Save A comforting, velvety chowder packed with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a hint of smoky bacon—perfect for chilly days.
I first served this chowder on a cold autumn evening and it quickly became a family favorite for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes: peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels:
- 1 small onion: finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks: diced
- 1 medium carrot: diced
- 2 cloves garlic: minced
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth:
- 1 cup whole milk:
- 1 cup heavy cream:
- 4 slices bacon: diced (omit for vegetarian)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter:
- 1 bay leaf:
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh chives or parsley: chopped
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Drain excess fat leaving 1 tablespoon in the pot. (If vegetarian, skip this step and use 1 tbsp olive oil instead.)
- Step 2:
- Add butter to the pot. Sauté onion celery and carrot for 4 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 3:
- Stir in potatoes corn bay leaf and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5:
- Remove bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup leaving some chunks for texture.
- Step 6:
- Stir in milk and cream. Heat gently (do not boil) for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 7:
- Ladle into bowls garnish with reserved bacon and chives or parsley.
Save This chowder has been a staple at our family dinners especially during cold months when we gather to share warmth and comfort food.
Required Tools
Large soup pot Knife and cutting board Slotted spoon Immersion blender (or potato masher) Ladle
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk cream butter) May contain gluten if using commercial broth—check labels Bacon contains pork omit for vegetarian diets
Nutritional Information
Calories 370 Total Fat 20 g Carbohydrates 38 g Protein 9 g
Save Serve this chowder hot with crusty bread for a complete comforting meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the dish rich and flavorful without meat.
- → What is the purpose of partially pureeing the chowder?
Partially pureeing preserves some texture while creating a creamy base, giving the chowder a smooth yet chunky consistency.
- → Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works well and is a convenient alternative that maintains the sweet corn flavor.
- → Which spices enhance the smoky flavor in this dish?
Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth, complementing the optional bacon to enrich the overall flavor.
- → What side dishes pair well with this chowder?
Crusty bread or soft dinner rolls complement the chowder, perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.