Corn Chowder with Potatoes and Bacon is the ultimate bowl of comfort on a chilly day. Creamy, hearty, and brimming with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon, this dish is a true classic of American home cooking. Chowders have a rich history in New England cuisine, where they’ve long been celebrated as warming soups that bring together the best of land and sea. In this version, the earthy potatoes, sweet pops of corn, and savory depth of bacon create a balanced, soul-satisfying meal.

The beauty of this chowder lies in its rustic simplicity. It doesn’t require elaborate ingredients or complicated cooking techniques, yet the flavor is complex and deeply nourishing. Every spoonful is a mix of creamy broth, crispy bacon bits, and soft, buttery vegetables. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines comfort and flavor in perfect harmony. The natural sweetness of corn contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of bacon, while potatoes add heartiness that makes this chowder feel like a complete meal. Unlike thin soups, this chowder is creamy and thick, making it a filling dish for lunch or dinner.

Another reason I adore it is its versatility. You can enjoy it in summer with fresh sweet corn, or in winter with frozen kernels when you need something warm and cozy. Plus, the smell of bacon sizzling in the pot as you start cooking is enough to get everyone excited for dinner!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and downright delicious. It appeals to kids and adults alike, making it a great recipe for weeknight dinners or entertaining. The combination of creaminess and smokiness makes it irresistible. On top of that, it’s customizable—you can add cheese, herbs, or even seafood for a twist. If you’ve never tried a chowder before, this is the perfect introduction.

Recipe Overview:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories (approx): 340 calories per serving
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American (New England Inspired)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 6 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon gold or russet work well)
• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned – drained if canned)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for lighter flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Quick Directions

1. Cook bacon until crispy; set aside.
2. Sauté onion and garlic in bacon fat.
3. Add potatoes, corn, broth, and seasonings; simmer until potatoes are tender.
4. Whisk flour into cream, then stir into chowder to thicken.
5. Stir in bacon (reserve some for garnish) and garnish with parsley or chives.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crisp.
   • Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Leave about 2 tbsp of bacon fat in the pot (drain excess).
2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion to the bacon fat and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
   • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Potatoes and Corn:
   • Stir in the diced potatoes and corn kernels. Mix well with onions and garlic.
4. Simmer the Base:
   • Pour in chicken broth, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
5. Thicken the Chowder:
   • In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the cream until smooth (this prevents lumps).
   • Stir this mixture into the pot and cook for another 5–7 minutes, until chowder thickens slightly.
6. Add Bacon & Finish:
   • Stir in most of the bacon (reserve some for topping).
   • Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or chives, and sprinkle crispy bacon on top.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls with crusty bread, garlic bread, or biscuits on the side.
• Pair with a light green salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with shredded cheese for an extra indulgence.

Tips for this Recipe:

• Use starchy potatoes (like Yukon golds or russets) for a creamier texture.
• Fresh corn is best in summer, but frozen works wonderfully in other seasons.
• Don’t boil the cream—simmer gently to prevent curdling.
• For an extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a dash of smoked paprika.

Variations:

• Cheesy Corn Chowder: Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.
• Seafood Chowder: Add shrimp or clams along with the potatoes.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika for depth.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Note: cream-based soups may separate slightly when thawed, so reheat gently and stir well.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if too thick.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Whisk

FAQ:

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Q2: Can I use canned creamed corn instead of kernels?
Yes, it will make the chowder sweeter and creamier. You can use half creamed corn, half kernels.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.

Q4: What’s the best bacon for this recipe?
Thick-cut, smoky bacon works best, but any bacon will do.

Conclusion

Corn Chowder with Potatoes and Bacon is a timeless comfort food that deserves a spot in every home cook’s recipe collection. It’s creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, yet easy to prepare with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re craving something warm in winter or looking to enjoy sweet corn in the summer, this chowder delivers every time. The smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and bursts of corn make it a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or sharing with friends. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.