Creamy Corn Chowder Soup

 

Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe

This hearty, comforting corn chowder is loaded with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon in a creamy broth. It's perfect for using fresh summer corn but works great with frozen or canned too. Serves 6-8. Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 1 carrot, diced (optional for extra flavor)

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 4 medium Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1.5 lbs)

• 4-5 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 6 ears) or frozen/thawed corn

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)

• 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh herbs

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: chopped chives, extra bacon, shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy (about 8 minutes). Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, celery, and carrot to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Add potatoes and corn: Stir in diced potatoes, corn kernels, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

4. Thicken the chowder: In a small bowl, whisk together milk and flour until smooth. Slowly stir this into the pot. Add the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes until thickened.

5. Blend for creaminess (optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, or transfer 2 cups to a blender and return to the pot.

6. Finish and serve: Stir in most of the cooked bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with reserved bacon, chives, or cheese.

This recipe is versatile—make it vegetarian by skipping bacon and using butter/veggie broth. Enjoy with crusty bread!