Name: Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 strips thick cut bacon, diced; 1/2 sweet onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated; 4 cups yellow corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn); 1 russet potato, peeled and cubed; 2 chipotle chilies in adobo, chopped; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 3 cups low sodium chicken broth; 2 cups whole milk; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Chopped green onions, for serving

This Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder is the perfect blend of cozy and summery. Sweet corn, smoky chipotle peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese come together in a creamy, slightly spicy chowder that’s hearty yet fresh. It’s a quick one-pot meal that’s full of bold flavor and texture—and it’s ready in under an hour without heating up your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chowder checks every box: it’s easy, flavorful, and fast. Made with simple ingredients and cooked in the Instant Pot, there’s minimal prep and cleanup required. The sweet corn balances the heat of the chipotle, while the cheddar adds rich creaminess. Whether you’re cooking on a weeknight or using up late-summer produce, this chowder is a satisfying, one-bowl meal with a unique smoky kick. Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder.

Ingredients

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

thick-cut bacon
sweet onion
garlic
yellow corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
russet potato
chipotle chilies in adobo
kosher salt and black pepper
low sodium chicken broth
whole milk
shredded sharp cheddar cheese
fresh cilantro
chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions

Instant Pot Method

Set the Instant Pot to sauté. Add diced bacon and cook until crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Drain excess bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot. Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in garlic, corn, potatoes, chopped chipotle chilies, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and mix well.
Seal the lid, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Use quick or natural release to release the steam.
Transfer half of the chowder to a blender and pulse until slightly smooth but still chunky. Return to the pot.
Set the Instant Pot to sauté. Stir in milk and cheese. Cook for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the chowder thickens slightly. Stir in chopped cilantro.
Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and green onions.

Slow Cooker and Stovetop directions are also available and follow similar steps.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like bell pepper or zucchini.
Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or grilled shrimp after blending.
Extra creamy: Blend in ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer texture.
Less spicy: Use only one chipotle pepper or substitute with a dash of smoked paprika.
Cheese swap: Try smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the consistency. This chowder can also be frozen for up to 2 months—cool completely before freezing, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly and requires no thawing before adding to the pot.

How spicy is this chowder?

It has a medium level of heat. You can adjust by adding more or fewer chipotle chilies.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this on the stove or in a slow cooker using the alternate instructions provided.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well and the flavors deepen as it sits.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like smoked gouda or Monterey Jack.

Do I have to blend the chowder?

Blending half the chowder gives it a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for bite. You can blend more or less depending on your preference.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, poblano peppers, or carrots would all work well.

How can I thicken the chowder more?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes after adding the cheese, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your broth and chipotle chilies for additives.

Can I use dairy-free milk and cheese?

Yes, use your preferred unsweetened dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives. Coconut milk works well for creaminess.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder is the perfect fusion of comfort and summer freshness. It’s bold, smoky, cheesy, and deeply satisfying—made with wholesome ingredients and ready in under an hour. Whether you’re using farm-fresh corn or frozen kernels, this chowder brings flavor to your table without the hassle. Make a big batch, pair it with crusty bread, and enjoy a bowl of cozy goodness anytime.