Cheesy Ham and Corn Chowder

Ingredients and Weight:

• 10 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups diced ham
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 2 cups diced celery
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 2 cups frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, bring chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add ham, onion, celery, potatoes, carrots, corn, and bell pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of the hot chicken broth to form a smooth sauce.
5. Bring sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Pour sauce into the pot with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes more, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and cheesy
• Hearty and filling
• Perfect for a cold winter day
• Kid-friendly

User Comments:

"This chowder is amazing! It's so creamy and cheesy, and the ham and corn add a nice sweetness."

"I love how easy this recipe is to make. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner."

"This chowder is a crowd-pleaser. Everyone I've served it to has loved it."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have heavy cream, you can use milk instead.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham.
• To make the chowder ahead of time, simply prepare it as directed and then let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat over medium heat until warmed through.