Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe

If you are craving a bowl of pure comfort, look no further than this Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe. It’s the kind of hearty soup that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful, combining sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon in a velvety, luscious broth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want to indulge in a satisfying meal, this chowder’s rich texture and wonderful balance of flavors will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes. It’s as cozy as it is delicious, making it perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component is carefully chosen to build layers of taste, from the crispy bacon fat that adds a smoky undertone to the sweet crunch of fresh or frozen corn, and the creamy potatoes that give the chowder its comforting body.

• Bacon (4 strips): Provides a smoky, crispy base that infuses the chowder with rich flavor and fat for sautéing veggies.
• Onion (1/2 medium, chopped small): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
• Celery (3 sticks, chopped small): Contributes a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that balances rich elements.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled & chopped small): Offer natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings warmth and a hint of pungency to the chowder.
• Flour (1/4 cup): The thickening agent that helps create the chowder’s signature creamy texture.
• Chicken broth or stock (4 cups): Forms the flavorful liquid base, making the chowder savory and hearty.
• Heavy or whipping cream (1 cup): Gives the soup its luxurious creaminess and richness.
• Corn (4 cups, frozen or fresh): The star ingredient, providing sweetness and texture.
• Russet potatoes (2 large, peeled & diced): Add heartiness and help thicken the chowder as they cook down.
• Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle blend of herbs that adds an herbal warmth without overpowering.
• Cayenne pepper (1 pinch, optional): For a gentle spicy kick that livens up the chowder.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning to perfection and enhancing all the other flavors.

How to Make Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

First, grab your kitchen shears and cut the bacon strips into bite-sized pieces. Add these to a large pot set to medium-high heat. Cook the bacon until it’s beautifully crispy, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step not only crisps the bacon but also releases fat that will be the flavor base for the chowder.

Step 2: Remove Bacon and Keep the Fat

Once the bacon reaches crispy perfection, scoop it out and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of that flavorful bacon fat right in the pot—a secret ingredient to elevating your vegetable sauté.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Into that hot bacon fat, toss your finely chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Let them cook for around 5 minutes until they soften and start to meld together into a fragrant base for the chowder.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. This brief cooking releases its aroma without becoming bitter, layering in subtle complexity.

Step 5: Make the Roux

Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for a minute or so. This step is key, as cooking the flour helps it to lose any raw taste and creates the thick, creamy consistency you love in chowders.

Step 6: Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth slowly, stirring as you go to dissolve the flour evenly and scrape up those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth and richness to your chowder’s flavor.

Step 7: Add Cream, Corn, Potatoes, and Seasonings

Now for the comforting heart of the dish! Pour in the cream, stir in the corn and diced potatoes, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper if you like a touch of heat, and most of the cooked bacon, saving a little for garnish. Turn the heat to high and bring the pot to a boil.

Step 8: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer and leave the pot partially covered with the lid ajar. Let the chowder bubble gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are perfectly tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure everything cooks evenly. The chowder will thicken beautifully during this time.

Step 9: Season and Garnish

Finally, taste your chowder and add salt and pepper as needed to bring out all the flavors. Serve it up hot, generously topped with the reserved crispy bacon pieces for that extra punch of smoky crunch.

How to Serve Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling crispy bacon over the chowder bowls adds inviting texture and visual appeal. Fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or thyme brighten the dish with vibrant green notes, while a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheddar cheese can add richness and tang if you want to get indulgent.

Side Dishes

This chowder pairs beautifully with simple crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls—perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of creamy broth. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette gives a crisp contrast to the chowder’s richness, rounding out your meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe in rustic bread bowls for a charming, comforting experience that’s also practical. For a fun twist, ladle the chowder over baked potatoes or puff pastry cups to turn it into a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a drizzle of chili oil can elevate presentation with color and a subtle flavor pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This chowder tastes just as wonderful the next day, as the flavors have time to meld even more. Cool the leftovers to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute any settled ingredients.

Freezing

You can freeze this chowder, but keep in mind the texture of potatoes may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the chowder without cream and add it in fresh when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent scorching and to ensure even warming. If the chowder is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Finally, stir in the cream if you held it back for freezing.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes besides Russet?

Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative; they hold their shape well and add a buttery flavor. Just avoid waxy potatoes as they may not soften properly for a creamy texture.

Is it okay to use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe and is actually a convenient option year-round. Just make sure it’s thawed before adding to ensure even cooking and sweetness.

Can I make this chowder vegetarian?

You can, by skipping the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add smoky, savory flavors, try adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke and sauté the veggies in olive oil or butter.

How spicy does the cayenne pepper make the chowder?

Just a pinch of cayenne adds a gentle warming heat that complements the sweetness of the corn without overpowering the dish. It’s totally optional and easy to adjust based on your heat preference.

What’s the best way to reheat without the soup separating?

Reheat slowly over low heat while stirring often, and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Adding the cream at the end prevents curdling and keeps the chowder silky and smooth.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl and truly a joy to make and share. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, its rich, hearty flavors never fail to impress. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy the simple pleasures of home-cooked food.

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