Crockpot Maple Ham and Sweet Potato Chowder Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor profile, consider sautéing the onions in a separate pan before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional. This step adds a caramelized sweetness that contrasts well with the maple.

If you prefer a more rustic texture, leave some of the sweet potato cubes slightly larger. The key to a successful chowder is patience; allow the slow cooker to do its work without checking on it too frequently, as this releases heat and moisture that are vital for the texture.

When seasoning, taste the chowder at the very end. The ham provides a significant amount of salt, so only add extra salt or pepper if absolutely necessary. You can also garnish the final bowls with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves or a small drizzle of extra maple syrup for presentation.

If the chowder is too thick, simply add a small splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to adjust the ratio of ham to potatoes based on your personal preference.

Variations

• Spicy Maple Chowder: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth before cooking to provide a gentle heat that balances the sweetness of the maple.
• Vegetable-Packed Version: Incorporate extra vegetables such as diced celery or carrots during the layering process for added color, crunch, and a more complex profile.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container; stir well after thawing.

Reheat

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

Allow the leftover chowder to cool for no more than two hours after cooking. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the soup from absorbing other odors. If you are planning to store it for longer, consider freezing it, although the creamy nature of the chowder may change slightly in texture upon thawing and reheating.

This dish is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often improve after sitting for a day. You can prepare the base and cook it entirely in advance, then cool and store it as directed. When you are ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It is a convenient way to have a hearty dinner ready to go for busy days when you do not have time to cook from scratch.

Serving ideas

Serve this chowder hot in shallow bowls, allowing the steam to release its inviting aroma. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the soup.

Because the dish is quite hearty, a small portion is often sufficient for a light meal, while a larger bowl makes for a substantial dinner. The bright colors of the sweet potato and the savory ham make for an appealing presentation that requires little more than a simple garnish to look complete.

For an added touch, consider serving the chowder with a side of cornbread or crackers to provide a nice crunch against the creamy texture of the soup. Ensure that every bowl contains a good mix of both ham and sweet potatoes.

If you have guests, you can set out a small bowl of fresh thyme or black pepper so that everyone can customize their own servings. The chowder is best enjoyed immediately after the final stirring stage while it is at its peak temperature and consistency.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Maple Ham and Sweet Potato Chowder

Prep 15 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs diced ham
• 3 cups raw sweet potato cubes
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 8 oz cream cheese, block form
• 3 cups thyme-flecked maple broth

Instructions

1. Place the diced ham into the bottom of the slow cooker basin. Add the sweet potato cubes and chopped onion on top of the ham in an even layer. Position the block of cream cheese directly in the center of the pile.
2. Pour the thyme-flecked maple broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and the cream cheese has melted into the broth.
3. Once the cooking time is complete, use a large spoon or ladle to stir the mixture thoroughly, breaking up any remaining clumps of cream cheese until the chowder is smooth, thick, and creamy. Serve immediately while hot.

Contains: milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

21 g

Fiber

3.5 g

Sugar

12 g

Sodium

950 mg

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