There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of corn chowder. It’s like a warm hug in food form, perfect for chilly nights, lazy weekends, or whenever you’re craving a bowl of rich, creamy goodness. Bursting with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky hints of bacon, this simple-yet-hearty recipe will be your new go-to for an easy homemade meal. Plus, it’s highly customizable to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences!
If you’ve never made corn chowder before, don’t worry. This foolproof recipe will guide you every step of the way and leave you with a pot full of irresistible deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything to gather for this rustic, comforting dish. Most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge:
- 4 slices of bacon, diced (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 5 ears if fresh)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds great depth)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins for Customization:
- Shredded cheddar cheese for an extra indulgent finish.
- Diced red bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Crumbled sausage or diced ham instead of bacon.
- Coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative to cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Crisp up the Bacon
(You can skip this step if you’re making a vegetarian version!)
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot. If skipping bacon, just melt the butter directly in the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the butter to the pot (or more if needed) and toss in the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Seasonings
Toss the diced potatoes into the pot along with the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the potatoes in the flavorful mix.
Step 4: Add Corn and Broth
Pour in the corn and broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Blend (Optional for Creaminess)
For a smooth and creamy chowder, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup right in the pot. You can also transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, then return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunky chowder, skip this step. It’s all about your personal preference!
Step 6: Stir in the Cream
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream or milk. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the soup to warm back up, but don’t bring it to a boil to avoid curdling the cream.
Step 7 (Optional): Add Bacon and Garnish
Stir the crispy bacon back into the chowder (reserve some for topping if you like), then ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm.
Tips for the Perfect Corn Chowder
- Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh corn will give you the sweetest, most vibrant flavor, but frozen corn works wonderfully for convenience. Frozen corn also allows you to enjoy this dish year-round.
- Make It Thicker: For a thicker chowder, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch into 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup in Step 6.
- Spice It Up: If you like a kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This corn chowder stores well. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring well after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
Corn chowder pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits for dipping. You could also serve it in a bread bowl for a restaurant-style experience. On the side, a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables makes this meal even more satisfying.
Whether it’s a quiet evening or a small gathering with loved ones, corn chowder has a way of bringing everyone to the table, eager for seconds. Try this recipe out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire! Bon appétit!
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