Noodle Chowder
A creamy, hearty noodle chowder packed with fresh vegetables and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and vegetable lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the sliced celery, thinly sliced yellow squash, broccoli florets, chopped onion, and chicken broth.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the pasta according to package directions and set aside.
- Stir the milk, grated Cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper into the vegetable mixture.
- Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and simmer for about 10 minutes until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chowder, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative. This dish also works well with leftover cooked chicken, making it a great way to use up any extra from recipes like Chicken Rice Roger.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the noodle chowder hot, garnished with additional grated cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner option, consider serving it alongside Easy Chicken Pan Pie for a satisfying combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the chowder thickens too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can lead to uneven heating and a change in texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodle Chowder contains roughly 299 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% 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 vegetables in this chowder?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are added at the right time in the cooking process to maintain their texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any chicken if added. You can also enhance the umami flavor by adding mushrooms or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Can I freeze noodle chowder?
Freezing is not recommended for this chowder due to the milk and cheese, which can separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the vegetable mixture without the milk and noodles, then add those fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
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).