Sandy Gustafson'S Ham And Cheese Chowder
A hearty and comforting ham and cheese chowder packed with tender vegetables and melted Cheddar, perfect for satisfying hungry appetites. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings, offering a delicious blend of smoky ham and rich cheese in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine boiling water, diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped onion, salt, and pepper in a pot.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Do not drain the vegetables.
- Make a white sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, then stirring in flour and gradually adding milk, cooking until thickened.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Add cubed ham and the undrained vegetables to the cheese sauce.
- Heat through but do not bring to a boil before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also add diced potatoes for extra heartiness or substitute the ham with cooked chicken for a different flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the taste. If you're short on time, use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chowder with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Corn Sausage Chowder for a comforting dinner. For added flavor, sprinkle some extra cheese or fresh herbs on top before serving. This dish is perfect for cold evenings or gatherings with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the chowder thickens too much. Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sandy Gustafson'S Ham And Cheese Chowder contains roughly 1009 calories, with 18g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (153% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (84% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2467mg per serving (107% 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, you can prepare the chowder a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until the final step, then let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove and finish with the last step to heat through.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and replace it with additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also add beans for protein. Ensure to use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor.
What can I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency. This will also help maintain the creamy texture. Adjust seasoning as needed after adding additional liquid.
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).