Creamy Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon

Short Description

This Creamy Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon is a rich, hearty, and comforting soup packed with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy family dinners, this chowder is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Thick, creamy, and full of flavor
• Loaded with crispy bacon and sweet corn
• Comforting and easy to make in one pot
• Perfect for meal prep and reheating
• Customizable with seafood, chicken, or extra veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chowder:

• Bacon, chopped
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Potatoes, diced
• Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Milk
• Butter
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)

Seasoning & Spices:

• Salt and black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Thyme (dried or fresh)
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra crispy bacon
• Chopped green onions or chives
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan)

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving some bacon grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the bacon grease.
2. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Corn

1. Stir in diced potatoes and corn.
2. Pour in chicken broth, then add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

1. In a small bowl, whisk flour with milk until smooth.
2. Stir the mixture into the chowder and simmer until thickened.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, and cheese.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Seafood Corn Chowder: Add shrimp or crab meat.
• Spicy Kick: Use jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper.
• Chicken Corn Chowder: Stir in shredded cooked chicken.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free: Replace flour with cornstarch slurry for thickening.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months (without cream—add after reheating).
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding milk if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen or canned corn?

Yes! Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work well.

How do I make the chowder thicker?

Use more flour or mash some of the potatoes into the broth.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead.

What’s the best potato for chowder?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture.

Can I add cheese to the chowder?

Yes! Stir in shredded cheddar for extra richness.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or dairy-free cream substitutes.

What can I serve with corn chowder?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh side salad pair perfectly.

Can I use ham instead of bacon?

Yes! Diced ham adds a delicious smoky flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4–6 hours, adding cream at the end.

Is this chowder spicy?

It’s mild, but you can add cayenne or hot sauce for heat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you serve it on a cold night or as a comforting meal anytime, this dish is easy to make and sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a cozy, homemade classic!

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