American Chowder
A hearty American chowder with tender potatoes, smoky links, and creamy milk, perfect for comforting family meals and chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until tender.
- Add cubed potatoes, water, sliced celery, salt, and pepper to the onions.
- Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Gradually add a small amount of milk to the flour to make a smooth mixture.
- Blend the flour mixture into the hot potatoes and cooking liquid.
- Add the remaining milk and sliced Smok-Y Links to the soup.
- Heat through until the cheese is melted, stirring occasionally before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also add diced carrots or corn for extra sweetness and texture. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the Smok-Y Links with a plant-based sausage or omit them entirely. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor profile, making it even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad or pairing with a light dessert like Granny Smith Apple Pie to balance the richness of the chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the milk to curdle. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of American Chowder contains roughly 1427 calories, with 13g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 122g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (231% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen potatoes in this chowder?
Yes, you can use frozen cubed potatoes for convenience. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the soup to ensure even cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed since frozen potatoes might cook faster than fresh ones.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, butter or olive oil are great alternatives. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, so choose based on your preference. For a dairy-free option, stick to a plant-based butter substitute.
How can I thicken the chowder if it's too thin?
If your chowder turns out thinner than desired, you can thicken it by mixing an additional tablespoon of flour with a bit of cold milk and stirring it into the soup. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes to create a creamier texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).