There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Corn Chowder on a crisp day. Creamy, savory, and loaded with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon, this cozy chowder checks every box when you’re craving something hearty and warm. Whether you’re making it in summer with fresh corn or pulling it together in the colder months with frozen kernels, this recipe delivers rich, down-home flavor with every spoonful.
The base starts with smoky bacon, then layers in aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a gentle kick of cayenne pepper. Yukon gold potatoes add a creamy bite, and a final swirl of heavy cream brings everything together in a luxuriously smooth finish. It’s the perfect bowl to cozy up with on chilly evenings, and it’s even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Comfort in a Bowl: Rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: A handful of pantry staples become something special.
• Versatile: Make it with fresh or frozen corn and swap the broth to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Even better the next day after flavors have melded.
• Make It a Meal: Hearty enough to stand alone, but pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of bread.
Ingredients:
• 4 slices bacon, coarsely chopped
• ½ large onion, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for a gentle kick)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup heavy cream, warmed to room temperature
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel–lined plate, reserving the bacon grease in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Over medium heat, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the bacon grease. Cook until the onion is translucent and the celery is tender—about 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Reduce the heat slightly. Stir in the minced garlic and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the Flour
Increase heat to medium. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a light roux.
Step 5: Add Broth and Vegetables
Slowly pour in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the chopped potatoes, corn, and most of the cooked bacon (save a bit for garnish). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low and let the chowder simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the chowder has thickened slightly.
Step 7: Add Cream and Herbs
Remove the pot from the heat. Slowly stir in the room-temperature heavy cream and chopped thyme. Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
Tips:
• Corn Options: Fresh, frozen, or even canned corn works here—use what you have!
• Thicker Chowder? Mash a few of the potatoes in the pot or blend a small portion and stir it back in.
• No Cream? Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be slightly lighter.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon—sauté the veggies in butter or olive oil.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating:
Refrigerator:
Store cooled chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors get even better as it sits!
Freezer:
Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note: Cream-based soups may change texture slightly after freezing but are still tasty.
Reheating:
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring often until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Corn Chowder is the ultimate cozy comfort food—thick, creamy, and brimming with flavor in every bite. It’s just right for curling up on the couch or serving at a family dinner. Easy to make, even easier to love.
