Imagine a hearty, creamy soup that practically makes itself while you go about your day. With our Ultimate Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder, that dream becomes a delicious reality. This “set-it-and-forget-it” recipe allows you to simply toss all your ingredients into the slow cooker, then return home to a perfectly prepared, comforting meal. For an extra touch of indulgence, don’t forget to top each serving with crispy bacon and melted cheese!
Ultimate Creamy, Thick, and Filling Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
In the realm of comforting, meal-in-a-bowl dishes, few can rival the sheer satisfaction of a perfectly made chowder. This Ham and Potato Corn Chowder isn’t just a soup; it’s a complete, soul-warming meal designed for ease and flavor. If your quest is for a simple yet profoundly satisfying dish that feeds the whole family and requires minimal fuss, look no further. This recipe masterfully combines tender chunks of ham, soft potatoes, and sweet corn in a rich, velvety broth that truly hits all the right notes. Serve it alongside a crisp side salad or a generous slice of crusty bread, and you’ve got a dinner spread that feels gourmet without the effort. The magic truly lies in the ham, which infuses the entire chowder with a depth of smoky, savory flavor, making every spoonful incredibly creamy and utterly delicious.
Why This Slow Cooker Ham Chowder is a Family Favorite
There are countless reasons why this particular Ham and Potato Corn Chowder recipe earns its place as a staple in our rotation, and soon, it will be in yours too. Firstly, the convenience factor is unparalleled. For busy individuals or families, the slow cooker is a culinary lifesaver. This recipe embodies that spirit, allowing you to prepare the ingredients in the morning and return home to a fragrant, ready-to-eat dinner. Secondly, its hearty nature means it’s incredibly filling. Packed with protein from the ham and carbohydrates from the potatoes, it’s a complete meal that will keep everyone satisfied. Beyond convenience, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The combination of savory ham, sweet corn, tender potatoes, and aromatic vegetables simmered slowly creates a complex yet harmonious taste that screams comfort. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly evenings or any time you crave a little culinary coziness. Plus, it’s an excellent way to utilize leftover ham from holiday meals, transforming it into something new and exciting.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
While this recipe is inherently simple, a few tips can elevate your chowder from great to absolutely extraordinary. Following these suggestions will ensure a smooth cooking process and a deliciously satisfying result every time:
- Prep Ahead for Ultimate Convenience: The most “time-consuming” part of preparing this chowder is hands down the chopping of the vegetables. To truly embrace the “set-it-and-forget-it” mantra, consider dicing your potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In the morning, all you’ll need to do is dump everything into your crock pot before you head out the door. This little trick saves precious minutes during hectic mornings.
- Leverage Your Digital Slow Cooker: If you’re fortunate enough to own a digital slow cooker, take full advantage of its features. Set it to cook on low for 8 hours, and once that time is up, many models will automatically switch to a “keep warm” setting. This means your chowder will be perfectly cooked and maintained at an ideal serving temperature, waiting patiently until you arrive home, without overcooking.
- Personalize Your Veggies: This chowder recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t feel confined to the exact vegetable list. If you’re not a fan of corn, feel free to omit it or swap it for another favorite like peas or green beans. Similarly, while ham provides amazing flavor, you could experiment with other cooked proteins like shredded chicken or turkey for a different twist. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach stirred in at the end can add extra nutrition and color.
- Enhance Flavor with Ham Choice: For the best flavor, use a good quality ham, especially if you have leftover holiday ham. A smoked ham will impart an even deeper, richer taste to the chowder. If using deli ham, opt for a thicker-cut variety.
- Achieving Perfect Thickness: The instant mashed potato flakes are key to getting that classic thick, creamy chowder consistency. Remember to add them gradually at the end. Starting with one cup and adding more as needed ensures you reach your preferred thickness without overdoing it. The chowder will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
- Don’t Skip the Final Seasoning: While the ham and broth provide a base of flavor, a final taste test and adjustment with salt and pepper before serving are crucial. This step allows you to balance all the flavors perfectly.
Key Ingredients for a Superb Ham and Potato Chowder
Every great recipe begins with quality ingredients. For this Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder, simplicity and flavor are paramount. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:
- Red Potatoes: These potatoes hold their shape well during the long cooking process, providing a delightful texture without becoming mushy. Their thin skin means no peeling is necessary, saving you precious prep time.
- Onion, Carrots, and Celery (Mirepoix): This classic aromatic trio forms the flavor foundation for many great soups and stews. They slowly release their sweet and savory notes into the broth, building a complex taste profile.
- Garlic: A few minced cloves of garlic add a pungent, earthy depth that complements the other vegetables and ham beautifully.
- Dried Thyme: This herb brings a subtle, earthy, and slightly minty note that pairs wonderfully with ham and potatoes.
- Diced Ham: The star of the show! Use pre-cooked ham, whether it’s leftover from a holiday feast or store-bought diced ham. It imparts a rich, salty, and smoky flavor that defines the chowder.
- Canned Corn (undrained): The corn adds a burst of sweetness and a lovely pop of texture. Using it undrained means you retain some of its natural liquid, contributing to the chowder’s overall body and flavor.
- Chicken Broth: The liquid base for our chowder. Opt for a low-sodium variety if you’re sensitive to salt, as ham can be quite salty on its own.
- Milk: Added towards the end of cooking, milk (whole milk or 2% works best) provides the creamy, luscious texture that is characteristic of a good chowder.
- Instant Mashed Potato Flakes: This might sound unconventional, but these flakes are a secret weapon for achieving a thick, velvety chowder without having to make a roux or cornstarch slurry. They dissolve quickly and seamlessly, absorbing excess liquid and adding body.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste, ensuring all the flavors are perfectly balanced.
How to Make Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing this savory chowder is incredibly straightforward, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. Follow these easy steps for a delicious, hands-off meal:
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Begin by thoroughly washing your red potatoes. Since they will be cooked for a long time, there’s no need to peel them; the skin adds nutrients and texture. Dice the potatoes into roughly 1/2-inch to 1-inch cubes. Next, finely dice the small onion, carrots (after peeling them), and celery stalks. Uniform dicing ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture throughout the chowder. Mince your garlic cloves.
Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker
Carefully place all of your diced vegetables (potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery) into the basin of your crock pot or slow cooker. Add the minced garlic, diced ham, and dried thyme. Pour in the undrained can of corn. Finally, pour the entire container of chicken broth over all the ingredients. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything, ensuring the vegetables are mostly submerged in the broth. This initial mix helps distribute the flavors evenly from the start.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Secure the lid on your slow cooker. Set the temperature to ‘low’ and allow the chowder to cook undisturbed for 8 to 10 hours. This long, slow cooking process is essential for softening the vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, and making the ham incredibly tender. If your slow cooker has a timer and a “keep warm” function, it will automatically switch to keep your chowder at the perfect serving temperature once the cooking cycle is complete.
Step 4: Add Milk for Creaminess
Once the initial cooking time is complete and the vegetables are tender, open the slow cooker and pour in two cups of milk. Stir gently to incorporate the milk into the hot chowder. This step introduces the luscious creaminess that makes chowder so inviting.
Step 5: Thicken with Potato Flakes
Now it’s time to achieve your desired chowder thickness. Start by stirring in one cup of instant mashed potato flakes. Replace the lid and let the chowder sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flakes to fully absorb the liquid and thicken. After 5 minutes, check the consistency. If you prefer a thicker chowder, slowly add in an additional half-cup or up to one more cup of potato flakes, stirring well after each addition and letting it sit briefly. Be mindful not to add too much too quickly, as the chowder will continue to thicken slightly as it stands and cools. Two cups is generally the maximum recommended for a perfectly thick consistency.
Step 6: Final Simmer and Seasoning
After reaching your desired thickness, allow the chowder to cook for an additional 20 minutes on the ‘low’ setting. This final simmer helps to fully meld the flavors after the milk and potato flakes have been added. Before serving, taste the chowder and season generously with salt and pepper as needed. The exact amount will depend on the saltiness of your ham and broth, so always taste and adjust. Then, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your homemade, comforting meal!
Serving Suggestions for Your Ham and Potato Chowder
This hearty chowder is substantial enough to be a meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a few simple accompaniments.
Serve it with some warm, crusty French bread or a basket of soft dinner rolls and butter for dipping. A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing would also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chowder. For a truly indulgent experience, consider these optional toppings:
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the hot chowder, adding a tangy, savory layer.
- Cooked & Crumbled Bacon: Crispy bacon bits provide a delightful crunch and an extra smoky flavor that perfectly complements the ham.
- Sliced Green Onion or Chives: A scattering of fresh green onions or chives adds a mild oniony bite and a vibrant pop of color.
- A Dollop of Sour Cream: For an added creamy tang, a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt can be a wonderful finishing touch.
Storage and Reheating Leftover Chowder
One of the best things about this Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying delicious leftovers. Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm portions on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out a bit, as chowder tends to thicken more as it cools.
For longer storage, this chowder also freezes well. Portion cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that potatoes can sometimes change texture slightly after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor of the chowder remains excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chowder
- Can I use different potatoes? Yes, while red potatoes are recommended for their ability to hold shape, you can use Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes. If using Russets, you might consider peeling them as their skins are thicker, and they tend to break down more, which could make the chowder thicker and less chunky.
- What if my chowder is too thin? If after adding the recommended amount of potato flakes and letting it sit, your chowder is still too thin, you can either add a little more potato flakes (slowly, as it thickens quickly) or create a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stir it into the simmering chowder until it reaches your desired thickness.
- What if my chowder is too thick? If your chowder becomes too thick, simply stir in additional milk or chicken broth, a quarter cup at a time, until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Can I use fresh corn instead of canned? Absolutely! If using fresh corn on the cob, cut the kernels off and add them at the same time as the canned corn. If using frozen corn, you can add it directly to the slow cooker without thawing.
- Is this recipe good for using up leftover ham? Yes, this recipe is absolutely fantastic for using up leftover ham from holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. It transforms the ham into a completely new and exciting dish.
CRAVING MORE SLOW COOKER RECIPES?
If you love the ease and deliciousness of this Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder, you’re in for a treat! The slow cooker is a versatile tool that can create an array of incredible, hearty meals with minimal effort. Explore more of our favorite slow cooker recipes:
- Crock Pot Ham Mac and Cheese
- Clam Chowder
- Sausage Corn Chowder
- Kielbasa Corn Chowder
- Crock Pot Turkey Corn Chowder
- Crock Pot Creamy Potato and Ham Soup
- Crock Pot Soup Beans & Ham
- Crock Pot Salisbury Steak
- Crock Pot Mississippi Pot Roast
- Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken
- Crock Pot Meatloaf
- Crock Pot Swedish Meatballs
- 10 Crock Pot Mississippi Recipes
Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder Recipe Card
Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder
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Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 1.5 pound bag little potatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 ounces ham diced
- 1 (15.25 ounces) can corn (undrained)
- 1 (32 ounces) container chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1-2 cups instant mashed potato flakes
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Dice potatoes, onion, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic.
- Place all diced veggies, minced garlic, diced ham, dried thyme, undrained can of corn, and chicken broth into the crock pot (slow cooker). Stir to combine.
- Cover with a lid and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
- After cooking, pour in two cups of milk and stir.
- To thicken the chowder, add 1-2 cups of instant mashed potato flakes. Start with one cup, stir well, cover with a lid, and let sit for 5 minutes. If it’s not thick enough for your preference, slowly add in more flakes, stirring after each addition. Do not exceed two cups, as the chowder will continue to thicken as it cooks and cools.
- Allow the chowder to cook for an additional 20 minutes on low. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your preference before serving.
Notes
Main Course
American
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Slow Cooker Meal
The Crock Pot Ham and Potato Corn Chowder is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy delicious, homemade comfort food without the usual kitchen stress. Its rich, creamy texture, combined with the savory depth of ham and the comforting goodness of potatoes and corn, makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight dinner, a way to use up holiday ham, or simply a hearty bowl of warmth on a cold day, this slow cooker chowder delivers every time. With its “set-it-and-forget-it” convenience and customizable nature, it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your crock pot, and prepare to savor a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat.