Corn Chowder: 1 Ultimate Comfort Bowl

September 25, 2025

Corn chowder has been a staple in my kitchen for as long as I can remember, a comforting hug in a bowl. This particular creamy corn chowder recipe came about after a chilly autumn evening when I craved something warm and deeply satisfying. The aroma of sweet corn and savory bacon filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. It’s so wonderfully simple corn chowder to whip up, and the result is a thick, flavorful soup that tastes like it simmered all day. Let’s get cooking this delightful corn chowder!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort that you’ll want to make again and again. Here’s why this creamy corn chowder recipe is a winner:

Quick Prep: It’s surprisingly fast to get this chowder on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Utterly Comforting: The combination of sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon is warmth in every spoonful.
Versatile Flavors: Easily adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs, from vegetarian to dairy-free.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters adore this delicious soup.
Rich Flavor: The depth of flavor comes from simple ingredients and a smart technique for a truly satisfying meal.
An Easy Corn Chowder: You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to master this recipe; it’s genuinely straightforward.
Hearty Corn Chowder: It’s substantial enough to be a main course, especially when served with your favorite sides.
Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the taste of a homemade soup made with love.

Corn Chowder Ingredients

Gathering these key corn chowder ingredients makes this beloved soup a breeze to prepare. The foundation of this corn chowder with potatoes starts with the basics, but don’t underestimate their importance!

6 slices Bacon, diced – this adds a wonderful smoky depth that you just can’t replicate.
1 large Onion, chopped – provides a sweet and savory base.
1 medium Carrot, diced – adds a touch of sweetness and color.
2 stalks Celery, diced – brings a fresh, slightly peppery note.
1 lb Yukon Potatoes, diced – these creamy potatoes hold their shape beautifully and make the chowder hearty.
3 cups Corn Kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) – the star of the show, providing that signature sweet corn flavor.
4 cups Chicken Broth (or vegetable broth) – the liquid base that carries all the delicious flavors.
1 cup Milk (or almond milk) – adds creaminess and body to the soup.
1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half) – for that luxurious, rich texture that makes it a truly comforting chowder.
1 teaspoon Sea Salt – enhances all the other flavors.
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper – a classic pairing for savory dishes.
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper – just a pinch for a subtle warmth.
1/4 cup Chives, fresh – for a fresh, oniony garnish.

How to Make Corn Chowder

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying bowl of corn chowder. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring you get a wonderfully thick corn chowder every time.

Step 1: First, let’s make our corn stock. Carefully cut the corn kernels from the cobs, setting the kernels aside. Don’t discard those cobs! Place the reserved corn cobs into a large pot along with 4 cups Chicken Broth and 1 cup Milk. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This step infuses the broth with a subtle, sweet corn flavor, crucial for the best chowder.
Step 2: While the corn stock is simmering, prepare the base of your chowder. In a separate Dutch oven or large, heavy-bottomed pot, cook the 6 slices Bacon, diced over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon drippings in the pot.
Step 3: Add the 1 large Onion, chopped, 1 medium Carrot, diced, and 2 stalks Celery, diced to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté these vegetables for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
Step 4: Now, it’s time to add the main components. Stir in the 1 lb Yukon Potatoes, diced, the reserved 3 cups Corn Kernels, 1 teaspoon Sea Salt, 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper.
Step 5: Pour the prepared corn stock (remember to remove and discard the corn cobs before pouring!) into the pot with the vegetables and potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This simmering period is essential for how to make corn chowder flavorful and cooked through.
Step 6: Stir in the 1 cup Heavy Cream for that signature creamy texture. Heat gently for another 2-3 minutes, but do not let it boil. Taste the chowder and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle the hot chowder into bowls, and garnish generously with the reserved crispy bacon bits and fresh 1/4 cup Chives, fresh. Enjoy this comforting bowl of homemade goodness!

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Pro Tips for the Best Corn Chowder

Want to elevate your corn chowder game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this soup truly exceptional.

For an incredibly rich flavor, always use the corn cobs to make your stock. It adds a sweetness you can’t get any other way.
Don’t skip sautéing the mirepoix (onion, carrot, celery) until they’re nice and soft; this builds a crucial flavor base for your soup.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end! A little extra salt or pepper can make a huge difference.
If you like a little zest, a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving brightens up all the flavors beautifully.

What’s the secret to a perfect creamy corn chowder?

The real secret to a perfect creamy corn chowder is using the corn cobs to create an infused stock. This simple step adds an unparalleled depth of sweet corn flavor, making it the best corn chowder you’ll ever taste.

Can I make corn chowder ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This corn chowder actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it completely, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop. For more great recipes, check out our collection of recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with corn chowder?

A common pitfall is overcooking the potatoes, which can make them mushy. Simmer them just until tender. Also, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end, as broth and bacon can vary in saltiness. Learn more about proper cooking techniques on Food Network.

Best Ways to Serve Corn Chowder

Enjoying this delicious corn chowder is an experience in itself, and pairing it with the right sides makes it even better. These simple additions transform a comforting bowl of soup into a complete, satisfying meal.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisan sourdough is perfect for dipping into this hearty soup. Its chewy texture and slightly tangy flavor complement the sweetness of the corn beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: For a lighter contrast, serve your chowder with a fresh side salad. A mix of crisp greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to balance the richness of the soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a classic comfort food pairing, a gooey grilled cheese sandwich alongside your bowl of corn chowder is simply unbeatable. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!

When exploring other chowder recipes with corn, you’ll often find similar pairings that highlight the soup’s creamy, savory notes. For instance, you might enjoy our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole for another hearty meal option.

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Nutrition Facts for Corn Chowder

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delightful corn chowder. It’s a hearty soup that offers a good balance of nutrients.

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 5 g
Protein: 10 g
Cholesterol: 40 mg
Sodium: 800 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if making dairy-free or vegetarian variations. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult resources like the USDA MyPlate.

How to Store and Reheat Corn Chowder

One of the best things about this homemade corn chowder is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep! Once your delicious corn chowder has cooled down completely, transfer it to airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 to 4 days. This means you can easily have a warm bowl ready for lunch or dinner on busy weeknights. If you’re looking for other make-ahead meals, consider our Coconut Chicken Meatballs.

If you want to keep your chowder for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Pack it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion. Your corn chowder can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally, and if it seems a bit thick, just add a splash of milk or broth to bring back that perfect creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions About Corn Chowder

What kind of corn is best for corn chowder?

You can use fresh, frozen, or canned corn for this easy corn chowder. Fresh corn kernels cut right off the cob offer the sweetest flavor and are ideal if they’re in season. Frozen corn is a fantastic year-round alternative and often retains its sweetness and texture well. Canned corn is the quickest option, but I find it can be a bit less sweet, so you might want to add a touch more sweetener or just embrace its convenience! For more tips on corn, see The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

Can I make this corn chowder vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this a delicious vegetarian corn chowder, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a smoky flavor that bacon provides, I recommend adding about 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sautéed vegetables. This simple swap ensures you still get that wonderful depth of flavor without any meat. You might also like our Indian Butter Chicken Recipe, which can be adapted for vegetarians.

What is corn chowder and how is it different from other soups?

What is corn chowder? It’s a thick, creamy soup where corn is the primary ingredient, usually featuring potatoes and often bacon or other savory additions. Unlike a broth-based soup, chowder has a richer, heartier consistency, often thickened with cream, milk, or a roux. This recipe leans into that classic chowder style with its creamy texture and substantial ingredients. For a different kind of hearty soup, try our Hamburger Mushroom Bake.

How can I make my corn chowder spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, it’s easy to spice up your corn chowder! You can add more cayenne pepper, as called for in the recipe, or try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the vegetables. For a deeper, more complex heat, consider adding a finely minced jalapeño along with the onions and carrots.

Variations of Corn Chowder You Can Try

This basic corn chowder recipe is fantastic on its own, but I love how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. If you’re looking for new ways to enjoy this comforting soup, here are a few ideas that are always a hit in my kitchen.

Vegetarian Corn Chowder: For a meat-free version, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. To add a smoky depth, stir in about 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika with the sautéed vegetables. This makes for a delicious vegetable corn chowder that’s just as satisfying.
Spicy Corn Chowder: Craving a little heat? Amp up the spice by adding extra cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or even a finely diced jalapeño pepper when you sauté the onions and carrots. It adds a wonderful kick to the sweet corn.
Chicken Corn Chowder: To make this a heartier meal, add shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!) during the last 5-10 minutes of simmering. It transforms the soup into a robust and filling main course. For other chicken dishes, explore our Chinese Style Mango Chicken Stir Fry.
Dairy-Free Corn Chowder: Easily make this recipe dairy-free by using unsweetened almond milk or oat milk and a full-fat canned coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You can also use additional vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.