Cheesy Fish Chowder
Creamy, cheesy fish chowder combines tender fish, fresh vegetables, and melted Cheddar for a comforting, flavorful soup perfect for seafood lovers and chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut fish into 1-inch cubes.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, potatoes, and celery.
- Cook until the onion is transparent.
- Blend in flour and salt.
- Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add fish cubes to the soup.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a different protein, shrimp or crab can be great substitutes for fish. Adding a splash of white wine can enhance the flavor of the chowder. Be sure to stir constantly when adding the liquids to avoid lumps from the flour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Fish Chowder with crusty bread or crackers for a delightful meal. A fresh garden salad pairs well, complementing the rich flavors of the chowder. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken Asparagus Roll-Ups, which would round out the meal beautifully.
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 frequently, until hot. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the fish to become tough. You can also add a little extra milk if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Fish Chowder contains roughly 2258 calories, with 21g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 184g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (49% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2370mg per serving (103% 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 fish fillets for this chowder?
Yes, frozen fish fillets can be used in this chowder. Just thaw them before cutting into cubes. Ensure they are cooked thoroughly to avoid any raw spots, which might take a few extra minutes compared to fresh fish.
Is there a way to make this chowder gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. If using cornstarch, mix it with a little cold water before adding it to the broth to prevent clumping.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the soup before serving to adjust the heat to your preference.
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).