This creamy corn chowder recipe is a comforting delight that combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes into a satisfying one-pot meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this chowder is not only easy to make but also sure to impress family and friends. Every spoonful offers a creamy texture and rich flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This chowder can be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon and fresh vegetables creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have at home!
- Comforting Dish: Ideal for cozy nights in or serving guests during special occasions.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in one pot.
Tools and Preparation
Before gathering your ingredients, make sure you have the right tools on hand. The right kitchen gadgets can make cooking a breeze!
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Kitchen knife
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the chowder evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
- Cutting board & Kitchen knife: These are vital for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your creamy corn chowder.
Ingredients
This creamy corn chowder recipe is loaded with sweet corn, crispy bacon, and hearty potatoes. It’s a really satisfying one pot meal that’s simple to make, and everyone will ask for seconds!
Base Ingredients
- 4 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped small)
- 3 sticks celery (chopped small)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped small)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Thickening Agents
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
Vegetables
- 4 cups frozen or fresh corn
- 2 large Russet potatoes (peeled & diced)
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Creamy Corn Chowder
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Add your bacon to a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook until crispy, which should take about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté them for 5 minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Flour
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Then add the flour, stirring constantly for about a minute.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth
Pour in the chicken broth while stirring well to dissolve the flour. Scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Mix in Cream and Vegetables
Add heavy cream, corn, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), and most of the cooked bacon back into the pot. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat.
Step 6: Simmer
Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a rapid simmer while covering slightly ajar. Cook until potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes), stirring occasionally as it thickens.
Step 7: Seasoning
Taste your creamy corn chowder and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with remaining bacon pieces on top!
Enjoy your deliciously warm bowl of creamy corn chowder!
How to Serve Creamy Corn Chowder
Serving creamy corn chowder can be a delightful experience that enhances the flavors of the dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this comforting soup.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Chives: Sprinkle fresh chives on top for a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
- Parsley: Add chopped parsley for a fresh, herbal note that brightens the chowder.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with crispy garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.
For Extra Flavor
- Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can add a spicy kick to the chowder.
- Grated Cheese: Top with shredded cheddar cheese for a rich and savory finish.
With Toppings
- Bacon Bits: Add extra crispy bacon bits on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can provide creaminess and tanginess to the dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Corn Chowder
Perfecting creamy corn chowder is all about balancing flavors and textures. Follow these tips to enhance your chowder experience.
- Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn gives the best sweetness and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s high quality.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, let it simmer longer or add more flour; stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Enhance Flavor: Incorporate a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to deepen the flavor profile.
- Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for variety and nutrition.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chowder to sit for a few hours or overnight can meld the flavors beautifully.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat while stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Corn Chowder
Pairing side dishes with creamy corn chowder can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the chowder well.
- Coleslaw: Tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the creamy texture of the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an ideal match that echoes the sweet corn in the chowder.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide both flavor and nutrition, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side that complements the chowder’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making creamy corn chowder can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your dish.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your corn and vegetables. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the flavor of your chowder.
- Skipping the bacon: Bacon adds a smoky flavor that is essential to this recipe. Don’t omit it; instead, use good-quality bacon for the best results.
- Overcooking the potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, as they can turn mushy. Aim for tender potatoes that still hold their shape.
- Not seasoning properly: Taste before serving. Adding salt and pepper at the end can elevate your chowder. Adjusting seasoning ensures a balanced flavor.
- Forgetting to thicken: Make sure to cook the flour long enough to remove raw flavor before adding broth. This step is crucial for a creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Creamy corn chowder lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Corn Chowder
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Creamy Corn Chowder
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making creamy corn chowder, you’re not alone. Here are some common queries answered.
What is creamy corn chowder?
Creamy corn chowder is a comforting soup made with sweet corn, potatoes, and often includes bacon for added flavor.
Can I make creamy corn chowder vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I make creamy corn chowder thicker?
To thicken your chowder, allow it to simmer longer or add more flour mixed with water. You can also use mashed potatoes as a thickening agent.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a delightful sweetness and crunch. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the soup.
How long does creamy corn chowder last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, creamy corn chowder can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
This creamy corn chowder recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. The combination of sweet corn, crispy bacon, and hearty potatoes makes this dish a true comfort food that everyone will love. Try making it today!
Creamy Corn Chowder
Creamy Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with family and friends. This rich, velvety soup combines sweet corn, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes in a delightful one-pot meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. In under an hour, you can whip up this hearty dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s no wonder this chowder has become a beloved staple in many homes. Enjoy it on chilly nights or serve it at your next gathering—it’s sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 sticks celery (chopped)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large Russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside on paper towels.
- Retain about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot; sauté the onion, celery, and carrots for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds. Stir in flour, cooking for one minute while stirring constantly.
- Pour in chicken broth, stirring well to dissolve flour; scrape any brown bits from the pot.
- Mix in heavy cream, corn, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), and most of the cooked bacon.
- Bring mixture to a boil over high heat; then reduce to a rapid simmer while covering slightly ajar. Cook until potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot, garnished with remaining bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
