Pacific Chowder
Creamy and savory Pacific Chowder combines tender tuna, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables in a comforting soup perfect for a quick, satisfying meal with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bacon until crisp; drain and crumble.
- Return 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings to the pan.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper; cook until just tender.
- Add the cream of potato soup and milk; heat just to boiling.
- Drain the tuna; break into chunks.
- Add the tuna and crumbled bacon to the soup.
- Heat through.
- Dash with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you don't have cream of potato soup, you can substitute it with a homemade potato puree or a different cream soup. For a touch of freshness, try adding some chopped parsley or dill before serving. This dish can be made gluten-free by ensuring your soup is certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Pacific Chowder is hearty enough to be a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside Baked Pork Chops And Vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish further, catering to different taste preferences.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens too much after cooling, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pacific Chowder contains roughly 873 calories, with 20g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1018mg per serving (44% 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 fresh potatoes instead of cream of potato soup?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply peel and dice them, then cook them in broth until tender before blending into a creamy consistency. This adds a homemade touch to your chowder, but keep in mind it may require additional seasoning to match the flavor profile of the canned soup.
What can I substitute for tuna if I don't have any?
If you don’t have tuna, you can use canned salmon or shredded chicken as an alternative. Both options will provide protein and complement the flavors of the chowder well. For a vegetarian option, consider adding cooked chickpeas or white beans for a hearty twist.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add heat to your Pacific Chowder, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for those who prefer extra spice.
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).