Cheesy Vegetable Chowder Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy Vegetable Chowder is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. It combines a medley of mixed vegetables with creamy cheese and milk, creating a rich and satisfying soup that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, corn, and peas)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works well)
- 3 cups milk
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil and add the mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Step 2: Lower the heat and stir in the milk and shredded cheese. Continue to simmer gently, stirring frequently, until the chowder thickens and the cheese is fully melted, about 5-7 minutes.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Try adding cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor boost.
- Use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a more complex taste.
- Include fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to brighten the flavors.
Storage
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the chowder thickens too much when chilled, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up during reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables for this chowder?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work well and can be added directly to the broth for cooking. Just adjust cooking time if necessary to ensure they are fully tender.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.
PrintCheesy Vegetable Chowder Recipe
This Cheesy Vegetable Chowder is a comforting and hearty dish combining a medley of mixed vegetables simmered in flavorful broth, enriched with creamy milk and melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy meal, it offers a rich texture and warming flavors that make it an ideal choice for chilly days or anytime you crave a satisfying vegetable soup with a cheesy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, corn, peas, and potatoes), chopped
Liquids
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook Vegetables: In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil and add the mixed vegetables. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the milk. Gradually add the shredded cheese while stirring continuously to ensure it melts evenly into the soup.
- Simmer to Thicken: Continue to simmer the chowder gently for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the soup has thickened to a creamy consistency. Avoid boiling after cheese is added to prevent curdling.
Notes
- You can use any combination of vegetables based on your preference or what’s available seasonally.
- For a richer chowder, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or add a dollop of cream.
- Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the chowder.
- To make the chowder gluten-free, ensure the broth used is gluten-free certified.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, partially mash some of the cooked potatoes or blend a small portion of the chowder before adding cheese.
Keywords: cheesy chowder, vegetable chowder, creamy vegetable soup, easy chowder recipe, vegetarian chowder
