Here’s a detailed and engaging recipe for Macaroni and Cheese Chowder, tailored for the “Love With Recipes” site. This creamy and comforting dish is perfect for a quick lunch or snack, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will please both kids and adults.
Macaroni and Cheese Chowder
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Servings: 4
Description
Make and share this Macaroni and Cheese Chowder recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This delectable chowder combines the comforting flavors of macaroni and cheese with the heartiness of a chowder, featuring tender pasta, savory ham, and creamy goodness that is sure to delight the entire family. It’s low in cholesterol and perfect for toddlers, making it a healthy choice for lunch or a snack.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Reduced-sodium chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Cooked ham | 1 cup, diced |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Cream-style corn | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Cheese packet from macaroni mix | 1 packet (typically 7.5 oz) |
| Macaroni (from mix) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 347.1 |
| Total Fat | 9.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 41.5 mg |
| Sodium | 677 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 7.4 g |
| Protein | 20.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Broth: Begin by pouring the reduced-sodium chicken broth and water into a large saucepan. Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, which will infuse the flavors and set the base for your chowder.
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Add the Macaroni: Once the broth is boiling, gradually incorporate the macaroni from the package mix into the bubbling liquid. This step is crucial as it ensures that the pasta absorbs the delicious broth flavor while cooking.
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Adjust the Heat: After adding the macaroni, reduce the heat to medium-low. This adjustment allows the pasta to simmer gently, preventing it from becoming overcooked and mushy. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for about 11 to 14 minutes or until the macaroni is tender and cooked through.
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Incorporate the Ingredients: Once the macaroni is ready, carefully stir in the cream-style corn, diced cooked ham, and milk. These ingredients add a delightful creaminess and rich flavor to the chowder, elevating it from a simple mac and cheese to a hearty meal.
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Add the Cheese: After mixing in the ham and milk, add the contents of the cheese packet. Stir the mixture thoroughly over medium heat, allowing the cheese to melt and blend into the chowder. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the chowder is heated through and all ingredients are well combined.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once your Macaroni and Cheese Chowder is fully heated, remove the saucepan from the heat. Ladle the chowder into bowls and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Chowder: Feel free to get creative with your chowder by adding vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also use different types of cheese for a unique twist.
- Make It Ahead: This chowder can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve.
- Freezing: For longer storage, consider freezing the chowder in an airtight container. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Keywords
Lunch/Snacks, Ham, Pork, Meat, Low Cholesterol, Toddler Friendly, Healthy, Kid Friendly, < 30 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy
This Macaroni and Cheese Chowder recipe not only offers a quick and easy option for lunch or dinner, but also presents an opportunity for family bonding in the kitchen. The process of making this chowder is simple, making it an excellent choice for beginner cooks looking to create something special that everyone will enjoy.
