Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder is one of those dishes that warms your soul and fills your heart with joy. This rich and hearty chowder combines tender ham, creamy cheeses, and comforting potatoes into a bowl of deliciousness that is perfect for chilly nights. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create this delightful soup that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this creamy ham chowder recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

This creamy ham chowder recipe is not just your average soup. Here are six reasons why you’ll love it:

Rich flavors from melted cheese and savory ham.
Hearty and filling, making it perfect for dinner.
Easy to prepare with minimal cooking skills required.
Comforting and warming, especially on cold days.
Perfectly pairs with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Versatile enough to add your favorite vegetables.

This hearty cheesy ham chowder not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a cozy atmosphere to your home, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or a quiet night in.

Ingredients for Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil for sautéing
1 medium Onion diced
2 cloves Garlic minced
2 medium Carrots peeled and chopped
2 stalks Celery chopped
3 medium Potatoes peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
4 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth
2 cups Diced Ham preferably cooked or leftover ham
1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
½ cup Gruyère Cheese shredded (optional for added creaminess)
1 cup Milk for extra creaminess, use whole milk or heavy cream
2 Bay Leaves
Salt and Pepper to taste
Fresh Parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the ham into small cubes, peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, chop the carrots, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic. Grate the cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese if using.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Add the Ham and Cheese: Once the potatoes are tender, add the diced ham to the pot and stir. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese, stirring constantly to melt the cheese smoothly into the chowder. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a bit of milk or heavy cream at this point.
Step 5: Simmer and Season: Allow the chowder to simmer for another 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chowder into bowls, and optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Keep these in mind:

Use leftover ham for extra flavor and convenience.
For a gluten-free creamy ham chowder, ensure your broth and cheeses are gluten-free.
Adjust the thickness of the chowder by adding more or less milk or broth.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

For the best experience, serve this ham and cheese soup with:

Warm crusty bread for dipping.
A fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Crackers or breadsticks for added crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This chowder also makes a great meal prep option for busy weeknights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder

What is ham chowder?

Ham chowder is a creamy soup that features ham as a primary ingredient, often combined with potatoes, vegetables, and cheese. It’s a comforting dish that many enjoy, especially during colder months.

Can I make Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder ahead of time?

Yes! This easy creamy ham soup recipe can be made ahead of time. Just allow it to cool completely before storing it in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overcook the potatoes, as they can become mushy. Also, stir the cheese in slowly to prevent clumping, ensuring a smooth and creamy chowder.

Variations of Creamy Cheesy Ham Chowder You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Add frozen corn for sweetness and texture.
Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrients.
Substitute the ham with turkey for a lighter option.
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

For more delicious recipes, check out Pumpkin Cobbler or Chewy Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies. If you’re looking for a great side, try Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a perfect pairing!