Potato Corn Chowder

5 from 1 vote

Hearty potato and corn chowder is loaded with potatoes, veggies, cheddar cheese, and smoky ham. It's a cozy, family-friendly soup that’s easy to make on the stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker.

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Cook Time 52

Total Time 52

Servings people

Calories 460kcal

Author Lisa Bynum

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large yellow onion peeled and diced
3 carrots peeled and diced
2 celery ribs diced
3 cloves garlic minced
5 medium red-skinned potatoes cubed
6 cups chicken stock
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 cans (16 oz. each) whole kernel corn undrained
¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 green onion sliced, plus more for garnish
4 cups cooked diced ham
2 cups whole milk
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium high heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5 minutes.
Add garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
Add the potatoes, chicken stock, and cayenne pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer, covered, for 35 minutes.
Add whole kernel corn with its juice, Worcestershire, sliced green onions and diced ham.
Simmer for an additional 7 minutes, stirring frequently.
Remove the pot from the heat. Add the milk and cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve topped with additional green onions, if desired.

Video

Notes

Corn options – Use canned (with liquid), frozen, or fresh corn. If using frozen or fresh, add 1–1 ½ cups of extra chicken stock or milk to replace the liquid from canned corn.
Potatoes – Red potatoes hold their shape best, but Yukon Golds or Russets will also work (Russets break down more for a thicker chowder).
Make-ahead friendly – This chowder tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Reheating – Warm slowly over medium-low heat to prevent the milk and cheese from separating. Add extra stock or milk if it thickens too much.
Freezer tip – For best texture, freeze before adding the milk and cheese, then stir them in fresh when reheating.
Protein swaps – Leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even crispy bacon can be substituted for ham.
Customize the spice – Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference, or swap in smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick.

Nutrition