Spicy Southwestern Cheesy Corn Chowder with Ground Turkey

Southwestern Cheesy Corn Chowder Recipe

Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Description
This rich, spicy Southwestern Cheesy Corn Chowder brings together the warmth of chipotle peppers, sweet potatoes, and a combination of hearty vegetables, ground turkey, and cheese. The chowder is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will surprise your taste buds, especially with the subtle sweetness that the sweet potatoes bring to the dish. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this chowder is a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch in every bite.

Ingredients:

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Cut them into roughly 1/2-inch pieces, as this will help them cook more evenly and reduce cooking time. The vegetables you’ll need to chop include the onion, zucchini, green and red bell peppers, raw potatoes, and sweet potato.

2. Cook the Turkey: In a large soup pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables: Add the minced garlic to the cooked turkey and sauté for 1 minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma. Next, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir well and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Create a Roux: Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter along with the flour. This mixture will help thicken the chowder. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to create a roux, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

5. Add the Liquids and Vegetables: Slowly add the chicken stock to the pot, stirring continuously to incorporate the roux and prevent any lumps. Once the stock is fully mixed in, add the frozen peas, frozen corn, diced potatoes, and diced sweet potato. Add salt, freshly chopped sage, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and black pepper to taste.

6. Simmer the Chowder: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

7. Incorporate the Half-and-Half: Ladle about 2 cups of the soup into a mixing bowl. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half cream to prevent it from curdling. Once combined, pour the mixture back into the soup pot, stirring frequently.

8. Add the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cubed Velveeta cheese, and processed cheese (if using). Continue to stir the soup until the cheeses are fully melted and the chowder has thickened to your desired consistency.

9. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. The chowder should be rich and creamy, with a subtle heat from the chipotle peppers.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnishing with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Sweet Potatoes: If you’re unsure about using sweet potatoes in the chowder, give it a try! The natural sweetness balances perfectly with the spiciness of the chipotle peppers, creating a depth of flavor that is surprising and delicious.
• Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can substitute the cheddar with a smoky cheese like Gouda or a spicy cheese like pepper jack for added flavor.
• Texture Adjustment: For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender and then return it to the pot before adding the cheese.
• Make Ahead: This chowder stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better with time! Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little more half-and-half if needed to maintain the creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

This Southwestern Cheesy Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy, cheesy twist. With its combination of ground turkey, vegetables, and two kinds of cheese, it makes for a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and full of flavor. The addition of sweet potatoes might seem unconventional at first, but they bring a surprising sweetness that complements the smoky chipotle peppers, creating a unique and memorable chowder. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends, whether on a chilly day or when you’re in the mood for something rich and flavorful.

Enjoy this hearty chowder that brings a southwestern flair to a classic favorite, and share the warmth with your loved ones!