Cheesy Ham Chowder - knedir Recipes

This Cheesy Ham Chowder is the epitome of comfort food, with creamy, velvety soup that’s packed with hearty potatoes, tender ham, and melted cheddar cheese. The aroma of the sautéed onions and garlic fills the air as you prepare this delicious dish, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Perfect for chilly evenings, this chowder is a satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. You can even make it ahead of time to let the flavors meld together. Its richness, combined with the savory ham and cheese, will make it a family favorite and a go-to recipe during cold weather.

Full Recipe:

2 cups cubed cooked ham
4 cups chicken broth
3 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup carrots, diced
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in butter over medium heat until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for another 2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until smooth.
Add potatoes, carrots, and ham to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes and carrots are tender.
Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4-6 servings

History and Origin

While soups and chowders have a long and rich history in many cultures, the origins of Cheesy Ham Chowder specifically can be traced back to the classic American comfort foods, where hearty soups made from leftover meats (like ham) were common. Ham chowders, in particular, became popular in New England, where both fresh and smoked ham were frequently used to add depth to simple soups.

In the early 1900s, the practice of using bones and scraps from a ham joint to create broths and stews was widespread, as it was an economical way to feed a large family. The idea of adding cheese to chowder is a more modern twist, likely emerging in the mid-20th century when processed cheese products, such as Velveeta, gained popularity in home kitchens. As convenience foods became more prominent, the idea of turning a savory, hearty ham-based soup into a creamy, cheesy delight became an easy, yet indulgent, solution for busy home cooks.

Today, Cheesy Ham Chowder is often associated with cold-weather comfort foods. It has a special place in many American households as a staple during the fall and winter months, making it perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm, filling, and easy to make.

Variations and Adaptations

While the base ingredients of Cheesy Ham Chowder remain relatively consistent, there are many variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few common twists on the classic:

Vegetable Variations: Many recipes for Cheesy Ham Chowder include a variety of vegetables to add texture, color, and nutritional value. Common additions include corn, celery, leeks, and peas. Each of these ingredients adds a new flavor profile to the dish, enhancing its overall heartiness.
Spicy Ham Chowder: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños can bring a zesty kick to the chowder. The combination of cheese and spice is especially enjoyable for those who love bold, adventurous flavors.
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Chowder: If you’re looking to make this recipe lower in carbs, try substituting the potatoes with cauliflower. This change gives the chowder a similar texture without the starch, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Gluten-Free Option: While traditional chowders often use flour as a thickening agent, it’s easy to make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead. This ensures that those with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy the creamy richness of the soup.
Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is the most common cheese used in this chowder, other varieties such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can provide different flavors and textures. You can experiment with different cheeses to find the one that suits your tastes the best.

Nutritional Information

Cheesy Ham Chowder is a hearty dish that provides a good amount of nutrients, though it’s also rich in calories due to the creamy nature of the soup. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Calories: On average, one serving of Cheesy Ham Chowder contains around 320-350 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Protein: Ham is a great source of protein, and this chowder provides a solid serving, typically ranging from 15 to 20 grams per serving. This makes it a good choice for those looking to meet their protein needs in a filling meal.
Fat: The fat content can vary depending on the cheese and milk used, but it typically falls between 18 to 25 grams of fat per serving. The majority of this fat comes from the cheese and butter, making it a rich, comforting dish.
Carbohydrates: A serving of Cheesy Ham Chowder typically contains 20 to 30 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the potatoes. If you’re looking to reduce the carb count, you can opt for a lower-carb vegetable like cauliflower.
Fiber: Depending on the amount of vegetables included, the chowder may provide 2-4 grams of fiber per serving. Adding extra veggies like peas, carrots, and celery can boost the fiber content.
Vitamins and Minerals: This soup is a good source of vitamins A and C (from the carrots and potatoes), as well as calcium and iron (from the cheese and ham). The dish also contains moderate levels of potassium, which helps balance fluid levels and maintain healthy blood pressure.

While Cheesy Ham Chowder is indulgent, it also contains beneficial nutrients that support overall health. It’s important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cheesy Ham Chowder is a comforting and filling dish on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. Here are a few creative serving ideas:

Crusty Bread: A thick slice of sourdough, a baguette, or a warm dinner roll is perfect for dipping into the creamy chowder. The bread soaks up the soup, adding a satisfying texture and flavor contrast.
Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great contrast to the richness of the chowder. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemony dressing for balance.
Grilled Cheese: For the ultimate comfort food pairing, serve the chowder alongside a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese and toasted bread perfectly complement the creamy soup.
Pickled Vegetables: For a bit of acidity and crunch, try serving the chowder with a side of pickled vegetables, such as pickles or pickled red onions. The acidity cuts through the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing contrast.
Wine Pairing: For a wine pairing, a medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc works well with the richness of the chowder. If you prefer red wine, try a light Pinot Noir for a gentle contrast.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: While potatoes are the main starch in this soup, overcooking them can cause them to break apart and become mushy. Be sure to check for doneness when they are fork-tender, and avoid cooking them too long once they’re added to the soup.
Use Fresh Ham: While using leftover ham is common, freshly cooked ham adds a deeper flavor to the chowder. If you don’t have leftover ham, consider roasting a small ham steak for a more intense flavor.
Stir Constantly While Making the Roux: The roux (butter and flour mixture) is what thickens the soup. Make sure to stir constantly when cooking the roux to avoid any lumps. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
Add the Cheese Slowly: When incorporating the cheese into the soup, do so slowly and in batches. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly and doesn’t become stringy or clumpy.

Potential Health Benefits

Despite being a rich and indulgent dish, Cheesy Ham Chowder does offer a few health benefits when prepared with wholesome ingredients. Ham provides protein and essential vitamins like B12, which supports energy levels and overall body function. Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, while carrots provide beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports eye health. The cheese in the chowder, while high in fat, also delivers calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

If you opt for healthier adaptations—such as using cauliflower in place of potatoes, or opting for a lower-fat cheese—you can reduce the overall calorie and fat content while still enjoying a creamy, comforting meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ham Chowder is a dish that offers the perfect balance of richness and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter’s day or serving it for a family gathering, its creamy texture and hearty ingredients are sure to satisfy. By experimenting with different variations and pairing it with delicious sides, you can make this chowder your own. It’s easy to see why this dish has remained a beloved comfort food for generations. If you haven’t already, give it a try—you won’t regret it!