Welcome to a culinary adventure that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds! Imagine a creamy, cheesy ham chowder bubbling away in your slow cooker, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the dinner table. This Slow Cooker Cheesy Ham Chowder is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave something hearty and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that serves six and leaves your family asking for seconds. Ready to discover the secret to this deliciously easy recipe? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the potatoes into small cubes, chop the onion, and dice the ham into bite-sized pieces. This will help ensure even cooking and a consistent texture in your chowder.
- In a slow cooker, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and diced ham. Stir them together gently to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth over the vegetables and ham. This will serve as the base for your chowder, providing flavor and moisture.
- Add the garlic powder to the slow cooker. This will infuse the chowder with a delicious garlic flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the ham may already add some saltiness.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
- After 6 hours of cooking, check the potatoes to ensure they are tender. If they are, proceed to the next step. If not, let them cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. This will add creaminess and a rich cheese flavor to your chowder.
- Cover the slow cooker again and let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the chowder to thicken slightly.
- After the final cooking time, give the chowder a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Cheesy Ham Chowder hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during busy days, consider prepping your ingredients the night before. Dice the potatoes, chop the onion, and cube the ham so everything is ready to go in the morning.
- Layering for Flavor: When adding ingredients to the slow cooker, layer them thoughtfully. Start with the potatoes, then the onions, and finally the ham on top. This helps ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chowder, reduce the amount of milk or add a bit more cheese. Alternatively, for a lighter version, use low-fat milk or a milk alternative.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your chowder by adding vegetables like corn, carrots, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
- Season to Taste: Remember to taste your chowder before serving. The saltiness of the ham can vary, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to achieve the perfect balance.
- Leftover Magic: This chowder makes fantastic leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your chowder’s presentation by garnishing with extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or even crispy bacon bits. It adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
