Corn Chowder Recipe

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Creamy, cozy, and packed with sweet corn and savory bacon, this Corn Chowder Recipe is the perfect comforting dish for cooler nights or a satisfying lunch any time of year. Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it a favorite for the whole family. With a balance of vegetables, smoky bacon, and a touch of creaminess, every spoonful is hearty and comforting.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or alongside a crusty piece of bread, this chowder never fails to impress. It’s quick to make, requires simple pantry ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-worthy taste without the fuss. A true classic with a homestyle touch.

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Why You’ll Love This Corn Chowder Recipe

• Cozy & Filling: It’s thick, rich, and full of texture from potatoes, corn, and crispy bacon.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen.
• Versatile: Easy to adapt with extra veggies or make it vegetarian.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy, slightly sweet flavor.

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What Kind of Corn Should I Use?

You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn for this recipe—all work beautifully! If corn is in season, fresh kernels sliced right off the cob offer unbeatable flavor and texture. Frozen corn is a great year-round option and easy to keep on hand. If you’re in a pinch, canned corn is perfectly fine—just be sure to drain it well.

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Ingredients for the Corn Chowder Recipe

This Corn Chowder comes together with a handful of wholesome, flavorful ingredients that bring depth and heartiness to every bite.

• Bacon: Adds smokiness and rich, salty depth to the soup.
• Butter: Used to sauté vegetables and adds a velvety finish.
• Yellow Onion: Essential for a sweet, savory base flavor.
• Garlic: Brings warmth and depth to the broth.
• Carrots: For color, natural sweetness, and a bit of crunch.
• Celery: Adds a layer of aromatic flavor and slight bitterness.
• Potatoes: Makes the soup hearty and filling with their creamy texture.
• Corn Kernels: The star of the show! Sweet and juicy.
• Chicken Broth: Creates the savory liquid base for the chowder.
• Heavy Cream: Brings luxurious creaminess and body.
• Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning and balance.
• Chopped Parsley or Chives: A fresh, herby garnish.

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How To Make the Corn Chowder Recipe

This chowder is made in layers to build up the deep, comforting flavor you crave. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Cook chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a few tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add butter to the pot. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add the Corn and Cream

Mix in the corn kernels and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer another 5-10 minutes to let everything meld.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

For a thicker chowder, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup directly in the pot. Leave some chunks for texture.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in half the cooked bacon and sprinkle the rest on top when serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.

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How to Serve and Store This Corn Chowder Recipe

This Corn Chowder is best served hot, straight from the pot with a sprinkle of crispy bacon and fresh herbs on top. Pair it with a warm slice of sourdough bread or a side salad for a well-rounded meal. This recipe makes about 6 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or for meal prepping throughout the week.

To store leftovers, let the chowder cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the chowder, though the texture may slightly change due to the cream. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

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What to Serve With Corn Chowder?

1. Crusty Artisan Bread

Dip a thick slice into the creamy chowder for a hearty, comforting bite.

2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A melty, crispy grilled cheese makes the ultimate comfort food pairing.

3. Fresh Garden Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini for a colorful plate.

5. Baked Potatoes

For an extra hearty meal, serve with a simple baked potato topped with sour cream.

6. Pickled Vegetables

A bit of acidity from pickled onions or cucumbers cuts through the creaminess.

7. Garlic Breadsticks

Add some garlic and butter to your breadsticks for a flavorful side.

8. Apple Slices or Fruit Salad

A light, sweet finish complements the savory notes of the chowder.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Corn Chowder Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.

What Type of Potatoes Work Best?

Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal. Yukon golds hold their shape well and add creaminess, while russets break down more and thicken the soup.

Can I Freeze Corn Chowder?

You can! Let it cool completely and freeze in individual portions. Just be aware that creamy soups can change texture slightly after freezing. Stir well when reheating.

How Can I Make It Spicier?

Add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables or stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Can I Use Milk Instead of Cream?

Yes, whole milk works fine if you’re looking for a lighter option. The chowder will be less rich but still flavorful.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you blend it smooth or leave it chunky? Did you use fresh or frozen corn?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food favorites on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to cozy meals!

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