Hearty homemade corn chowder is creamy and comforting, perfect for cozy meals. It pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp garden salad that adds brightness and a zingy contrast.
Crusty bread, whether sourdough or multigrain, is ideal for dipping, soaking up the rich chowder flavors and adding satisfying texture. A grilled cheese sandwich brings melty cheese and buttery crunch, creating a nostalgic, comforting combo.
Together, these sides enhance the chowder experience, making every bite more delicious and balanced.
It was a cool autumn evening when I decided to whip up a pot of corn chowder. There’s something incredibly cozy about a bowl of chowder on a chilly day. It warms the soul and, let’s be honest, is a hug in a bowl.
As a registered dietitian and food blogger who has spent countless hours in the kitchen, I’ve developed a recipe that highlights the flavor of fresh, sweet corn while incorporating nourishing ingredients.
This chowder is not just food; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. So, let's step into the kitchen and explore the magic of hearty homemade corn chowder.
Hearty homemade corn chowder is a creamy, soul-soothing dish made primarily from sweet corn, potatoes, and seasonings.
It’s thickened to perfection and boasts an inviting richness that makes it a favorite in many households. This recipe combines fresh ingredients with carefully curated flavors.
When crafting this chowder, I considered several factors to ensure it stands out.
1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn adds a natural sweetness that canned corn simply cannot deliver. Fresh corn is at its best when harvested, and sweet corn is exceptionally juicy and flavorful, especially in late summer.
2. Combination of Textures: The contrast between the creamy base, tender potatoes, and crunchy cooked bacon creates a delightful range of textures. Each spoonful offers a unique experience!
3. Flexibility in Preparation: This chowder can be whipped up on a weekend and enjoyed throughout the week. Make a big batch, and it’s rather forgiving. You can freeze leftovers or adjust ingredients to fit dietary preferences, making it a staple for everyone.
4. Nutritional Balance: With the inclusion of potatoes, corn, and garlic, this chowder isn’t only comforting but provides a decent balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, ensuring it’s satisfying without being overly heavy.
Gather these ingredients for a bowl of deliciousness:
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create your chowder masterpiece.
In a large pot, over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Sauté it until it becomes golden brown and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Next, add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent, around 4-5 minutes. The smell? Absolutely intoxicating!
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the flour is lightly toasted. This creates a roux, which will help thicken our chowder later on.
Gradually pour in the filtered water while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Add the chunks of potatoes, thyme, mustard, salt, and pepper to taste.
This mix will cook together for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, it’s time to add the corn. Stir in the kernels along with smoked paprika and white pepper.
Let this mixture simmer for an additional 10 minutes. The corn will soften and infuse the chowder with a sweet flavor.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream along with the crispy bacon you set aside.
This step brings the chowder to a silky richness. Allow everything to warm through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Maybe add a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.
And there you have it—a bowl of hearty homemade corn chowder that will leave you wanting more.
Here are some tips that I’ve gathered through practice to make your chowder experience even better:
Hearty Homemade Corn Chowder Nutrition Facts
If you have some delicious chowder left, you can store it easily. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, it will remain fresh for about 3-5 days.
If you're planning to enjoy it later, consider freezing it. Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
Hearty homemade corn chowder stands strong on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal.
1. Lightly Toasted Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread, toasted to perfection, provides a delightful crunch with every bite. The garlic flavor complements the chowder's richness wonderfully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Choices like asparagus, brussels sprouts, or carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs will add color and flavor to your plate. The earthiness of roasted veggies nicely contrasts the sweetness of the chowder.
3. Cheddar Biscuit: Fluffy, cheesy biscuits can serve as a fantastic companion to the chowder. Their buttery texture and sharp cheese balance the creamy goodness perfectly.
Running out of something? No problem! Here are some substitutes:
1. Corn: If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen or canned corn will suffice. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned corn before using it.
2. Potatoes: You can use sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor and a boost of nutrition.
3. Bacon: Try using turkey bacon or smoked tempeh if you're looking for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
4. Cream: If you want to keep it lighter, use skim milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat, though it may alter the chowder's richness slightly.
Creating a bowl of hearty homemade corn chowder is a journey filled with flavor, comfort, and warmth.
Each ingredient plays a role, harmonizing beautifully to create satisfying bites. Whether you’re enjoying it after a long day, sharing it with family, or bringing it to a gathering, it’s bound to be a hit.
Trust me, once you try this chowder, it might just become a staple in your meal rotation. So, fire up those pots, gather your ingredients, and dive into a delicious masterpiece that warms the heart and fills the belly. Enjoy!
It was a cool autumn evening when I decided to whip up a pot of corn chowder. There’s something incredibly cozy about a bowl of chowder on a chilly day. It warms the soul and, let’s be honest, is a hug in a bowl.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Here are some tips that I’ve gathered through practice to make your chowder experience even better:
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Kathleen Looney is a Texas-based registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Comfort Food Recipes, where she shares simple, hearty dishes that bring warmth and joy to the table. Combining her love for Southern classics and Tex-Mex flavors, Kathleen creates approachable recipes that balance indulgence and nutrition. Her passion lies in helping home cooks prepare comforting, soul-satisfying meals that nourish both body and spirit.