Swiss Broccoli Chowder
A creamy, hearty broccoli chowder infused with smoky ham flavor, perfect for cozy meals and family gatherings, offering a rich blend of cheese and vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ham hocks in water for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
- Drain the ham hocks, reserving 1 1/2 cups of broth.
- Let the ham cool, then dice and set aside.
- Add the frozen chopped broccoli to the broth and cook until tender.
- In a separate pot, whisk together water and flour until smooth.
- Gradually stir in milk and half and half, then cook until the mixture thickens.
- Add the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese to the soup, stirring until cheese melts and the soup is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the chowder. If you want a lighter version, substitute the half and half with more milk or a non-dairy alternative. You can also use fresh broccoli if you prefer, just adjust the cooking time to ensure it becomes tender. This chowder pairs beautifully with Ham Baked In A Blanket for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. For a cozy dinner, pair it with American recipes like Macaroni And Bacon for a comforting combination that will satisfy everyone at the table.
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 frequently to prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating, but be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swiss Broccoli Chowder contains roughly 372 calories, with 11g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just chop it into small florets and add it to the broth during cooking. Fresh broccoli typically requires a shorter cooking time, so keep an eye on it until tender.
How can I make this chowder vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead. You can add more vegetables like carrots and celery for extra flavor and texture, and use a vegetarian cheese substitute for the Swiss cheese.
What can I serve with Swiss Broccoli Chowder?
This chowder is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. It also complements well with savory dishes like Virginia Ham Biscuits for a delightful 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).