Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Corn Chowder is a rich, comforting soup that highlights the natural sweetness of corn with a velvety, savory base. Loaded with tender potatoes, crisp veggies, and a touch of cream, this chowder is satisfying and cozy without being too heavy. It’s perfect as a main course or a comforting side, especially during cooler months or when fresh corn is in season.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)potatoes (peeled and diced)oniongarliccelerycarrotsbutter or olive oilflour (for thickening)vegetable or chicken brothheavy cream or milkthymebay leafsaltblack pepperoptional toppings: crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, green onions
directions
Heat butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots; sauté until softened.
Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the broth until smooth and combined.
Add potatoes, corn, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Remove bay leaf and stir in cream or milk; heat through without boiling.
Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot with desired toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCook time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes
Variations
Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Add chopped jalapeño or cayenne for a spicy kick.
Stir in diced cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Swap some of the corn for creamed corn to boost sweetness and texture.
Top with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Soup can be frozen, but cream-based soups may slightly separate; stir well after reheating.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn?
Yes, just drain it first—frozen or fresh works equally well.
Is this soup vegetarian?
Yes, if using vegetable broth and omitting bacon toppings.
Can I blend part of the soup?
Yes, blend a portion and return it to the pot for extra creaminess.
What’s the best potato to use?
Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work best for texture.
Do I have to use flour?
No, you can skip it or use cornstarch to thicken instead.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it reheats well—just add broth or cream if it thickens.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Only if using cornstarch or a GF flour substitute.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk and oil, and skip the dairy or use vegan cream.
What goes well with this soup?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or a green salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
Creamy Corn Chowder is a deliciously hearty soup that blends sweetness, richness, and comfort in every spoonful. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up and keep you full. Whether made with summer corn or pantry staples, this chowder is a feel-good favorite any time of year.
PrintCreamy Corn Chowder
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and comforting creamy corn chowder made with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and aromatic vegetables in a velvety broth, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in corn, potatoes, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture, or blend half of it in a blender and return to the pot.
- Stir in milk and cream. Heat through but do not boil.
- Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, add chopped cooked bacon or smoked paprika.
- To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions.
- This chowder thickens as it sits; thin with extra broth or milk when reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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