Farmhouse Ham Chowder

I have made this soup two times. I actually thought I had already posted this recipe but when I went to look for it on here I could not find it. Now I am adding it. Whenever I make a ham I always have leftovers that I freeze for soups and beans. This soup was made from ham that I diced and saved from Christmas. It is a very quick dinner and the kids just love it too.

Ingredients
1/2 c finely chopped onion
1/2 c finely chopped celery
1/2 c chopped sweet red pepper
2 tbsp butter
1/4 c all-purpose flour
1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix
4-1/4 c milk
2 c frozen cubed hash brown potatoes, thawed
2 c frozen corn, thawed
2 c cubed fully cooked ham
1/4 tsp dried thyme
2 oz cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions
In a large saucepan, saute the onion, celery and red pepper in butter until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir in flour and dressing mix until smooth; gradually stir in milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add the potatoes, corn, ham and thyme. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with cheese before serving.