There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of chowder to comfort the soul and this Creamy Potato Corn Chowder hits all the right notes. Brimming with tender Yukon Gold potatoes, sweet kernels of corn, and a luscious blend of milk and cream, this soup is a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and subtly sweet flavors. The added touch of crispy bacon provides a smoky depth that takes the entire dish to the next level.
Whether you’re curling up on a rainy day or hosting a cozy fall dinner, this chowder makes an irresistible centerpiece. It’s filling enough to be a main course and comforting enough to satisfy every craving. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal that brings comfort straight to your table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups diced Yukon Gold potatoes
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3 cups frozen sweet corn (or fresh)
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 cup whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker chowder)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
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In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pot.
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Add diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until onion is soft and translucent.
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Stir in potatoes, corn, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
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Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
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In a small bowl, mix flour with a bit of milk to create a slurry (optional for thicker chowder). Stir it into the soup.
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Add milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until creamy and heated through.
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Adjust seasoning if needed.
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Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Creamy Potato Corn Chowder
Hearty Homestyle Potato & Sweet Corn Chowder
When it comes to soul-warming, belly-filling meals that bring comfort with every bite, few recipes compare to a rich and creamy chowder. This Creamy Potato Corn Chowder is the ultimate cold-weather companion, thick, hearty, and full of familiar flavors that evoke the warmth of home. This dish is a staple in many kitchens for good reason: it’s simple to make, easy to customize, and truly satisfying. From its humble ingredients like potatoes, corn, and bacon to the velvety base of milk and cream, this chowder offers a perfect combination of comfort and nourishment.
Chowder, a type of thick soup traditionally made with seafood or vegetables and cream, has long been a favorite in North American cuisine, especially in the Northeast. While New England Clam Chowder often takes the spotlight, variations like corn chowder and potato chowder have won the hearts of families looking for easy, budget-friendly meals that don’t skimp on flavor. This particular version, featuring both potatoes and corn, is a delicious hybrid that makes the most of two pantry staples, elevating them into a luscious, creamy meal that works year-round, but especially in the colder months.
What makes this chowder stand out is its versatility. You can use fresh corn when it’s in season for a sweet and juicy pop, or rely on frozen or canned corn during the off-season with equally tasty results. Yukon Gold potatoes, known for their naturally buttery texture and golden hue, are the perfect choice for this chowder, as they hold their shape well and provide a soft, creamy bite that complements the soup’s velvety texture. The savory base is built on crisped bacon and sautéed onions, with a gentle infusion of garlic and thyme to add depth without overpowering the naturally sweet corn.
Another winning feature of this chowder is its simplicity. Made in just one pot, it minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The milk and cream add a silky richness that coats the palate without being overly heavy. A touch of flour helps thicken the soup to just the right consistency, not too thin, but not so thick it feels like a stew. If you’re dairy-free, you can even substitute with unsweetened plant-based milk and omit the cream altogether. You’ll still have a cozy and flavorful result that satisfies.
The key to a good chowder lies in the balance of textures and the layering of flavors. The crispy bacon adds saltiness and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the potatoes and the smoothness of the broth. Stirring in the bacon at the end, or sprinkling it on top as a garnish, preserves that delightful crunch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds brightness and a bit of color, making your bowl of chowder not just delicious, but visually appealing as well.
This chowder is a great choice for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or meal prepping for the week ahead. It stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just warm it up slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the texture.
Serving Ideas:
Pair your creamy potato corn chowder with warm, crusty bread, a sourdough boule or a flaky biscuit are perfect companions. Add a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chowder. If you’re looking to bulk up the meal, a side of grilled cheese or roasted veggies will turn it into a hearty dinner for the whole family. For a fun twist, serve it in a bread bowl or top with shredded cheddar and a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Customizations & Substitutions:
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Want more protein? Add shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham. Looking to go meatless? Skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the vegetables. For a spicy version, stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. You can also mix in other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. The chowder welcomes variety without compromising its essence.
Nutritional Note:
While this dish is comfort food at its finest, it also provides a nice mix of nutrients. Potatoes are a great source of potassium and fiber, while corn offers natural sweetness and vitamin C. Adding in protein-rich bacon (or a leaner alternative) and healthy fats from the milk and cream rounds out the meal. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk and replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free substitute like oat or almond creamers.
Why You’ll Love It:
This creamy potato corn chowder has everything you could want in a comfort dish, warmth, flavor, and heartiness. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It can easily be scaled up for crowds or adjusted for picky eaters, and its straightforward method ensures even beginner home cooks can make it with confidence. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night, cooking for the holidays, or just in the mood for something warm and filling, this chowder delivers every time.
Conclusion
In a world filled with trendy dishes and complicated cooking methods, sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. Creamy Potato Corn Chowder is one of those timeless meals that never goes out of style. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and undeniably comforting. With each spoonful, you’ll taste the balance of sweet corn, tender potatoes, savory bacon, and velvety broth, a combination that soothes the soul and fills the stomach.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. Whether you serve it to loved ones during the holidays, whip it up for a quiet night in, or make a big batch to freeze for later, this chowder is sure to find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So, grab your favorite soup pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a bowl of pure comfort.