This Creamy Corn Chowder is a comforting, hearty soup perfect for any season, especially as the weather starts to cool down. It’s filled with tender corn kernels, creamy broth, and a mix of vegetables that make every bite deliciously satisfying. Whether served as a main dish or alongside a sandwich or salad, this corn chowder will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn if using fresh)
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon (Optional)
If you’re using bacon, heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the butter (or just use the bacon fat) and melt it over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Corn and Potatoes
Stir in the corn kernels and diced potatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the thyme. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Chowder (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker chowder, whisk the flour into the heavy cream or half-and-half until smooth. Stir the cream mixture into the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the chowder to thicken.
Step 6: Season and Add Bacon
Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste. If you cooked bacon earlier, stir in the crispy bacon bits now or sprinkle them on top when serving.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the creamy corn chowder into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Fresh corn will give the chowder an extra burst of flavor, but frozen corn works just as well and saves time.
- Blending: For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the chowder using an immersion blender or regular blender. Blend about half of the soup and stir it back into the pot for a perfect balance between creamy and chunky.
- Make It Vegetarian: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Variations
1. Spicy Corn Chowder
Add 1 finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the chowder a spicy kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.
2. Seafood Corn Chowder
Stir in shrimp, crab meat, or clams during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to turn this into a hearty seafood chowder.
3. Cheesy Corn Chowder
Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese to the chowder after adding the cream for a cheesy, indulgent version of the classic.
4. Vegan Corn Chowder
To make this chowder vegan, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and skip the bacon. You can also use a vegan butter substitute.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version of this chowder, make the following adjustments:
- Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips to lower the carb count.
- Use heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for creaminess.
- Skip the flour and instead let the soup reduce naturally or blend a portion to thicken.
These changes will maintain the rich flavor while keeping the chowder low-carb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes! This chowder can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this corn chowder?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. However, if using cream, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To avoid this, freeze the chowder before adding the cream, then stir in the cream when reheating.
Q: How can I make this chowder thicker?
You can thicken the chowder by blending a portion of it, adding flour, or even stirring in mashed potatoes or a bit of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water).
Q: What can I serve with this chowder?
This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or even a simple green salad. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or seafood.
This Creamy Corn Chowder is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and hearty flavors that will warm you up and satisfy your comfort food cravings. Whether you serve it as a main course or a side, this chowder is versatile, easy to make, and customizable for any diet or preference. Try it out for a cozy dinner, and don’t forget the toppings to make it extra special!
