Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Corn Chowder is a comforting, hearty soup perfect for any season. It combines sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a rich creamy base for a satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Step 4: Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
5. Step 5: Add the corn kernels, diced potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through without boiling.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cream.
• Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Add cooked bacon or smoked sausage for extra flavor and texture.
• Fresh corn gives the best sweetness, but frozen and canned corn work well and save time.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much after cooling, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this chowder vegan?

Yes. Use vegetable broth and substitute butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream substitute.

Can I freeze creamy corn chowder?

While it can be frozen, the cream may separate and affect texture. Freeze without cream and add it fresh when reheating for best results.

Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 109 reviews

This Creamy Corn Chowder is a comforting and hearty soup featuring sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines a savory blend of sautéed onions and garlic with the smoothness of heavy cream and a hint of thyme for an irresistible flavor.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced

Broth and Cream

• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Other Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Create Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste and to thicken the base.
3. Add Broth and Vegetables: Slowly pour in the vegetable or chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and corn kernels to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Season and Add Cream: Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chowder to thicken and the flavors to meld.
5. Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy corn chowder hot with crusty bread or your favorite garnish.

Notes

• For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cream.
• Use fresh corn in season for the best flavor, or frozen corn as a convenient alternative.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but note that the chowder will be less rich.
• Add cooked bacon or chopped green onions as toppings for extra flavor and texture.
• To make the chowder vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Keywords: corn chowder, creamy corn soup, potato soup, vegetarian chowder, comfort food