Warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying, Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder is the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Tender chunks of ham, sweet corn, and soft potatoes slowly simmer together in a rich, creamy broth, creating a chowder that’s hearty, cozy, and incredibly easy to make. Thanks to the slow cooker, the flavors develop beautifully with minimal effort—perfect for busy days, cold evenings, or using up leftover ham.
This classic comfort soup is family-friendly, budget-conscious, and ideal for make-ahead meals.
Why Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder Is a Favorite
Set-It-and-Forget-It Comfort
Everything goes into the slow cooker, letting time do the work while you enjoy a flavorful, stress-free dinner.
Perfect for Real Life
- Great use for leftover ham
- Creamy, filling, and comforting
- Minimal prep, hands-off cooking
- Excellent leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked ham (diced) | 2–3 cups | Savory protein |
| Frozen or canned corn | 3 cups | Sweetness |
| Potatoes (peeled & diced) | 3 cups | Hearty texture |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | Flavor base |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Aromatics |
| Carrots (diced) | 1 cup | Color & sweetness |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks | Depth |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Soup base |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half | 1 cup | Creaminess |
| Milk | 1 cup | Balance |
| All-purpose flour or cornstarch | 3 tbsp | Thickener |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Richness |
| Thyme or Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Herbal note |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Fresh parsley | Optional | Garnish |
How to Make Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder
1. Add Ingredients to the Slow CookerAdd Everything to the Slow Cooker
Start by placing the diced ham, corn, potatoes, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into the slow cooker insert. Spread the ingredients out evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine and make sure the vegetables are mostly submerged in the liquid.
👉 Pro Tip: Ham is naturally salty, so start with a small amount of salt—you can always add more later.
2. Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors fully develop:
- LOW: 6–7 hours (best for deeper flavor)
- HIGH: 3–4 hours (faster, still delicious)
By the end of this step, the potatoes should be fork-tender, and the broth will be fragrant and flavorful.
👉 Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking—this releases heat and slows the process.
3. Thicken the Chowder
In a small bowl, whisk the flour (or cornstarch) with the milk until completely smooth and lump-free. This slurry is what thickens the chowder evenly.
Stir the mixture into the slow cooker along with the butter and cream, mixing well so everything is fully incorporated.
👉 Why this works: Adding the thickener at the end prevents it from breaking down during long cooking.
4. Finish Cooking
Cover the slow cooker again and switch to HIGH. Cook for an additional 20–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the chowder thickens into a creamy, velvety consistency.
The soup should coat the back of a spoon and look rich and smooth.
👉 Consistency Tip: If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
5. Taste and Serve
Taste the chowder and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot with crusty bread, rolls, or cornbread on the side.
Tips for the Best Ham and Corn Chowder
Pro Tips
- Use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for creaminess
- Leftover holiday ham works perfectly
- Add dairy at the end to prevent curdling
- Soup thickens as it cools
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding cream too early
- Over-salting (ham is already salty)
- Skipping the thickener step
Variations & Substitutions
Easy Customizations
- Add shredded cheddar cheese
- Stir in bacon bits for smoky flavor
- Use evaporated milk instead of cream
- Add red bell pepper for color
Lighter Options
- Use milk instead of cream
- Reduce butter
- Increase vegetables
What to Serve With Ham and Corn Chowder
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Cornbread
- Simple green salad
- Crackers or oyster crackers
Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze without dairy for best results. Add cream after reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder be made ahead of time?
Yes. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Is Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder very thick?
It’s creamy and hearty but easily adjusted with extra milk or broth.
Can I use fresh corn?
Absolutely. Cut kernels from the cob for the best flavor.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy, comforting meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, Slow-Cooker Ham and Corn Chowder is a perfect choice. Creamy, hearty, and packed with sweet corn and savory ham, this chowder is a timeless classic that fits perfectly into busy schedules and cozy nights alike.