EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (1)

Jamielyn Nye
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This corn chowder recipe is easy to make with fresh, frozen or canned sweet corn, potatoes and bacon. It’s a creamy and crowd-pleasing homemade soup all year-round.

EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2)

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Table of Contents

  • Easy Corn Chowder Recipe
  • Recipe Ingredients
  • How to Make Corn and Potato Chowder
  • Cooking Tips
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More Soup Recipes You’ll Love
  • Corn Chowder Printable Recipe

Easy Corn Chowder Recipe

All I crave during the fall season are soup recipes. Sometimes I’ll even make homemade bread bowls to serve them in. This recipe has amazing flavor and a thick and creamy texture. It’s one of my favorites to make, as well as ham and potato soup and chicken pot pie soup.

We love this delicious corn chowder on a chilly fall day. This corn chowder is very filling and a recipe that the whole family will enjoy. I love this time of year and making lots of hearty comforting soups like this, my clam chowder, gumbo recipe or seafood stew for dinner.

If you’d like to add in more veggies, you can also add in some shredded carrots, bell peppers and chopped celery. I like to top my bowl of soup the same way as this loaded potato soup with extra bacon pieces, shredded cheese and green onions then serve with crusty french bread.

Recipe Ingredients

EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (3)

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

  • Corn: I like to use a mixture of corn and creamed corn to add to the overall flavor and texture.
  • Bacon: The fat from the bacon is the perfect base to cook the onions and impart more of that salty goodness.
  • Potatoes: Red potatoes hold their shape well and still absorb the soup flavors.
  • Butter: This adds just a little but more creaminess and fat.
  • Onion: The onion is cooked in the bacon fat which helps balance the sweetness.
  • Chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a nice richness to the soup, but vegetable broth will work as well.
  • Milk: This is where the chowder gets its creaminess from, and I like to use a 2% or whole.
  • Flour: This is necessary to thicken the chowder and give it the right consistency.
  • Toppings: I love to add cheese and green onions to the top, but it is completely up to you.

How to Make Corn and Potato Chowder

EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (4)
  1. Cook. Brown the bacon in a large pot, then place on a paper towel lined plate. Leave about 1/2 Tablespoon of the grease in the pan and add in the butter and onions. Cook for about 3 minutes, then stir in the flour. Slowly stir in the chicken broth.
  2. Simmer. Next mix in the red potatoes, drained corn, creamed corn, salt and nutmeg. Bring to a light bowl and then let simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
  3. Thicken. Stir in the milk and continue simmering until the soup begins to thicken. Then remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Tips

  • Type of corn. I love using a mix of both plain corn and creamed corn as it gives the perfect creamy texture, but you could definitely use one or the other if you prefer. Fresh or frozen corn will also work. Sometimes I’ll mix in some grilled corn for more flavor.
  • Bacon grease. After cooking the bacon, make sure to keep some of the bacon grease in the pan. It adds amazing flavor to the soup. I usually keep about 1/2 Tablespoon in the pan, but feel free to use a little more or less.
  • Make creamier. For a creamier consistency, try blending some of the soup. Start with blending about 1/4 cup, then add blended portion back in. Continue to blend in 1/4 increments until desired texture is reached.
  • Cheese. I like to add shredded cheese on top of my soup, however you can mix it into the whole pot to make it a cheesy corn chowder.
  • Extra veggies. To sneak in more veggies, try including shredded carrots, bell peppers or celery. Simply mix them in with the onions and butter.
EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (5)

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this corn chowder vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon and swap the chicken broth for a vegetable broth.

Can I use fresh-shucked corn?

Sure, you will need 1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels instead of the 1 can of corn. I would still keep the creamed corn to give the chowder its creaminess and enhance the corn flavor.

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EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (10)

Corn Chowder

4.93 from 13 votes

↑ Click stars to rate now!

Author: Jamielyn Nye

A comforting and delicious corn chowder soup packed with corn, potatoes and bacon. Full of flavor and simple to make. This is the perfect recipe for the fall or winter!

Servings: 6

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Ingredients

  • 6 strips bacon
  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 6 small red potatoes , chopped and peeled, if desired
  • 1 (15-ounce) can corn
  • 1 (15-ounce) can creamed corn
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt
  • teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups whole milk , warmed
  • Ground black pepper , to taste

Optional toppings: Shredded cheese and Sliced green onions

    Instructions

    • In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium-high heat. Once cooked, remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1/2 Tablespoon grease in the pot.

    • Add the butter and onions. Cook 3 minutes then whisk in the flour. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth.

    • Add the potatoes, corn, creamed corn, salt, and nutmeg. Bring to a light boil and simmer 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork tender.

    • Stir in the milk and simmer until it begins to thicken. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

    • Top with cheese and green onions, if desired, for serving.

    Notes

    Blend: To make creamier, try blending the soup. Blend 1/4 cup first, then mix back in. Continue to blend in 1/4 increments until desired texture is reached.

    Store: This chowder will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 288kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 1054mg | Potassium: 593mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 388IU | Vitamin C: 16mg | Calcium: 118mg | Iron: 1mg

    Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.

    Course: Soup

    Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!

    EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (11)

    Categorized as: American, Dinner, One Pot, One Pot, Pork, Soups, Stovetop, Stovetop

    EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (12)

    Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is also the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook. Here you will find easy family-friendly recipes for every occasion.

    More about Jamielyn Nye

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    Add a comment

    27 comments

        • Jamielyn Nye

        I haven’t tried in the slow cooker yet, but I would add to the slow cooker after step 3. Then cook on low about 3-4 hours. You may need to create a roux at the end if it’s not thickening.

        • Reply
      • Samantha
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (17)

      Another delicious recipe! My kids wanted a second bowl!

      • Reply
      • Rachael Yerkes
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (18)

      This chowder is a go to for fall comfort dinners at this house. so creamy and delicious!

      • Reply
      • Julia Frey
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (19)

      I love the tip of using a combination of creamed and plain corn. That definitely improved the texture of the chowder. A huge winner in our house!

      • Reply
      • Bart Ender
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (20)

      Super easy. A double batch disappeared in a half hour so it must be good.

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn Nye

        I’m so glad you enjoyed it! :)

        • Reply
      • Jeannine Meador
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (21)

      A similar corn chowder won first prize at a soup cook off in our subdivision last month and I was driven to copy it. SO thanks to you I did. I never like it when people say I made your soup ‘but’…however, I just had to share with you that now that Campbells has come out with Cream of Sweet Corn soup that is to die for I substituted that for the can of creamed corn and used half and half instead of milk and being lazy…a can of diced potatoes.Luckily it is fresh corn season here in Florida so using fresh was a no brainer. And as you suggested I added a stalk of celery and a large carrot chopped and sautéed with the onion…great addition. Thanks so much for all your work and for sharing…without you I would never have figured out how to make great corn chowder. :-) And now I’m off to make another pot of Your prize winning corn chowder…my neighbors are waiting. Have a great weekend.

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn

        Love this story! Thanks for sharing! Glad you enjoyed the recipe :)

        • Reply
      • Elizabeth

      Do you know if this will freeze well? I’m looking for some good make ahead soup recipes

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn

        I haven’t tried freezing it, but I think it should freeze well! The texture might change just a bit. :)

        • Reply
      • Margaret

      When does the bacon go in? I see you cook a few extra pieces to top it with. I’m assuming it just goes in the pot at the end?

      • Reply
        • Jamielyn

        Hi Margaret! Yes, just stir them in at the end! :)

        • Reply
      • Karalee Metcalf
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (22)

      One of my family’s favorites in a cold evening! The ultimate comfort food to warm your belly and your soul.

      • Reply
      • Wanda Teegarden

      I tried the recipe tonight and I have a couple of questions. Do you drain the corn before you add to the soup? Do you pour the grease out of the pan before you add the butter and onions?
      Thanks

      • Reply
        • Rachel Sweeney
        • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (23)

        Wanda I’m wondering the same things – what did you do and how did yours turn out? If yours was too watery maybe I’ll try draining the grease and the corn.

        • Reply
        • Jamielyn

        Yes I do drain the corn and leave about 1/2 Tablespoon grease in the pan. :)

        • Reply
      • Jocelyn (Grandbaby Cakes)
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (24)

      This looks insanely comforting.

      • Reply
      • Anna
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (25)

      I could eat this chowder every day! I wish I had a big bowl right now!

      • Reply
      • susie liberatore

      Yum I love this idea!! sounds so delicious

      • Reply
      • Allyson Zea

      Corn chowder looks so comforting! I bet I can make this in my instant pot!

      • Reply
      • Catalina
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (26)

      I am always ready for a corn chowder! This one looks fantastic!

      • Reply
      • Dan Zehr
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (27)

      What a tasty looking dish! Cannot wait to try this! Love! Thank you for sharing this great recipe.

      • Reply
      • Chrissie Baker
      • EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (28)

      I love it! I am going to try this out. Thank you for sharing this great recipe. YUM!

      • Reply
      • Dorothy at Shockinglydelish

      This soup has all my favorite parts of potato soup. Then you made it even better with corn!

      • Reply
        • wanda

        Can you tell me if you drain the corn before you add it to the soup. Also, do you drain off the bacon grease before you add the butter to cook the onions? Or is the grease a part of the soup?

        • Reply
          • Jamielyn

          I drain the corn juice in and leave the bacon grease in the pan! :)

      EASY Corn Chowder Recipe - I Heart Naptime (2024)

      FAQs

      How do you thicken corn chowder? ›

      Cornstarch is a great option as it is a natural thickening agent, but you'll want to be careful about how much you use. Start with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch whisked together with cold water to create a slurry. Then, gradually add the slurry to the soup, letting it boil for one to two minutes before adding more.

      Can I add milk to soup to make it creamy? ›

      Milk or Half-and-Half: This is the other magical ingredient that turns your homemade chicken noodle soup into the creamiest soup ever. Use 1 cup of whole milk or 1 cup of half-and-half.

      How long is corn chowder good for in the fridge? ›

      Tips & Notes: Store leftover corn chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat corn chowder on the stove or in the microwave. To freeze, skip adding the half and half during the final step, add it in when you are reheating the soup.

      What is corn chowder made of? ›

      Onion, celery, garlic, and red bell pepper – They create the savory base of the soup. Yukon Gold potatoes – They add delicious chunks to this corn chowder recipe, and they contribute to its creamy texture. Old Bay Seasoning – It adds more savory flavor and a hint of spice. Smoked paprika – For smokiness.

      Is it better to thicken chowder with flour or cornstarch? ›

      The most classic and surefire way to thicken a broth-based soup is with a cornstarch slurry. Whisk together equal parts cornstarch (or arrowroot) and water or broth, then whisk it into the pot of soup. A good ratio to get to a pleasant thickness without your soup tasting goopy or heavy is one tablespoon.

      Will heavy cream thicken corn chowder? ›

      Heavy cream: Not only does heavy cream make this chowder wonderfully smooth, rich, and creamy, but it also helps the chowder to thicken slightly. You could substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk, but I don't think they are as good as the cream and more prone to curdling.

      When should I add milk to my soup? ›

      Add dairy ingredients when the soup is simmering on low to reduce the chance of curdling. You can also mix a small amount of soup into your dairy first to temper it, and then add it back to the pot.

      When should I add cream to soup? ›

      If you started the soup with broth, stock or water, I would wait until the end to add the cream. You can warm the cream, or “temper” it, which is what I do. Take about half a cup of the hot broth and slowly add your cream to that, stirring constantly.

      What happens if you add milk to soup? ›

      To balance flavors: Milk can help to tone down the acidity in soups, making them more palatable. To enrich the broth: Adding milk to soups can increase their nutrient content, particularly if you use whole milk. To thicken the soup: Milk can also help to thicken soups, making them more filling.

      Can I eat week old leftover soup? ›

      Leftovers can be kept for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. After that, the risk of food poisoning goes up. If you don't think you'll be able to eat leftovers within four days, freeze them right away. Frozen leftovers will stay safe for a long time.

      What do you eat with corn chowder? ›

      The best side dishes to serve with corn chowder are cornbread, BLT sandwiches, birria quesadillas, sautéed mushrooms, potato pancakes, Hawaiian roll breakfast sliders, Italian sausage, tuna salad without mayo, gluten-free bread, steamed vegetables, bacon-wrapped shrimp, tomato bruschetta, baked sweet potato, Caprese ...

      Can you leave corn chowder out? ›

      Food should not be at room temperature for more than two hours. Shallow containers or small amounts of hot food can be placed directly in the refrigerator or rapidly chilled in an ice or cold water bath before refrigerating. Cover foods to retain moisture and prevent them from picking up odors from other foods.

      What thickens chowder? ›

      You can start with 2 tablespoons of flour for every 1 cup of liquid as a general rule of thumb. To make a smooth paste, combine the flour with a small amount of cold liquid. Stir the paste gradually into the soup. To allow the flour to thicken the mixture, cook and stir it for a few minutes.

      What ingredient does chowder always have? ›

      Customarily, chowder included onion, potatoes, and cream. Nowadays, not all chowders adhere to these guidelines.

      What is usually a main thickening agent of chowder? ›

      Roux (pronounced roo) is a mixture of equal weights (parts) of flour and fat (usually clarified butter; chicken fat, bacon fat, and margarine are also used) cooked over medium heat and stirred constantly. Roux is the most common thickener for sauces and soups.

      How do you fix watery corn chowder? ›

      Add Flour Or Cornstarch

      Instead, ladle a small amount of broth into a separate bowl and let it cool. Add a few tablespoons of flour or cornstarch to the bowl and whisk until it's blended smooth. Next, bring the soup to a simmer and add the mixture back to the pot. Pro tip: Don't dump in the entire mixture at once.

      How do you make chowder less watery? ›

      Add flour or cornflour

      Put a tablespoon of either into a small bowl and stir in 2-3 tbsp of the soup until you have a smooth mixture. Stir this back into the soup and bring it to a simmer. Cook for a few minutes to allow the starch granules to burst to thicken, and to cook out any flour flavour.

      How do you thicken leftover chowder? ›

      Here are three conventional thickeners:
      1. Just add Milk. Milk has often been an easy choice to thicken soups and broths for several reasons: You usually have some in your kitchen, it's easy to find some at your local grocer, and it's cheap. ...
      2. Make Roux for thicker soup (Butter and flour) ...
      3. Use Your Favorite Kind of Starch.

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