Sausage-Vegetable Chowder
A hearty sausage and vegetable chowder with creamy milk base, colorful vegetables, and smoky sausage, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt butter or margarine over low heat.
- Blend in flour, salt, onion powder, dill weed, and pepper.
- Add milk all at once and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
- Cut the partially thawed frozen vegetables into bite-size pieces, if necessary.
- Stir the vegetables, corn, and sliced sausage into the soup.
- Cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes or until vegetables are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker chowder, consider adding a diced potato or a can of cream-style corn. You can substitute the smoked sausage with turkey sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version. If you prefer more flavor, sauté some chopped onion and garlic in the butter before adding the flour. This chowder can be customized with your favorite frozen vegetables; just ensure they are partially thawed for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Stovetop Shepherd'S Pie. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, making it a comforting choice for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, but add a splash of milk if the chowder thickens too much during storage to maintain a creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage-Vegetable Chowder contains roughly 1166 calories, with 14g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), iron (76% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1885mg per serving (82% 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 of time. Just prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Smoked sausage is ideal for adding rich flavor, but you can use any cooked sausage or even kielbasa. If you want a healthier option, turkey sausage works well and retains great taste. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different type of sausage.
Can I freeze the sausage-vegetable chowder?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder, but it's best to do so without the milk. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat, then stir in fresh milk to restore creaminess. Freezing may alter the texture slightly, so enjoy it fresh whenever possible.
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).