Creamy Corn Chowder – Perfect for Lunch or Dinner

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Creamy Corn Chowder! Sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a rich creamy base make this soup a perfect family-friendly meal. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s ideal for cozy nights or casual lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet & Savory: Sweet corn combined with creamy broth creates a rich flavor.
  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and ready in under 40 minutes.
  • Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
  • Versatile: Enjoy as a main dish or side soup.
  • Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly days or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Flat lay of corn, potatoes, cream, and vegetables for corn chowder

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: chives or shredded cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step-by-step collage showing preparation of creamy corn chowder

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  2. Add Vegetables: Stir in corn and diced potatoes. Cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Add Broth & Simmer: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  4. Add Cream: Stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Optional Blending: For a thicker, creamier chowder, partially blend with an immersion blender. Leave some corn and potato chunks for texture.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like crispy bacon, chives, or shredded cheese.

Tips & Variations

  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives like coconut or oat cream.
  • Extra Flavor: Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick.
  • Chunky vs Smooth: Blend partially for some texture or fully for a creamy chowder.
  • Add Protein: Stir in cooked diced chicken or turkey for a heartier meal.
  • Storage Tip: Soup thickens as it cools; reheat with a splash of broth to restore consistency.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
  • Reheating Tip: Reheat slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
  • Do Not Overheat: Avoid high heat to prevent curdling of cream.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Bowl of creamy corn chowder with parsley, bacon, and crusty bread

  • Serve as a starter or main dish with fresh bread.
  • Pair with crusty rolls, grilled cheese, or salads.
  • Garnish with chives, or shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor.
  • Perfect for cozy lunches, dinner, or potluck gatherings.
  • Add a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the soup a day in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I use frozen corn?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works just as well as fresh and may even save prep time.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute butter with plant-based oil and heavy cream with coconut, oat, or soy cream.

Can I thicken the chowder without cream?

Yes! Use additional potatoes or a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup naturally.

Ready to Make It?

This Creamy Corn Chowder is a rich, comforting, and versatile soup that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Pin it to your board and enjoy a bowl of hearty, flavorful goodness with every spoonful.

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Bowl of creamy corn chowder with corn, potatoes, parsley

Creamy Corn Chowder


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  • Author: Myla
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Corn Chowder with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a rich, velvety base. Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

3 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

1 teaspoon thyme

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional toppings: crispy bacon bits, chives, shredded cheese


Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent.

2. Stir in corn and diced potatoes. Cook 3–5 minutes to combine flavors.

3. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and thyme. Bring to a boil, then simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

4. Stir in heavy cream and simmer another 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.

5. Optionally blend partially for a creamier texture while leaving some corn and potato chunks.

6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with optional toppings before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to restore creamy texture.

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Sauté & Simmer
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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