Golden Cheese Chowder
Golden Cheese Chowder is a hearty, creamy soup with tender vegetables and sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for cozy gatherings or comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a kettle.
- Add potatoes, sliced carrots, sliced celery, diced onions, salt, and pepper to the boiling water.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter or margarine over medium heat.
- Blend in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute.
- Gradually stir in the milk, continuing to cook and stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in grated Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add the cheese mixture to the cooked vegetables and heat through without boiling.
- Optional: Stir in 2 cups of cubed cooked ham and hot pepper sauce to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend some of the cooked vegetables before adding the cheese mixture. If you want to reduce calories, consider using low-fat milk or a dairy alternative. For additional flavor, sauté mushrooms before adding them to the chowder or try substituting the Cheddar with Gruyère for a different taste experience. This chowder can also be made vegetarian by omitting the optional ham.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad, such as a Lemon-Yogurt Salad Dressing(Or Dip), to balance the richness of the chowder. Consider offering a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much upon refrigeration, add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Golden Cheese Chowder contains roughly 2220 calories, with 31g protein, 223g carbohydrates, and 135g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (126% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (125% of the Daily Value), and calcium (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2080mg per serving (90% 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 different types of cheese in this chowder?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses! While sharp Cheddar is traditional, you could use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère and Parmesan for added depth. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a smooth chowder.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can create a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and water, then stirring it into the simmering chowder until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the vegetables into a puree before adding them back to the pot.
Is this chowder suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit more milk if needed.
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).