Description
This Creamy Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon is a rich, hearty soup packed with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon. The perfect comfort food for chilly days, this chowder is creamy, savory, and full of flavor!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chowder:
- 6 slices bacon (chopped)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled & diced)
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Base:
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Extra crispy bacon pieces
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Leave 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic, potatoes, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add corn and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
3. Make It Creamy
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1 minute, then whisk in milk and heavy cream.
- Stir the creamy mixture into the soup and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, and cheddar cheese.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers!
Notes
- Thicker Chowder? Mash some potatoes before adding the cream.
- Spicy Kick? Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Vegetarian Version? Skip the bacon and use butter or olive oil for sautéing.