Mexican Chowder
A hearty Mexican-inspired chowder with savory meats, cheese, vegetables, and spices, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering. Rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground pork, ground beef, and chopped onions in fat in a skillet.
- Add chopped garlic, black olives, mushrooms, pimento, corn, cooked spaghetti, and tomatoes to the skillet.
- Add juice from pimento and mushrooms, along with 1/2 cup tap water.
- Cook slowly for 45 minutes, covered.
- Serve while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using lean turkey instead of ground pork and beef. You can substitute the American cheese with a lower-fat cheese for a healthier dish. If you prefer a spicier chowder, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Ensure the spaghetti is al dente to maintain its texture during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chowder with crusty bread or tortilla chips for dipping. A side salad with fresh greens and avocado complements the meal perfectly. For an extra kick, offer hot sauce on the side. This dish pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Taco Salad for a complete feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave portions in a covered dish, stirring halfway, until hot. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Chowder contains roughly 1133 calories, with 42g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1258mg per serving (55% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and store it in the refrigerator after cooking. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Reheat gently before serving, and consider adding a little more water or broth if it thickens too much.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used, so adjust accordingly for optimal texture.
What can I serve this chowder with?
This chowder is filling on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a fresh salad, such as a simple green salad, or alongside some homemade cornbread. For a festive touch, pair with Mexican recipes like Homemade Hot Tamales to enhance the theme.
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).