Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes – A Hug in a Bowl

Some recipes have a way of transporting you back in time, wrapping you in the kind of warmth that only food made with love can provide. For me, corn chowder is one of those dishes.

Growing up, I spent summers at my grandparents’ house, where sweet corn was always in abundance. My grandmother, a firm believer in simple, hearty cooking, would turn that fresh corn into the most comforting chowder I had ever tasted. I’d watch her carefully slice the kernels off the cob, using the cobs to infuse the broth with an extra layer of flavor. The kitchen would fill with the aroma of sizzling bacon, buttery onions, and sweet corn, signaling that something special was simmering on the stove.

We would sit around the table, ladling generous portions of steaming chowder into bowls, topping it with crispy bacon and freshly chopped chives. No matter how hot the summer days were, that bowl of chowder felt like a hug from the inside out.

Now, I make this Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes for my own family. It’s become a tradition—something we turn to on rainy days, cozy weekends, and whenever we need a little extra comfort. It’s hearty, rich, and filled with layers of flavor that make every bite unforgettable.

If you’ve never made homemade corn chowder before, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.

Why This Corn Chowder is a Must-Try

Corn chowder is a timeless dish for good reason. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet, with a texture that’s both smooth and hearty. Here’s why this particular version stands out:

1. Rich and Creamy, Yet Light

Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this chowder achieves its silky texture with whole milk, making it lighter while still indulgently creamy. The potatoes add natural thickness, eliminating the need for extra thickeners.

2. The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

The natural sweetness of corn balances beautifully with the saltiness of bacon and the earthy depth of thyme and black pepper. Every bite delivers a well-rounded, satisfying flavor.

3. Packed with Hearty Ingredients

With tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, this chowder is a nutrient-dense, wholesome meal that feels like comfort food but is still full of good-for-you ingredients.

4. Easy to Make and Perfect for Meal Prep

This chowder comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

5. A Dish That Feels Like Home

There’s something special about homemade chowder—it’s warm, inviting, and made to be shared. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will always deliver that feeling of home-cooked comfort.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Bacon	4 slices, chopped
Unsalted Butter	1 tablespoon
Yellow Onion	1, diced
Celery	2 stalks, diced
Carrot	1 large, diced
Garlic Cloves	3, minced
Corn Kernels	3 cups (482g), cobs reserved if using fresh
Yukon Gold Potatoes	2 medium, peeled and diced (369g)
Chicken Broth	3 cups (720mL)
Whole Milk	2 cups (480mL)
Salt	2 teaspoons
Chopped Thyme	1½ teaspoons
Ground Black Pepper	½ teaspoon
Chopped Chives	For garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add butter, then stir in the onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Chowder: Stir in the corn, potatoes, chicken broth, salt, thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Creaminess: Pour in the whole milk and stir. Simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.
5. Blend for a Creamy Texture (Optional): Use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder for a thicker consistency, leaving some chunks for texture.
6. Serve & Garnish: Ladle into bowls, top with crispy bacon and fresh chives, and enjoy warm!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Nutrient	Value
Calories	320-350 kcal
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	14g
Fiber	5g
Sugar	8g

Ways to Customize Your Corn Chowder

One of the best things about corn chowder is its versatility. Here are a few ways you can personalize this recipe to suit your taste:

1. Add More Protein

For a heartier meal, try adding:

• Shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
• Diced ham or smoked sausage for a different take on the classic bacon flavor.
• Pan-seared shrimp for a seafood-inspired chowder.

2. Make It Extra Creamy

If you love a super rich and creamy chowder, you can:

• Replace half of the milk with heavy cream for a silkier texture.
• Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender to create a smoother consistency while keeping some chunky bits for texture.

3. Try Different Herbs & Spices

To change up the flavor profile, consider adding:

• A pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
• A bay leaf while simmering for a more complex depth of flavor.
• Fresh basil or parsley instead of thyme for a different herbal note.

4. Make It Vegetarian

For a meat-free version, simply omit the bacon and use:

• Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Extra vegetables like red bell peppers or zucchini for more texture.
• A little smoked paprika to replace the smoky flavor of bacon.

5. Give It a Spicy Kick

If you love spicy food, try adding:

• Diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• A few dashes of hot sauce stirred in before serving.
• Spicy chorizo instead of bacon for an extra flavorful twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?

Yes! While fresh corn gives the best flavor, frozen or canned corn works perfectly. If using canned corn, be sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the chowder.

2. What type of potatoes work best in this recipe?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, you can use Russet potatoes, but they will break down more and make the soup thicker.

3. How can I thicken my chowder?

This chowder is naturally thickened by the starch from the potatoes, but if you prefer an even thicker texture, try:

• Blending a portion of the soup and stirring it back in.
• Adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

4. How long does corn chowder last in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

5. Can I freeze corn chowder?

Yes, but without the milk. If you plan to freeze it, make the chowder without adding the milk, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat and stir in the milk just before serving.

6. What can I serve with corn chowder?

This chowder is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the creamy broth.
• A side salad for a fresh contrast.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort meal.

Final Thoughts – Why This Chowder Deserves a Spot on Your Table

There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm bowl of homemade corn chowder. It’s rich, creamy, loaded with comforting flavors, and brings back memories of family dinners, cozy nights, and the simple joy of a home-cooked meal.

This Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Potatoes is easy to make, incredibly delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy it on a cold evening, as a weekend treat, or as part of a family gathering, it’s the kind of dish that always brings comfort and joy.

So grab a spoon, take that first warm bite, and experience the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory goodness. Once you try this chowder, you’ll want to make it again and again!

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