Slow Cooked Ham and Potato Chowder

Slow Cooked Ham and Potato Chowder: A Busy Mom's Comfort Food

As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question of "What's for dinner?". That's why I rely on recipes that are both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare. This slow cooker ham and potato chowder is my absolute go-to for those hectic evenings.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It uses ingredients I usually have on hand, and the slow cooker does all the work! No more slaving over a hot stove after a long day. Just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinnertime, you have a hearty, comforting meal ready to go. The leftover ham from Easter or Christmas gets a glorious new life, transforming into a creamy, flavorful chowder that the whole family will devour. My kids, especially, love it. It's their favorite way to sneak in extra vegetables.

I love how versatile this chowder is. Sometimes, I add a splash of milk or cream at the end for extra richness. Other times, I'll throw in some leftover roasted vegetables for an added nutritional boost. It's adaptable to whatever I have in the fridge, making it the perfect weeknight solution. The potatoes stay perfectly tender yet maintain their shape. The creamy broth is the perfect complement to the savory ham. It’s a dish that is both satisfying and healthy, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner. The flavor is robust, but not overpowering and the texture is perfectly balanced.

Beyond the Dinner Table: This chowder isn't just limited to weeknight dinners. It also makes a fantastic brunch dish. I've served it at several gatherings, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. Served with a crusty bread or some cornbread, it's the ideal comfort food for a chilly morning. It's also easy to transport, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics. Simply pack it in a thermos and you're good to go!

Making it Your Own: One of the things I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add some diced carrots, celery, or even some spinach for a richer flavor and nutritional value. If you're not a fan of ham, you can easily substitute it with cooked chicken or even sausage. You can customize it to fit your family’s preferences and whatever ingredients you have readily available. This is a recipe that encourages creativity and allows you to explore your culinary skills while saving precious time and energy.

The Perfect Comfort Food: In the end, this slow cooker ham and potato chowder is more than just a recipe; it's a symbol of comfort, convenience, and deliciousness. It's a meal that brings my family together, nourishes their bodies, and warms their hearts. It's a dish that perfectly balances practicality and deliciousness, a skill that every busy mom appreciates.

So, if you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty meal, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed. And trust me, the cleanup is a breeze – another major bonus in the busy life of a working mom. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Whisk 3 cups warm water with chicken soup base in slow cooker until soup base has dissolved; stir in cream of chicken soup until almost smooth.
• Stir potatoes, ham, corn, yellow onion, and butter into the soup mixture.
• Place flour and 1/2 cup water into a small container with a lid and shake well to combine into a smooth mixture; stir flour mixture into soup. Mix in parsley, dill, and celery seed. Season soup with salt and black pepper.
• Cook chowder on High for 4 hours or Low for 8 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking.