Cheesy Vegetable Chowder: 6 Comforting Ingredients to Love

Cheesy Vegetable Chowder is a hearty and comforting dish that brings warmth and nourishment to chilly evenings. The creamy texture combined with vibrant vegetables creates a delightful meal that the whole family will love. Whether serving it on a cold night or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this chowder is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

This Cheesy Vegetable Chowder is not just delicious; it offers numerous benefits. First, it’s packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables like broccoli and carrots, making it a healthy choice. Second, it’s a versatile dish; you can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Third, the chowder is vegetarian, catering to those who prefer plant-based meals. Additionally, it’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners. Lastly, leftovers taste even better, making it a fantastic meal prep option. With its creamy consistency, this chowder is a true comfort food cheesy chowder that warms the soul.

Ingredients for Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

Gather these items:

• 5 tbsp Butter (divided; adds richness and flavor)
• 3 large Carrots (chopped; provides sweetness and texture)
• 3 stalks Celery (chopped; adds aromatic depth)
• 1 Yellow Onion (diced; base flavor for the soup)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced; enhances flavor)
• 4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (provides a savory base)
• 3 Russet Potatoes (peeled and cubed; add heartiness)
• 1 Celery Root (peeled and cubed; offers a unique flavor)
• 2 heads Broccoli (chopped into florets; adds color and nutrition)
• 1 small head Cauliflower (chopped into florets; contributes creaminess)
• 1/4 tsp Dried Thyme (adds earthy flavor)
• 1 tsp Salt (enhances flavors)
• 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper (provides a mild kick)
• a Pinch of Paprika (adds mild smokiness)
• a Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (for a hint of spice)
• 6 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (thickens the chowder)
• 3 cups Milk (for creaminess in the chowder)
• 1/2 cup Half and Half (adds richness)
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (provides the signature cheesy flavor)

How to Make Cheesy Vegetable Chowder Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and diced onion, sautéing for about 4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
2. Step 2: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, followed by the cubed russet potatoes and celery root. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and let simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the chopped broccoli and cauliflower florets to the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until all the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 6 tablespoons of flour, cooking for about 1 minute until smooth. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk until thickened.
5. Step 5: Stir in ½ cup of half and half into the creamy mixture. Pour this into the pot of cooked vegetables, stirring to combine. Simmer for an extra minute before turning off the heat.
6. Step 6: Gradually mix in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and the chowder is rich and creamy.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

Keep these in mind:

• This chowder is great for meal prep. Explore more meal prep recipes.
• You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• For a richer flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
• Consider using a mix of cheeses for a unique taste.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

There are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy this chowder. Serve it with warm crusty bread for a comforting meal or top it with croutons for added crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the flavors even more, making it a delightful vegetable cheese soup.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

This chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Vegetable Chowder?

The secret lies in sautéing the vegetables first to develop their flavors fully. Always add cheese gradually to achieve a creamy texture.

Can I make Cheesy Vegetable Chowder ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chowder stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep. Just reheat it gently before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Vegetable Chowder?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the vegetables, as they should remain tender yet firm. Stir the cheese in slowly to prevent clumping.

Variations of Cheesy Vegetable Chowder You Can Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also make a cheesy potato vegetable chowder by adding diced potatoes or even create a slow cooker cheesy vegetable chowder for convenience. Each variation can bring a new twist to this comforting dish!

For more information on the nutritional benefits of vegetables, check out this Healthline article.

Additionally, if you’re interested in learning about different types of chowders, visit this Spruce Eats page.

Finally, for tips on how to make your chowder even creamier, see this Food Network guide.

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