If you are craving a hearty bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, this Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe is your new best friend. Combining sweet, juicy corn with crispy bacon and tender potatoes in a rich, creamy broth creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds. It’s the kind of soup that brightens chilly evenings and satisfies hungry appetites without fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is as inviting as it is delicious, bringing all those cozy kitchen vibes to your table with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marble surface with a white plate holding chopped yellow potatoes with skin on the top left, and next to it on the right is a small white bowl with diced green celery. Below the celery is a copper measuring cup filled with diced red bell pepper. At the bottom left, there are four ears of yellow corn arranged side by side, and on the right side, a whole potato rests on a white and blue striped cloth that stretches across the surface. Above the plate, a small white dish contains a heap of red spice powder. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each adds something special to the dish: the smoky bacon builds depth, the sweetness of the corn sings through, the potatoes add a comforting heartiness, and the creamy broth ties everything together in a velvety embrace.

Bacon (6 slices, chopped): Crispy and smoky, it lends irresistible flavor and texture.
Butter (1 tbsp): Used to sauté onions, it adds a silky richness.
Onion (1, diced): Provides a natural sweetness and aromatic base.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a subtle punch that enhances the overall flavor.
Potatoes (3 cups, peeled and diced): Bring substance and help thicken the chowder beautifully.
Corn kernels (3 cups, fresh or frozen): The star ingredient, offering sweet bursts of flavor.
Chicken broth (4 cups): Creates the flavorful liquid foundation of the chowder.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds decadent creaminess to the broth without overpowering.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that round out the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it becomes beautifully crisp. This step not only gives you bacon to sprinkle over the soup later but also leaves behind flavorful drippings that will serve as the base for your chowder’s rich taste. Don’t rush this process—the crispy bits add a wonderful texture every spoonful deserves.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the bacon is removed, add the butter to the pot with the bacon drippings. Toss in the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This soft bed of onion lets the sweetness come forward. Add minced garlic last, cooking just about 30 seconds until fragrant to prevent bitterness, layering in complexity without overpowering the soup’s delicate balance.

Step 3: Introduce Potatoes, Corn, and Broth

Now it’s time to add your diced potatoes, fresh or frozen corn kernels, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture up to a gentle boil. This is where your chowder begins to take shape, with the potatoes gradually softening to create that creamy texture we all love. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the flavors meld into a cozy symphony.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Bacon

When your potatoes are perfectly cooked, stir in the heavy cream and the crispy bacon pieces. This turns the chowder silky smooth and luxurious. Remember, once the cream is added, keep the heat low and avoid boiling to maintain that velvety texture and prevent curdling. Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste, and get ready to serve up a bowl of pure satisfaction.

How to Serve Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe

Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Be sure to jazz up your bowl of Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe with garnishes that add a fresh, vibrant finishing touch. Chopped green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley brings a pop of color and a subtle herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and sweet corn. A dollop of sour cream can also add a tangy creaminess that rounds out each bite.

Side Dishes

This chowder is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread can turn it into a complete meal experience. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, while a side of roasted vegetables offers a lighter, colorful contrast to the chowder’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve the chowder in individual bread bowls for a rustic touch that’s as functional as it is charming. You can also top the soup with extra crispy bacon and a swirl of cream for a restaurant-style presentation at home. For family dinners, ladle it into rustic bowls and let everyone add their favorite garnishes to customize their bowls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain that creamy texture without breaking the soup.

Freezing

This chowder freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. It will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking or scorching. Avoid boiling once the cream has been added to keep that silky texture intact. If the chowder seems too thick, a splash of chicken broth or cream can bring it back to the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for this Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works wonderfully and is a convenient choice year-round. It maintains sweetness well and adds the necessary texture without compromising flavor.

Is it possible to make this chowder vegetarian?

You can easily omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian-friendly version. For a smoky note, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

How do I make the chowder thicker?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the soup after the potatoes are cooked. This will create a creamier consistency without the need for extra flour or thickeners.

Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

Using half-and-half or whole milk is possible, but keep in mind it will create a less rich, thinner chowder. To maintain creaminess without heavy cream, consider adding a small amount of cornstarch slurry to thicken.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without losing flavor?

Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, and avoid boiling to keep the cream from separating. If the soup is too thick upon reheating, add a little extra broth or water to restore the ideal texture.

Final Thoughts

Nothing quite compares to a steaming bowl of Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe when you want comfort food that feels both indulgent and homey. This recipe is easy to make yet delivers layers of flavor that will make you want to keep this chowder in your regular rotation. So grab those simple ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and dive into the creamy, smoky goodness that only this soup can bring to your table.

Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe