Midwest Chowder
Midwest Chowder is a hearty, cheesy soup packed with potatoes, carrots, celery, and corn. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it perfect for cozy family dinners or cold days. The combination of sharp cheddar and vegetables creates a comforting, satisfying dish for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the margarine in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the melted margarine and cook, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a sauce.
- Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth, creating a cheese sauce.
- Add water, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped onion, and salt to the cheese sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 20-30 minutes.
- Stir in the two cans of cream style corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using whole milk or substituting half-and-half for part of the milk. If you're out of margarine, butter works just as well. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables like corn or green beans for extra texture. To enhance the flavor, a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika can be a delightful addition.
Serving Suggestions
This Midwest Chowder is perfect as a hearty main dish. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Corn Dog Munchies for a fun, casual dinner. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs or additional cheese for a lovely presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Midwest Chowder contains roughly 811 calories, with 16g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1951mg per serving (85% 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, this chowder can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just be mindful that the potatoes may absorb some liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a bit of milk or water when reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Is this chowder suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this chowder is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. However, always double-check the cheese and margarine brands for any hidden animal products. For a vegan version, substitute plant-based cheese and margarine.
What can I add for extra protein?
To boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, diced ham, or even beans for a vegetarian option. You can stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked bacon just before serving for a savory twist.
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).