Dinner Chowder
A hearty, creamy chowder loaded with potatoes, onions, celery, and Velveeta, perfect for comforting dinners and suitable for family gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place diced potatoes, minced onions, diced celery, salt, and boiling water into a large pot.
- Simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a separate pot, melt margarine to make a roux.
- Add flour, seasonings, and milk to the roux, stirring until smooth.
- Add Velveeta to the milk mixture and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine the vegetable mixture with the cheese sauce.
- Add parsley and tomatoes to the chowder.
- Heat to the desired temperature and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the chowder even better the next day.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the Velveeta with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to add them in for extra nutrition. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the taste, making this dinner chowder even more delightful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder hot with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal. A fresh green salad can complement the richness of the chowder beautifully. For a variation, consider pairing it with Oven Baked Apple Pancakes With Sausage for a delightful brunch option. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for an attractive presentation.
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 stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to reach the desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dinner Chowder contains roughly 1843 calories, with 39g protein, 289g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1720mg per serving (75% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chowder vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of water and omitting the A.1. sauce if it contains anchovies. Additionally, ensure that your margarine is plant-based to keep the dish fully vegetarian.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Also, check the labels on your margarine and Velveeta cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the chowder?
You can add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor or include spices like cayenne pepper for a kick. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors as well. Fresh herbs such as dill or chives also make a delicious addition.
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).