Potato And Sausage Chowder
A hearty, cheesy potato and sausage chowder with tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a 3-quart saucepan.
- Stir in sliced onion and cook on medium until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Add cubed potatoes, milk, salt, and pepper; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Stir in shredded cheese and sliced sausage.
- Cook and stir until cheese is melted and sausage is heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Using Yukon Gold potatoes will add a buttery flavor to the chowder. For a healthier option, turkey sausage can be used instead of smoked sausage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a special treat, consider serving it alongside a slice of Mucky Duck Key Lime Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato And Sausage Chowder contains roughly 1570 calories, with 40g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and protein (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2680mg per serving (117% 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 types of cheese in this chowder?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. While American and Cheddar are traditional choices, Gruyère or Monterey Jack can also work well, adding unique flavors. Just ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the chowder for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this chowder in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chowder ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it's best to add the cheese and sausage just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor. Reheat gently on the stove.
What can I add to make this chowder more filling?
To make the chowder heartier, consider adding cooked bacon, corn, or even beans. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and nutritional value, making it a more satisfying meal. You might also try serving it with a side of Christmas A.M. Casserole for a festive touch.
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).