If there’s one dish I could eat any time of the year, it’s corn chowder. Recently, I tried a recipe passed down by my husband’s grandmother, and wow, what an experience! The creamy, hearty soup instantly became a favorite in our house.
With its rich flavors, tender potatoes, and a savory hint of bacon, this chowder hits the spot every time. The best part? It’s so simple to prepare, yet it feels like comfort in a bowl. Trust me, whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving a crowd, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your kitchen repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Looking for reasons to make this your new go-to dish? Here are a few that’ll have you grabbing your pot and heading to the kitchen right away.
1. Simple to Prepare
Corn chowder is surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. You’ll cook everything in one pot, keeping cleanup minimal. Plus, the ingredients are straightforward and easy to find.
2. Creamy and Comforting
The combination of cream-style corn and half-and-half gives this soup a velvety texture. Every spoonful feels indulgent, but it’s not overly heavy, making it perfect for any occasion.
3. Highly Customizable
This recipe is a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. Want to add some spice or mix in leftover veggies? Go for it! You can tailor it to suit your taste buds or pantry stash.
4. Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike adore the sweet and savory flavors of this corn chowder. It’s comforting and satisfying for everyone at the dinner table.
5. Great for All Seasons
Corn chowder isn’t just for winter! Whether it’s a cold evening or a mild summer day, this dish transitions beautifully across the seasons.
Cooking Time
Whipping up a warm bowl of corn chowder doesn’t mean hours in the kitchen. Here’s how the cooking time stacks up:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
You’ll need simple ingredients to bring this chowder to life:
- Bacon
- Potatoes
- Onion
- Cream-style corn
- Water
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
- Half-and-half
Variations
Add your touch with these variations, or adapt the recipe to fit specific dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap half-and-half with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy, non-dairy alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red chili flakes for some heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of water for a flavorful vegetarian chowder.
- Extra Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for added heartiness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Pot: To cook everything in one place.
- Knife: For chopping ingredients.
- Cutting Board: To safely prep your veggies.
- Small Saucepan: For warming the half-and-half.
How to Make Corn Chowder Recipe?
Making this corn chowder is as enjoyable as eating it. The process is fun, simple, and incredibly rewarding. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon 🥓
Start by cooking diced bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until nice and crispy. This takes about 5-7 minutes. The rendered bacon grease will add loads of flavor to the soup.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggies 🥔
Add chopped potatoes and onion to the pot. Sauté them for a few minutes until they begin to soften slightly. The combined aromas will make your kitchen smell incredible!
Step 3: Simmer with Corn and Water 🌽
Now it’s time to mix in the cream-style corn, water, and seasonings. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Warm the Half-and-Half 🍶
Meanwhile, warm the half-and-half in a small saucepan just until it starts to bubble. Make sure it doesn’t boil! Mix it into the chowder once the potatoes are soft.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy! 🍲
Give the chowder one last stir and ladle it into bowls. Garnish with crispy bacon bits or fresh herbs, and enjoy the warm, creamy goodness.
Tips for Making the Recipe
Follow these tips to take your corn chowder to the next level!
- Potatoes That Shine: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the creamiest texture.
- Control Saltiness: If your bacon has a lot of salt, start with less and adjust later.
- Warm the Half-and-Half: Gradually warming it prevents curdling when it hits the hot chowder.
- Don’t Skip Stirring: Stir frequently to keep the creamy soup from sticking to the pot.
How to Serve Corn Chowder Recipe
Presentation is part of the joy of eating! Ladle the chowder into rustic bowls for a cozy feel. Top each serving with crispy bacon, freshly cracked black pepper, or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values per serving of this delicious corn chowder:
- Calories: 255
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 9g
Make Ahead and Storage
Corn chowder tastes incredible as leftovers, so feel free to make it ahead!
If refrigerating, store the soup in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring every so often to revive its creamy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Just remember to leave out the half-and-half before freezing (add it after reheating to avoid any texture changes).
This corn chowder recipe has everything you need for a warm, satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting family and friends, it’s guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your home, too!