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The BEST Corn Chowder Recipe

The BEST Corn Chowder Recipe

4.7 from 8 reviews

A rich and creamy corn chowder made with turkey bacon, fresh corn, and tender potatoes, simmered in chicken broth and finished with milk and cream. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy meal and garnished with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Fat

  • 6 slices turkey bacon (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Liquids and Others

  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

  1. Cook Turkey Bacon: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until browned and slightly crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the fat in the pot. Add olive oil if needed.
  2. Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the corn, potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the seasoning.
  5. Simmer Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  6. Add Dairy: Stir in the milk and cream, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  7. Thicken Chowder: If you prefer a thicker chowder, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 more minutes until slightly thickened.
  8. Add Bacon Back: Add half of the cooked turkey bacon back into the pot and stir.
  9. Season to Taste: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  10. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with remaining turkey bacon and chopped fresh parsley or chives.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Frozen corn works well if fresh corn is not available.
  • The cornstarch slurry is optional and can be omitted for a thinner chowder.
  • To make the soup dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy alternatives.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn chowder, turkey bacon soup, creamy corn soup, comfort food, chowder recipe