Description
Fall in love with this Cheesy Vegetable Chowder recipe—a velvety, comforting soup loaded with hearty vegetables and melty cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 5 tbsp butter – divided
- 3 large carrots – chopped
- 3 stalks celery – chopped
- 1 yellow onion – diced
- 4 cloves garlic – minced
- 4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 russet potatoes – peeled and cut into 1/2–¾ inch cubes
- 1 celery root – peeled and cut into ¼ inch cubes
- 2 medium heads broccoli – chopped into florets (about 3-4 cups)
- 1 small head cauliflower – chopped into florets (about 2 cups)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- Pinch paprika
- Pinch cayenne pepper
- 6 tbsp all purpose flour
- 3 cup milk – 1%, 2%, or whole
- 1/2 cup half and half
- 2 cup medium or sharp cheddar cheese – shredded
Instructions
1. In a large pot over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the carrots, celery, and onion and sauté for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Stir in the chicken broth, potatoes, celery root, thyme, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender.
3. Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Let it come to a gentle boil while whisking.
6. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the half and half, then remove from heat. Pour this mixture into the soup pot after the vegetables are fully cooked. Stir to combine.
7. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and the soup is smooth.
8. Turn off the heat and serve hot.
Notes
Try adding rotisserie chicken for extra protein and a heartier meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Freezing is possible but may alter the texture. Reheat slowly over low heat to maintain creaminess. Avoid boiling once dairy is added.