Bacon, Cheddar And Potato Chowder
A hearty, cheesy potato chowder loaded with crispy bacon and melted cheddar, perfect for cozy evenings and satisfying lunch or dinner options.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce potatoes with a fork, place on a paper towel in microwave oven and microwave on high 10 to 12 minutes or until potatoes are tender, turning potatoes over after 6 minutes of cooking.
- Cool for 5 minutes.
- Cook bacon in a large saucepan until crisp.
- Transfer bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside.
- Cook onion in drippings over medium heat about 8 minutes or until tender.
- Add flour; cook and stir for 30 seconds.
- Add 4 1/2 cups milk, salt and pepper; bring to a simmer.
- Cut potatoes in half; scoop flesh into a medium bowl.
- Add remaining 1/2 cup milk; mash potatoes well and add to the soup.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Remove from heat; stir in 1 1/2 cups cheese until melted.
- Ladle into soup bowls; top with reserved bacon and remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half in place of some of the milk. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. To enhance flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This chowder is perfect for pairing with a side of Ranch Hand Sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chowder with crusty bread for dipping or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with Yummy Baked Beans for a comforting dinner. Sprinkle some fresh chives or parsley on top for a pop of color and additional flavor. For a fun twist, consider topping it with crispy fried onions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon, Cheddar And Potato Chowder contains roughly 1205 calories, with 37g protein, 232g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), protein (73% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2113mg per serving (92% 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 make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chowder ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to reheat it gently, as mentioned, to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I use instead of baking potatoes?
If baking potatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, as they both hold up well in soups. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they may become mushy and alter the chowder's texture.
Can I add vegetables to this chowder?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like corn, carrots, or celery can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the chowder. Just sauté them alongside the onions until tender before adding the flour and milk, ensuring they blend well with the other ingredients.
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).