Potato-Cheese Chowder
Creamy and comforting, Potato-Cheese Chowder features tender potatoes and melted Cheddar in a rich milk base. With a hint of parsley, it's perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, appealing to cheese lovers and those craving hearty, flavorful soups.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the diced potatoes and chopped onion slowly in the milk until they are well done.
- Mash the cooked vegetables with a potato masher until smooth or slightly chunky, as preferred.
- Add the cubed Cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir until melted and well incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you want to add a touch of sweetness, a small diced carrot can be included with the potatoes and onions. Feel free to substitute Cheddar with Gruyere or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Additionally, fresh herbs like thyme or chives can elevate the dish, making it a heartwarming option among vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Potato-Cheese Chowder is delightful served with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For added texture, consider topping it with crispy bacon bits or croutons. It pairs beautifully with Cantaloupe Jello Salad, making it a great choice for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much while cooling, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato-Cheese Chowder contains roughly 1286 calories, with 38g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1098mg per serving (48% 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 and stored in the refrigerator. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after reheating. If possible, store the cheese separately and stir it in just before serving to maintain its creaminess.
Is there a way to make this chowder vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan cheese alternatives instead of Cheddar. You can also enhance the flavor by adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste while keeping it plant-based.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the chowder?
Consider adding sautéed garlic or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. A splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can also provide a nice kick. Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to find your favorite combination.
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).