This vegetable chowder is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights when you need something warm and filling. The blend of tender vegetables, creamy broth, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, this chowder is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
With its rich flavor and velvety texture, this soup is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you can enjoy a homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen. You can also customize the chowder with your favorite vegetables or protein, making it versatile for any dietary preferences.
Full Recipe:
-
1 medium onion, chopped
-
1 medium carrot, chopped
-
1 medium celery rib, chopped
-
1 tablespoon butter
-
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
-
3 cups frozen mixed vegetables
-
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
-
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon pepper
-
1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
-
1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
-
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
-
In a large pot, sauté onion, carrot, and celery in butter over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
-
Gradually stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
-
Slowly add the broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
-
Add the frozen vegetables, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
-
Pour in the half-and-half and stir well.
-
Add shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted and smooth.
-
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction
As the weather turns colder, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and satisfaction. Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is the perfect dish to keep you cozy during chilly fall and winter days. This delightful chowder blends fresh vegetables with creamy milk and a hint of cheddar cheese, making it both rich in flavor and easy to prepare. Whether you are looking for a quick family dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this vegetable chowder is sure to impress. The combination of hearty potatoes, crisp broccoli, savory carrots, and celery creates a nutritious and flavorful base, while the addition of ham and cheese brings a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
The Origins of Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder
Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder was first introduced by Jenna Jackson from Salt Lake City, Utah. A classic comfort food recipe, it quickly gained popularity for its ease of preparation and its ability to please a wide range of palates. This dish is a wonderful representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create something both wholesome and indulgent. Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is especially popular during the colder months, making it an ideal addition to any fall or winter meal plan. Its hearty nature ensures that it fills you up, while its smooth, creamy texture makes it a crowd favorite.
Why This Soup is a Perfect Choice for Cold Weather
When the temperature drops, there’s no better way to warm up than with a comforting soup like Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder. The creamy base, enhanced with the richness of butter, cheese, and milk, offers a satisfying texture that coats the palate perfectly. The combination of vegetables—broccoli, carrots, celery, and potatoes—provides a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness, while the addition of fully cooked ham brings a savory touch that elevates the flavor profile. This chowder is a complete meal in itself, offering a healthy mix of vegetables and protein that will keep you full for hours.
Health Benefits of Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder
Despite being a creamy dish, Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder offers a balance of nutrition that makes it a healthy choice for families. Potatoes, which form the base of the soup, are an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Broccoli, carrots, and celery are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and fiber. These vegetables support immune health, digestion, and overall well-being. The addition of ham not only adds flavor but also contributes protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Using whole milk and a moderate amount of butter ensures that the soup remains rich without being overly indulgent. Moreover, the cheese adds an extra layer of calcium, which is vital for bone health. If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit lighter, you can substitute low-fat milk or use plant-based alternatives like almond milk, although this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
Versatility and Customization
One of the most attractive features of Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is its versatility. While the recipe calls for specific vegetables, it’s easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen. If you’re not a fan of one of the vegetables, simply swap it out for another one. For instance, you can replace broccoli with cauliflower, or add some corn for an extra burst of sweetness. You can also adjust the amount of ham depending on your preference, or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
For those following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, there are plenty of substitutions available. Use gluten-free flour for the roux, and opt for dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives to create a version that fits your dietary needs. This soup is also highly customizable with your favorite seasonings—add a pinch of nutmeg, garlic powder, or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor to your liking.
How to Serve Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder
Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. For a casual dinner, serve it alongside a slice of crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a fun, interactive experience. The bread bowl adds a unique twist to the presentation while also allowing diners to scoop up every last bit of chowder. For a more formal meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, nutritious dinner.
You can also get creative with toppings! A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some crumbled bacon can take this dish to the next level. For a burst of freshness, try garnishing with chopped parsley or chives. The soup can also be enjoyed as a starter at a holiday dinner or a cozy gathering.
Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder for a Crowd
This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect for serving a large group. If you’re hosting a family dinner, a potluck, or a winter gathering, Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is an easy and affordable way to feed a crowd. You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance and store it for future use. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of extra milk or broth if needed to bring it back to the perfect creamy consistency.
Making It Ahead
One of the great things about Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is that it tastes even better the next day! This makes it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeks. You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If you prefer, you can also freeze the soup for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, allow the chowder to thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is a versatile, delicious, and hearty soup that’s perfect for any cold-weather occasion. With its combination of tender vegetables, savory ham, and rich cheddar cheese, it’s sure to please anyone at your table. This dish is easy to prepare, can be customized to suit different dietary needs, and is ideal for making ahead or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or a simple weeknight supper, this chowder will become a staple in your recipe collection. Warm up with a bowl of Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder, and enjoy the comfort and satisfaction it brings.
Why You Should Try It
Priscilla’s Vegetable Chowder is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting soup that is both nourishing and flavorful. It’s a dish that brings together the best of home-cooked meals, with fresh vegetables, creamy broth, and a rich cheese flavor. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this chowder is perfect for creating lasting memories around the dinner table with family and friends. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.