Fish And Cheese Chowder
Fish and Cheese Chowder offers a creamy, hearty soup combining tender fish, fresh vegetables, and melted processed cheese. Its rich flavors and comforting warmth make it perfect for a cozy meal, suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings, especially during cooler months.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the fish into 1-inch cubes.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan.
- Add chopped onion, chopped carrot, and chopped celery.
- Cook until the onion is transparent.
- Stir in flour, salt, and paprika.
- Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly.
- Add the fish cubes and simmer until the fish flakes easily, about 5 minutes for fresh fish or 10 minutes for frozen.
- Stir in the grated processed cheese until melted.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk or adding a splash of heavy cream at the end. If you’re out of processed cheese, sharp cheddar can work, but adjust the salt accordingly. You can also add a variety of vegetables like corn or potatoes for extra texture. For a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an added twist, consider serving it alongside a light dish like Walnut Broccoli to balance the richness. A glass of white wine would complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much during storage. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may alter the texture of the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fish And Cheese Chowder contains roughly 831 calories, with 29g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (234% of the Daily Value), and iron (170% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1926mg per serving (84% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just be sure to allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, or cook them a bit longer in the chowder until they flake easily. This ensures the best texture and flavor in your chowder.
What types of fish work best in this chowder?
Mild white fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia work great in this chowder. They hold their shape well and absorb flavors nicely. Avoid oily fish like salmon, as they may overpower the chowder's delicate taste.
Can I add more vegetables to the chowder?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or even diced potatoes for added texture and flavor. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are cooked until tender before adding the fish to the chowder.
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).