Mexican Garden Chowder
A creamy, flavorful Mexican-inspired chowder packed with salsa, beans, corn, and melted cheese. Perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine salsa, beans, water, and corn in a 3-quart saucepan. Heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to medium low and gradually stir in half & half.
- Add cheese and potato flakes.
- Stir occasionally and cook over low heat for about 5 minutes or until the chowder thickens slightly.
- Garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh cilantro and serve with corn chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier chowder, consider using a hotter salsa or adding diced jalapenos. If you don't have Monterey Jack, a sharp cheddar can be a great substitute. You can also replace half & half with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter version. For added texture, try stirring in some cooked quinoa or black beans, which also make this dish suitable for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs wonderfully with crispy corn chips for dipping or crumbling on top. You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh salad or as a side to dishes like Lazy Cheese Enchiladas for a complete meal. Consider offering lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the chowder if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the cheese and cream.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Garden Chowder contains roughly 585 calories, with 20g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (284% of the Daily Value), iron (86% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 862mg per serving (37% 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! Simply substitute the refried beans with a vegetarian version and omit the sausage. This will keep the dish flavorful while making it suitable for vegetarians. You can also enhance the flavor with more spices or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
How can I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?
If your chowder turns out too thin, you can thicken it by adding more instant potato flakes, which will absorb excess liquid, or let it simmer longer to reduce. Another option is to blend a portion of the chowder and stir it back in for a creamier consistency.
What can I serve with this chowder?
This chowder is delightful on its own, but it can also be served with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or beef tacos, like Bertha Ramirez Tacos, to complement the flavors.
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).