Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and rich flavors, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty chowder not only pleases the palate but also packs a nutritional punch, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking healthy and delicious meal options. With its creamy texture, aromatic herbs, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why make this Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs recipe
- Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice.
- Quick Prep: Takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Ideal for leftovers; great reheated for satisfying lunches throughout the week.
- Kid-Approved: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to children and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.
"This chowder is now my family’s go-to comfort food! It tastes incredible and is so easy to make." – Happy Customer
How to make Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs
Making Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs is a simple process that requires minimal cooking skills and a few common kitchen tools, like a large pot and a stirring spoon. You will be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this heartwarming meal. Ready to dive into the details? Let’s explore how to create this delightful recipe. Check out our article on Healthy Meal Prep for Weight Loss for more tips on meal planning!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what’s seasonal or available. For the Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs, you can substitute other vegetables like zucchini or broccoli, and use low-fat cream if preferred.
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add the corn, heavy cream, thyme, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
For another delicious meal, be sure to try our [Creamy Chicken Casserole](https://tastyfitrecipes.com/creamy-chicken-casserole/).
How to serve Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs
This chowder is best enjoyed hot and can be served in bowls garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Additionally, it can be topped with extra shredded cheddar for those who love cheese. Nutritionally, it offers a balanced meal rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
If you love soups, check out our Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta for a delightful side dish option.
How to store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chowder in individual portions, where it will last for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. For safe storage timing, see USDA FoodData Central.
Tips to make
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or use an immersion blender for a creamy consistency.
- Enhance the flavor by adding spices such as paprika or cayenne for a little kick.
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible to elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.
- Ensure to stir regularly as it reheats to prevent sticking and burning.
- Serve it with a sprinkle of bacon bits for a smoky flavor twist if desired.
Variations
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free cheese.
- Vegan: Replace heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives and ensure the broth is vegetable-based.
- Protein-Packed: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or beans for added protein.
- Spicy Option: Include diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables in the Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs?
Yes, using frozen vegetables is a great alternative, and they can make preparation even quicker. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs?
While heavy cream gives the chowder a rich and creamy texture, you can substitute it with milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream for a lighter option.
How can I make the Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs lower in calories?
To cut down on calories, you can use low-fat cheese and cream or leave out the cheese altogether without sacrificing flavor.
For more health tips and recipes, visit Healthline.
Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs is a comforting and delightful dish that you can customize to your taste and dietary needs. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so drop a comment or share it on social media!
Creamy Vegetable Chowder with Cheddar & Herbs
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Broth & Veggies
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
Cream & Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with low-fat cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Herbs & Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add the corn, heavy cream, thyme, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.