Can I make Cheesy Ham Chowder without dairy or meat?

Absolutely! For a dairy-free or vegan twist, swap out the milk for unsweetened oat or almond milk, and use plant-based butter instead of bacon drippings. Vegan cheddar shreds melt nicely in place of regular cheese. Replace the ham with smoked tofu or your favorite plant-based sausage for that savory flavor. You can skip the bacon or use coconut bacon for a smoky crunch. The end result will still be creamy, hearty, and comforting—just with a new personality.

What makes chowder different from regular potato soup?

Chowder is all about richness and texture. Unlike classic potato soup, which tends to be smooth and sometimes pureed, chowder is thickened (often with flour) and chunky. You’ll find a medley of vegetables and proteins—like ham, bacon, and corn—floating in a creamy base. It’s heartier than most soups, with a spoon-coating thickness and layers of flavor in every bite. Potato soup is cozy, but cheesy ham chowder is pure, stick-to-your-ribs comfort.

Is chowder the same as a broth-based soup?

Not quite! Broth-based soups are usually clear and light, highlighting the flavors of the broth and whatever you toss in. Cheesy Ham Chowder, on the other hand, is creamy and substantial, thickened with flour and loaded with cheese for a velvety finish. The milk and cheese create a luscious, opaque base that hugs the potatoes, ham, and veggies. If you’re craving something rich and filling, chowder wins every time.

What ingredients are essential for a classic Cheesy Ham Chowder?

The backbone of a great cheesy ham chowder includes diced bacon, onions, carrots, tender potatoes, and, of course, plenty of shredded cheddar cheese. Cooked ham brings a smoky, savory depth, while sweet corn adds pops of texture and flavor. Milk and flour give that signature creamy consistency, and a hint of chicken bouillon rounds everything out. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating a bowlful that’s comforting, cheesy, and irresistibly hearty.

Cheesy Ham Chowder Recipe: Creamy Comfort Food with Ham

Description

A cozy, creamy chowder loaded with turkey bacon, turkey bacon, cheddar, and hearty vegetables—pure comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale

10 slices turkey bacon, diced

1 large onion, chopped

1 cup carrot, diced

3 tablespoons flour

3 cups milk

1 1/2 cups water

1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained

2 teaspoons chicken bouillon

3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups cooked turkey bacon, chopped

2 1/2 cups potatoes, cubed

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven or large soup pot, cook diced turkey bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove turkey bacon and set aside. Drain excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.

2. Add chopped onion and diced carrots to the turkey bacon drippings. Sauté over medium heat until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat.

4. Gradually whisk in milk and water until smooth.

5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Cook for 2 minutes or until slightly thickened.

6. Add cubed potatoes, drained corn, chicken bouillon, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

7. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.

8. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and chopped turkey bacon. Heat gently until cheese is melted and chowder is creamy.

9. Return cooked turkey bacon to the pot and stir. Serve hot.

Notes

For a thicker chowder, simmer a few extra minutes after adding cheese.

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk.

Chowder tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 40
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 370 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 910 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 19 g
Cholesterol: 65 mg