth or stock
1 cup heavy (or whipping) cream
2 cups frozen corn
1 pound smoked ham, chopped
2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Ham and Potato Corn Chowder

Let’s dive into the warm, inviting world of chowder-making together!

Slice the turkey bacon into small pieces (kitchen shears make this easy). In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 10 minutes.
While the bacon cooks, chop the onion, celery, potatoes, and ham.
Once the bacon is crisp, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot.
Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the flour and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to dissolve the flour and scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the cream, frozen corn, chopped ham, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), and most of the turkey bacon (reserve some for garnish). Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cover partially and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally as the soup thickens.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with the reserved turkey bacon before serving.

Fun Ways to Customize It

Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving adds a zesty, bright flavor.
Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicy sausage instead of ham.
Make It Extra Creamy: For an even richer chowder, stir in a few ounces of cream cheese before serving.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the turkey bacon and ham, and opt for vegetable broth along with additional veggies like carrots and bell peppers.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Advice: This chowder stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy.
Ingredient Swaps: Don’t hesitate to use leftover holiday ham or diced chicken in place of the smoked ham for a different twist.
Slicing Tricks: To make dicing potatoes easier, slice them in half, lay the flat side down, and then cut into half-moons for even cooking.
Storage Suggestions: If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Note that the chowder may thicken in the fridge; just add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out when reheating.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Carbohydrates: 32g
Sugar: 3g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 850mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This chowder tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Can I use different ingredients?
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or meats; this recipe is very adaptable!

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great reheated!

How long does it last?
In the fridge, this chowder can last up to 3 days. If you freeze it, aim to consume it within a month for best flavor.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder holds a special place in my heart as it brings both warmth and nourishment to my family gathering moments. Each spoonful is a reminder of joyful nights spent together, enveloped in homemade comfort. I encourage you to save this hearty recipe to your cozy meal board so you can easily whip it up whenever you crave that heartwarming goodness. Enjoy the flavors and the memories you create along the way!