Frank-Potato Chowder
A hearty and comforting potato chowder with mixed vegetables, sliced hot dogs, and savory herbs, perfect for a quick family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, combine potatoes, vegetables, onion, parsley flakes, bouillon cubes, and salt.
- Add 1 cup water; bring to a boil.
- Cover and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add sliced franks to the soup and cook until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the franks with smoked sausage or turkey sausage for a different flavor. If you're short on time, precooked potatoes can be used to expedite cooking. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can enhance the taste, while also maintaining the essence of comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Frank-Potato Chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley flakes for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Char-Grilled Chicken or a simple green vegetable to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second increments until hot. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frank-Potato Chowder contains roughly 1402 calories, with 34g protein, 237g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2362mg 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh vegetables! Just be sure to chop them into small, even pieces and adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh vegetables may take less time to become tender compared to frozen ones.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chowder?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the franks and use vegetable bouillon cubes instead of chicken. You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs and spices, or even add some beans for protein.
What can I add for extra flavor?
To boost the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. You can also stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar, just before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish that complements the chowder beautifully.
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).