Broccoli-Cheese Chowder
Creamy broccoli-cheese chowder offers comforting flavors with tender vegetables and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty, family-friendly meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped broccoli and chopped potatoes in a small amount of water until tender.
- Add the Cheddar cheese soup, canned corn, and pimento to the cooked vegetables.
- Add milk to taste, using about 3 cups or more, until desired creaminess is achieved.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Serve individual portions with Tabasco sauce as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half in place of milk. If you want to add more flavor, sauté the onion in a bit of butter before adding the other ingredients. You can also toss in some garlic for a deeper taste. For a vegetarian twist, ensure the Cheddar cheese soup is labeled vegetarian-friendly. This dish pairs beautifully with American recipes like garlic bread or a simple side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with extra pimento or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a bit of heat, provide Tabasco sauce on the side for guests to customize their servings. This chowder is also great as a starter for a hearty meal or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may cause uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Cheese Chowder contains roughly 1186 calories, with 18g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (77% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1665mg per serving (72% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just chop it into small pieces and steam it until tender before adding it to the chowder. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. Alternatively, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese soup?
If you don't have Cheddar cheese soup, you can blend cream of mushroom soup with shredded cheese to create a similar flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the original recipe.
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).