Creamy Dijon Ham and Swiss Chowder Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can briefly sear the ham in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker, though this is optional. Adding a garnish of fresh chives or shredded Swiss cheese at the moment of serving can provide a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy base of the chowder, elevating the visual appeal and adding a nice textural element to each spoonful.

If you prefer a thinner soup, stir in a small amount of warm chicken or vegetable stock until you reach your desired consistency.

Conversely, if you want a thicker chowder, you can mash a few of the cooked potato cubes against the side of the slow cooker; the released starch will naturally thicken the liquid without the need for additional flour or heavy thickeners.

Variations

• Vegetable Medley: Add a cup of frozen peas or diced carrots during the last hour of cooking for extra color and nutrition. These vegetables add a sweet pop of flavor that complements the savory ham and Dijon broth perfectly.
• Smoky Twist: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the broth. This variation provides a deeper, campfire-inspired flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with the salty, savory notes of the ham.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Not recommended, as the creamy texture and potatoes may change consistency when frozen.

Reheat

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout.

Allow the leftover chowder to cool for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When storing, ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the soup from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Always reheat only the portion you intend to eat, as repeated reheating can affect the texture of the potatoes.

This chowder is an excellent candidate for making ahead. You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply place the insert into the base and turn it on. The flavors often improve after sitting for a day, making it a perfect meal to prepare on a weekend for a busy week ahead.

Serving ideas

Serve this chowder piping hot in large, deep bowls to retain its heat. A side of crusty sourdough bread or warm garlic rolls is the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the creamy, Dijon-spiced broth.

If you enjoy a bit of texture, consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a small handful of toasted croutons right before bringing the bowls to the table.

For a more complete meal, pair the chowder with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of a fresh salad cuts through the richness of the Swiss and ham, creating a balanced dining experience.

Ensure the bowls are warmed slightly beforehand if you are serving on a particularly cold day, as this helps to keep the soup at the perfect temperature for longer.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Dijon Ham and Swiss Chowder

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced ham
• 4 cups diced potatoes
• 1 packet herb seasoning
• 4 cups Dijon broth

Instructions

1. Place the diced ham into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Distribute the diced potatoes evenly over the top of the ham. This layering ensures even heat distribution during the cooking process.
2. Scatter the contents of the herb seasoning packet over the potatoes. Carefully pour the Dijon broth over the ingredients, ensuring the liquid reaches the bottom of the insert to prevent scorching.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the potatoes are tender. Once finished, ensure the ham has reached at least 145°F (63°C) and let the chowder rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: milk, mustard

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

16 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.