Cheese Chowder
A comforting and cheesy potato and vegetable chowder, perfect for chilly days. Rich with melted cheese and savory vegetables, this hearty soup is ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a creamy texture and satisfying flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine potatoes, carrots, onion, and chicken stock in a soup kettle. Simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add flour to the melted butter and stir until blended.
- Slowly add milk, stirring with a whisk until smooth.
- Stir in grated cheese and cook over low heat until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Slowly add the cheese mixture to the vegetables and stock.
- Stir over low heat until blended and heated through.
- Serve best in bread roll bowls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half and half for the milk. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try using aged cheddar cheese. Make sure to stir continuously when adding the cheese mixture to prevent clumping. If you're short on time, you can use pre-packaged shredded cheese to save on prep time. This chowder pairs beautifully with American recipes, especially those featuring chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese chowder in hollowed-out bread rolls for a fun and flavorful presentation. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For added texture, consider topping with croutons or fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for cozy gatherings, making it a great option for a winter night.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. If it thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Chowder contains roughly 2884 calories, with 31g protein, 268g carbohydrates, and 188g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value), potassium (84% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1572mg per serving (68% 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 prepare the chowder a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
Can I use other vegetables in this chowder?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like celery, corn, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure all the vegetables are tender.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice for cheese chowder due to its melting properties and rich flavor. However, you can also experiment with Gruyère for a nutty taste or Monterey Jack for a milder option. Mixing different cheeses can create a unique flavor profile.
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).