Creamy Cheddar Chowder
Creamy Cheddar Chowder is a comforting, cheesy soup with tender vegetables and ham, perfect for hearty meals and family gatherings, offering rich flavors and smooth texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the diced potatoes, carrot slices, and chopped broccoli in 2 cups of water until vegetables are soft (do not drain).
- Make a white sauce in a separate pan by melting butter and stirring in flour over a hot burner.
- Add milk and shredded Cheddar cheese to the white sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted.
- Add the undrained vegetables and cubed cooked ham to the cheese sauce mixture.
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of pepper.
- Continue heating until the mixture is uniformly hot, without allowing it to boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the chowder. You can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or even diced chicken for a different protein. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables like corn or bell peppers. Using low-fat milk can also reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy cheddar chowder with crusty bread for dipping, or alongside a fresh Cantaloupe Green Salad for a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley can add a nice touch. This chowder also pairs beautifully with Glenda'S Grilled Pork Tenderloin for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chowder gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens too much during storage, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Cheddar Chowder contains roughly 1299 calories, with 22g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 70g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (325% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% 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 other types of cheese in this chowder?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may change slightly.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make this chowder gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Make sure to check that the broth and cheese are also certified gluten-free.
What can I add to make this chowder heartier?
For a heartier chowder, you can add cooked beans, such as white beans or chickpeas, or incorporate more vegetables like sweet corn and bell peppers. This will increase the nutritional value and add more 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).