Cheesy Ham Chowder

10 bacon strips, diced (optional)
1 large onion, chopped
1 cup diced carrots (optional)
3 tbsp flour
3 cups milk
1½ cups water
2½ cups cubed potatoes
1 can or ¾ bag frozen corn
2 tsp better than bouillon (or bouillon granules)
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups fully cooked ham (optional)

Brown bacon (if using) and remove pieces to paper towel to drain. Saute onion in bacon grease (if using bacon) or olive oil in a stock pot until nearly caramelized. Add carrots (if using). Stir in flour until blended. Gradually add milk and water. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 mins or until slightly thickened. Add the potatoes, corn, bouillon, and pepper to taste. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 mins or until potatoes are tender. Add cheese and ham(if using). Heat until cheese is melted. Stir in bacon (if using).

You can really change this recipe to suit your pantry. I've added more potatoes, less cheese, more corn, no corn, ham, no ham, bacon, no bacon.... it always turns out yummy!!