“`html
If you’ve ever craved a comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out without feeling heavy, this Light Ham Potato Chowder Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender Yukon Gold potatoes, sweet corn, and lean ham in a creamy yet light broth, this chowder strikes the perfect balance between hearty and wholesome. It’s a dish that invites cozy evenings and brings a satisfying burst of flavor with every spoonful, all while keeping things light and fresh. You’re going to love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe depends on a few simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in texture and taste. From the velvety potatoes to the sweet crunch of corn and the smoky depth of lean ham, every component is essential.
- Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture holds up beautifully during cooking and adds a rich base.
- Celery: Provides a subtle crunch and a fresh, slightly peppery flavor to balance the creaminess.
- Sweet corn kernels: Adds natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color that brightens the chowder.
- Onion: The aromatic foundation that infuses the broth with savory depth.
- Garlic: Offers a warm, fragrant boost that elevates the entire dish.
- Lean cooked ham: Delivers smoky, salty undertones without adding heaviness.
- Low-fat milk: Keeps the chowder creamy but light, perfect for a guilt-free meal.
- Half-and-half or light cream: Natural richness that rounds out the flavors without overwhelming.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the comforting, savory liquid base while controlling saltiness.
- Olive oil: For sautéing—adds a mild fruitiness and helps meld flavors.
- Cornstarch (optional): Great for thickening if you prefer your chowder a little heartier.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony.
- Dried thyme: A subtle herbaceous note that complements ham and potatoes beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a burst of green color for garnish and finishing touch.
How to Make Light Ham Potato Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and diced celery, sautéing them gently for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base that infuses every spoonful of chowder with depth and warmth.
Step 2: Build Flavor Foundation
Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Let them cook together for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic’s aroma to awaken and the ham to release its smoky notes. This combination sets the delicious tone for the dish.
Step 3: Simmer Base Ingredients
Now it’s time to add the Yukon Gold potatoes, sweet corn kernels, dried thyme, and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. The potatoes will soften perfectly while flavors meld into a comforting broth. This simmering step is where the chowder’s heart develops.
Step 4: Thicken Broth (Optional)
If you enjoy a slightly thicker chowder, whisk the cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the pot. Simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the broth to thicken just enough without losing its lightness.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the low-fat milk and half-and-half or light cream. Warm the chowder slowly, making sure it does not reach a boil to keep the dairy silky and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, balancing richness and brightness.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Finally, stir in the freshly chopped parsley, adding a refreshing herbal note. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with additional parsley if you like an extra touch of color and flavor. The result is a beautiful, inviting bowl ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Light Ham Potato Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley on top not only brightens the appearance but also offers a crisp contrast to the creamy texture. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a small drizzle of olive oil can also enhance each spoonful with subtle layers of complexity.
Side Dishes
This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread or a warm baguette, perfect for dipping into the rich broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the meal by adding a refreshing bite alongside the chowder’s comforting warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the chowder in small bread bowls or rustic mugs. Garnish with crispy bacon bits or shredded sharp cheddar for extra texture and flavor contrast. Even a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky undertone that complements the ham beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Light Ham Potato Chowder Recipe leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just allow it to cool before covering, which helps maintain the freshness and flavor for your next comforting meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this chowder, but because of the dairy, it’s best to do so before adding milk and cream. Freeze the broth, potatoes, ham, and veggies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and stirring in fresh dairy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chowder gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk or broth if it has thickened too much, and avoid boiling to keep the texture smooth and silky.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, Russets or red potatoes can be substituted. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the firmness of the potato.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace milk and cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep the broth flavorful and consider using a dairy-free thickener like arrowroot powder if you want a creamier consistency.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color. Just keep in mind that adding too many dense vegetables might alter the chowder’s signature light texture.
How long does it take to make this chowder?
The entire process takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic choice for a wholesome meal that doesn’t demand too much time in the kitchen.
Can I use leftover ham from a holiday meal?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham, especially from holidays. Just ensure it’s lean and diced evenly so it melds smoothly into the chowder’s flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Light Ham Potato Chowder Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals whenever I crave something cozy yet light. It checks all the boxes by offering soul-soothing warmth without heaviness, making it an all-around winner. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an easy weekend indulgence, it’s guaranteed to comfort and delight every time.
“`
Print
Light Ham Potato Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Light Ham Potato Chowder is a comforting, creamy soup made with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, lean ham, sweet corn, and fresh aromatics. It’s a delicious and healthier take on traditional chowder, using low-fat milk and light cream to keep it light yet flavorful. Perfect for a cozy meal that satisfies without heaviness.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup frozen or fresh sweet corn kernels
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat
- 1 cup lean cooked ham, diced
Dairy
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup half-and-half or light cream
Liquids & Others
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, optional for thickening
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and diced celery, then sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and aromatic.
- Build flavor foundation: Stir in the minced garlic and diced lean cooked ham; cook for an additional 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the ham is heated through.
- Simmer base ingredients: Add the peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes, sweet corn kernels, dried thyme, and low-sodium chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Thicken broth: (Optional) In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering pot and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the broth to thicken slightly.
- Finish with cream: Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the low-fat milk and half-and-half or light cream. Heat the chowder without bringing it to a boil. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
- Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this light and flavorful ham potato chowder.
Notes
- Using low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt content for a healthier dish.
- The cornstarch is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker chowder consistency.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
- This chowder reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can substitute half-and-half with light cream or additional low-fat milk depending on your preference for richness.
