Cheddar Chowder

📜 Collection: UK3 | ✍️ Attribution: Svarale | 📂 Category: Soups A rich and hearty cheddar chowder loaded with new potatoes, carrots, celery, and savory chopped ham. This comforting vintage soup is thickened with a creamy homemade cheese sauce until smooth and velvety.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
20 mins25 minsNone6–8 Servings

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or pot
  • Saucepan
  • Wire whisk

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
2 CupsNew PotatoesPeeled and chopped
1/2 CupCarrotsDiced
1/2 CupCelerySliced
1/4 CupCeleryChopped
1 1/2 CupsWaterBoiling
1/4 CupMargarineNone
1/4 CupFlourNone
2 TeaspoonsSaltNone
1/4 TeaspoonPepperNone
2 CupsMilkNone
2 CupsCheddar CheeseShredded, 8oz
1 CupHamChopped

Instructions

Step 1: Simmer the Vegetables

  1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine the 2 cups peeled new potatoes, 1/2 cup diced carrots, 1/2 cup sliced celery, 1/4 cup chopped celery, and 1 1/2 cups boiling water.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender. Do not drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a separate saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup margarine over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the 1/4 cup flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper until smooth.
  3. Gradually stir in the 2 cups milk until smooth.
  4. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, add the 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until completely melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Heat Through

  1. Pour the warm cheese sauce into the Dutch oven with the cooked vegetables.
  2. Add the 1 cup chopped ham and stir gently to combine.
  3. Heat through thoroughly over low heat until piping hot, but do not allow it to boil.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop without boiling to prevent separation.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card