When I first made this 5-ingredient potato and corn chowder, I couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste this good. The comforting aroma of bacon sizzling, combined with the creamy goodness of corn and potatoes, quickly made it a family favorite in my home. This recipe is a lifesaver for busy evenings or when you need a quick yet hearty dish to warm you up. Trust me, once you’ve made it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation.
What I love most about this recipe is how straightforward it is. No fancy equipment or advanced cooking skills are needed. Just five basic ingredients, a pot, and 30 minutes of your time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, you’ll feel like a pro making this chowder! Now, I can’t wait to share exactly why you’ll fall in love with this dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Quick & Easy to Make
Weeknight dinners are often a race against time, and this chowder is the perfect solution. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a piping-hot bowl of comfort in no time. It’s minimal effort, maximum reward.
Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
Five ingredients—that’s it! Each one pulls its weight, from the smoky richness of bacon to the creamy corn. Together, they create a wholesome, flavorful soup that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.
Versatile and Customizable
This chowder is endlessly adaptable. You can switch out ingredients to suit your dietary needs, toss in some extra veggies, or spice it up for a bit of heat. The possibilities are truly endless.
Budget-Friendly
With simple and affordable pantry staples, this chowder is kind to your wallet without compromising on taste. It’s proof that great food doesn’t need to be expensive.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a quick lunch, a cozy weeknight dinner, or part of a larger feast, this chowder suits any setting. Serve it solo or with crusty bread, and you’ve got a winning dish.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Bacon
- Chicken stock
- Canned creamed corn
- Yellow potatoes
- Green onions
Variations
If you’d like to tweak this recipe to meet dietary needs or preferences, here are a few variations:
Ingredient Swaps
- Use vegetable stock and eliminate bacon for a vegetarian version.
- Substitute turkey bacon or low-sodium bacon to reduce the salt content.
- For a dairy-free alternative, check that your creamed corn variety doesn’t include dairy.
Add-Ins
- Add a kick of spice by sprinkling in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Stock pot – For cooking everything in one go.
- Slotted spoon – To scoop out crispy bacon.
- Sharp knife – For easy chopping.
- Blender/Immersion blender – To create the perfect creamy texture.
How to Make 5-Ingredient Potato and Corn Chowder?
Step 1: Cook the Bacon 🥓
Start by crisping up the bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and golden, remove it with a slotted spoon and leave about three tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot. That’s where all the flavor is hiding!
Step 2: Add Soup Ingredients 🥔🌽
Toss the chicken stock, creamed corn, cubed potatoes, and chopped green onions into the pot. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook until the potatoes are tender but not mushy, roughly 15 minutes.
Step 3: Blend It Up 🌀
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, purée about half the soup. This step gives the chowder its creamy consistency while leaving some hearty chunks for texture. Be careful not to blend it all, as the mix of smooth and chunky makes this dish extra special.
Step 4: Bacon and Finish 🌟
Crumble the crispy bacon into the soup, stir to combine, and reheat gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with remaining green onions or your favorite toppings. Serve and enjoy! 🥣
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Fat: The bacon fat adds a smoky, rich flavor to the base of the chowder. If you remove it, you’ll lose a lot of the dish’s depth.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well and give the chowder a perfect texture. Avoid starchy potatoes, as they may break down too much.
- Blend Less for More Texture: If you like your soup chunkier, purée only a quarter of the mix. Adjust the blending to suit your preference.
- Adjust the Consistency: For thicker chowder, cook it down a little longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of extra stock to thin it out.
How to Serve 5-Ingredient Potato and Corn Chowder?
This chowder is a cozy delight served as is, but you can elevate it even further with a few presentation ideas. Pair it with some warm crusty bread or crackers on the side. Garnish the bowl with chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can also add a pop of color and freshness to each serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional details per serving of this hearty dish:
- Calories: 394
- Protein: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 57 g
- Fat: 13 g
Make Ahead and Storage
Making this chowder ahead of time is a great idea for meal prep or leftovers.
- Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
- Freezing: This chowder also freezes exceptionally well! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Note that the bacon might lose a bit of its crunch, but the flavor will still be fantastic.