HAM & CHEESE CHOWDER

Ham & Cheese Chowder image

Chowder makes chilly days instantly cozier. This easy one, with cheddar, potatoes and smoky ham, warms you up from head to toe. -Mandy Beerman, Houstonia, MO

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

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Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds potatoes (about 3 medium), peeled and diced
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3-1/2 cups whole milk
4 ounces process cheese (Velveeta), cubed (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1-1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
Minced chives and coarsely ground pepper, optional

Steps:

Place potatoes and baking soda in a large saucepan. Add water to cover; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, until potatoes are tender, 6-8 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup potato water., In same pan, heat butter over medium heat; saute onion until tender, 2-4 minutes. Stir in flour until blended; cook and stir 2 minutes. Gradually stir in milk and reserved potato water. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly; cook and stir until thickened, 1-2 minutes., Stir in cheeses until melted. Stir in ham and potatoes; heat through. If desired, sprinkle with chives and pepper.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 366 calories, Fat 20g fat (11g saturated fat), Cholesterol 78mg cholesterol, Sodium 888mg sodium, Carbohydrate 28g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 19g protein.