Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon and Thyme
This chowder is a cozy hug in a bowl, with creamy corn, smoky bacon, and a whisper of thyme.
Total: 45 minPrep: 15 minCook: 30 min6 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (125+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 2 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Steps
- 1 Cook bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
- 2 Remove bacon, leaving drippings, then sauté onion and celery until softened.
- 3 Add potatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- 4 Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
- 5 Cook until potatoes are tender, then stir in corn and thyme.
- 6 Stir in heavy cream and butter until melted and chowder is creamy.
- 7 Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 8 Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and green onions.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
Variations
- Add cooked shrimp or diced ham for extra protein.
- Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
Substitutions
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Pairings
- Pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
Calories:
320 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
20g carbohydrates
Protein:
10g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
6g sugar
Sodium:
700mg sodium
Tips
- Use frozen corn if fresh isn't available.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm crusty bread or oyster crackers for a comforting meal.
FAQ
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.