The BEST Corn Chowder

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There are few things as comforting as a warm, creamy bowl of corn chowder. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening, need a filling lunch option, or want to impress your family with a cozy homemade dish, this corn chowder recipe has got you covered. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it was passed down through generations, yet it’s easy enough to make on a weeknight. With its sweet corn, hearty potatoes, and smoky turkey bacon, this chowder brings bold flavor and satisfying texture in every spoonful.

Corn chowder is a classic American soup with roots in New England cuisine. It traditionally combines corn, potatoes, and onions with a creamy broth. While many variations use pork or ham for added flavor, we’re keeping it pork-free by using smoked turkey bacon for that deep, savory kick. This little swap makes the chowder just as delicious, while also being suitable for those who avoid pork for dietary or personal reasons.

What sets this corn chowder apart is the layering of textures and flavors. You get the pop of fresh (or frozen) sweet corn, the creaminess of the broth, the soft, buttery chunks of potato, and the slight crisp from the turkey bacon. A hint of garlic and thyme adds depth without overpowering the natural sweetness of the corn. Every bite feels familiar, like a hug in a bowl.

Another reason this recipe is a keeper? It’s adaptable. If you’re vegetarian, you can omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth. Want to add a protein? Shredded chicken or even some cooked shrimp would be excellent additions. You can even toss in some bell peppers or chopped spinach for extra veggies. But even in its simplest form, this chowder hits the spot.

Kids love it. Adults love it. It reheats beautifully. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, it might taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It’s one of those rare dishes that feels indulgent without requiring a ton of effort.

This corn chowder is also a great way to celebrate the peak of corn season in late summer, but don’t worry—frozen corn works just as well, making it a year-round staple. The soup is rich without being heavy, thanks to a combination of milk and broth, and the final splash of cream brings everything together for a silky finish.

The entire cooking process is streamlined, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe approachable. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients and doesn’t require any fancy equipment beyond a good soup pot. The most time-consuming part is chopping the veggies, and even that can be done in advance.

You can serve this chowder as a standalone meal with crusty bread, or pair it with a simple salad for a complete dinner. It’s also perfect for casual entertaining—just ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs or a little shredded cheese, and you’ve got a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

We especially love this recipe during the cooler months, but it’s equally delightful on a rainy spring day or cool summer night. It’s the ultimate comfort food without being too rich or overwhelming.

What’s truly special is how this recipe brings people together. It’s perfect for sharing at family dinners, potlucks, or just when you want to treat yourself to something warm and nourishing. It’s easy to scale up for a crowd or portion out for meal prep during a busy week.

Even the pickiest eaters tend to enjoy this chowder because of its familiar ingredients and comforting flavor profile. It’s creamy without being too thick, and the touch of smokiness from the turkey bacon makes it feel just a little bit fancy.

If you’ve never made chowder from scratch before, don’t worry. This is a great place to start. It’s a foolproof recipe that delivers every time, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. After one taste, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along.

From the first sauté of the onions and garlic to the final sprinkle of herbs on top, this recipe is as satisfying to cook as it is to eat. And once you’ve made it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.

Servings: 6 servings

Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

• 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 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
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. 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. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the corn, potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables in the seasoning.
5. 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. Stir in the milk and cream, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
7. If you prefer a thicker chowder, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 2-3 more minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Add half of the cooked turkey bacon back into the pot and stir.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with remaining turkey bacon and chopped fresh parsley or chives.

Tips:

• Use Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture, but russet potatoes also work.
• Frozen corn is a convenient option and still gives a great taste.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
• This chowder can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This chowder is the perfect balance of hearty and creamy, with sweet corn and savory turkey bacon in every bite. It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and easy to adapt to your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy dinner or batch cooking for the week, it’s the kind of recipe that brings warmth, comfort, and flavor every time.

Summary: This is truly the BEST Corn Chowder Recipe—rich, creamy, and packed with corn, potatoes, and smoky turkey bacon. It’s quick to make, versatile, and perfect for any season. You’ll love how satisfying and delicious it is with minimal effort.