Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe: A Comforting and Flavorful Meal

Name: Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
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; 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

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy corn chowder. This classic dish is a perfect blend of sweetness from the corn, richness from the cream, and a savory depth from the bacon. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this creamy corn chowder will hit the spot. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to create this delicious dish, complete with tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Corn Chowder

Corn chowder is a beloved dish for many reasons. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be adjusted to suit various dietary preferences. This recipe, in particular, is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy texture and savory-sweet flavor profile. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh or frozen corn, making it a versatile option for any time of the year.

Rich and Creamy Texture

The combination of heavy cream and potatoes creates a luscious, velvety texture that makes this chowder irresistibly rich. Each spoonful is a delightful mix of smooth broth and tender vegetables.

Savory Bacon Flavor

The bacon in this recipe not only adds a deliciously smoky flavor but also provides a crispy contrast to the creamy chowder. By cooking the vegetables in the rendered bacon fat, you infuse the entire dish with a savory depth that’s hard to beat.

Sweetness of Corn

Corn kernels bring a natural sweetness to the chowder, balancing the savory elements and adding bursts of flavor in every bite. Whether you use fresh or frozen corn, the results are equally satisfying.

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Corn Chowder

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this comforting dish:

4 slices bacon, coarsely chopped
The bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture, serving as both a base for sautéing vegetables and a garnish for the finished dish.
½ large onion, chopped
Onions provide a foundational flavor, adding a mild sweetness and depth to the chowder.
2 ribs celery, chopped
Celery offers a slight bitterness and crunch, balancing the richness of the chowder.

2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
Carrots add a touch of sweetness and color to the chowder, making it visually appealing and flavorful.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic infuses the chowder with a rich, aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference.

¼ cup all-purpose flour
Flour is used to create a roux, thickening the chowder and giving it a creamy consistency.
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
Broth serves as the liquid base, providing flavor and helping to cook the vegetables.
3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for chowder because of their creamy texture when cooked.

3 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen
Corn is the star of the dish, providing sweetness and texture.
1 cup heavy cream, warmed to room temperature
Heavy cream adds richness and a smooth finish to the chowder.
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
Thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note that complements the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the cream.

Kosher salt, to taste
Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, making the chowder more savory.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Black pepper adds a touch of spice and rounds out the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Corn Chowder

1. Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the coarsely chopped bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until the bacon becomes brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with a paper towel, leaving the bacon grease in the pot. This bacon grease will be used to sauté the vegetables, infusing them with a rich, smoky flavor.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the reserved bacon grease in the pot. Cook over medium heat until the onions and celery become tender. This step helps build the base flavor of the chowder. Lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic and ground cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. The cayenne pepper adds a gentle warmth that complements the other flavors.

3. Make the Roux

Increase the heat back to medium and sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook the flour and create a roux. The roux will help thicken the chowder, giving it a creamy consistency. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps. This will create a smooth, flavorful base for the chowder.

4. Simmer the Chowder

Add the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, corn kernels, and most of the cooked bacon (reserve a small portion for garnish) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. The potatoes will thicken the chowder further as they cook, and the corn will become tender and sweet.

5. Finish with Cream

Remove the pot from the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Adding the cream at the end ensures the chowder remains creamy without curdling. Stir in the chopped fresh thyme to add a fragrant, herbal note to the dish. Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

6. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. Serve hot for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips and Variations

Customize the Vegetables

Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like bell peppers, leeks, or mushrooms. This chowder is versatile, and you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Make It Vegetarian

To make a vegetarian version of this chowder, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can sauté the vegetables in olive oil or butter for a rich flavor.

Add Protein

For an even heartier meal, consider adding shredded chicken or cooked shrimp to the chowder. This will make the dish more filling and add an extra layer of flavor.

Spice It Up

If you like your chowder with a bit of heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving of this creamy corn chowder:

Calories: 340 kcal
Total Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 700mg

Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 6g

Protein: 10g

This chowder is rich and satisfying, making it a perfect option for a comforting meal. While it’s not low in calories or fat, it’s full of flavor and can be enjoyed as an indulgent treat.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this chowder ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to adjust the consistency if needed.

2. Can I freeze corn chowder?

While you can freeze corn chowder, the texture may change slightly when thawed due to the cream and potatoes. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cream until you reheat the chowder. Add the cream after reheating for the best texture.

3. What can I serve with corn chowder?

Corn chowder pairs well with a variety of sides, such as crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a simple side of roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious served in a bread bowl for a more filling meal.

4. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use canned corn if that’s what you have available. Just be sure to drain and rinse the corn before adding it to the chowder. Fresh or frozen corn will have a slightly better texture, but canned corn works in a pinch.

5. How can I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?

If your chowder is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered until it reduces to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Conclusion

This Creamy Corn Chowder is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and creamy flavors. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, this chowder is bound to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different