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Creamy Sweet Corn Chowder Recipe with Crispy Bacon and Fresh Chives

creamy sweet corn chowder - featured image

A comforting and easy-to-make chowder combining creamy sweet corn, crispy bacon, and fresh chives for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels (about 4 ears if fresh)
  • 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet, then turn the heat to medium. Cook the bacon until crispy and golden, about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, chop roughly into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced potatoes and corn kernels, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in the 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then lower heat to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  5. Remove about half the soup and blend until smooth and creamy using a blender or immersion blender. Return blended portion to the pot and stir well.
  6. Stir in 1 cup of whole milk or half-and-half. Warm gently over low heat without boiling. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Ladle chowder into bowls and sprinkle with crispy bacon pieces and fresh chives. Serve immediately.

Notes

Cook bacon slowly starting in a cold pan for even rendering and crispiness. Partially blend the chowder to keep a chunky texture. Do not boil after adding milk to prevent curdling. Add salt gradually and adjust after blending. Store bacon separately to keep it crispy when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet corn chowder, creamy chowder, bacon chowder, comfort food, easy soup recipe, corn soup, crispy bacon, fresh chives