Creamy Corn Chowder with Bacon Recipe

When the air turns crisp and comfort food calls, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade corn chowder.

I’ve been making this version for years, and it never fails to bring warmth to the table. The sweet corn contrasts beautifully with smoky bacon, creamy potatoes, and rich broth—it’s cozy, hearty, and satisfying in every spoonful.

Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, this chowder captures the essence of comfort in a bowl.

This creamy corn chowder is a delicious and hearty dish, perfect for any season. Featuring thick-cut bacon, diced onion, and fresh thyme, it brings comforting flavors together with sweet corn kernels and creamy richness.

Jump to Recipe

Recipe Highlights

Corn chowder is a timeless fall and winter favorite—rich, creamy, and brimming with flavor. The smoky aroma of bacon infuses the broth while tender potatoes and sweet corn create a perfect texture.

It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple salad.

Highlights:

• Creamy, cozy soup packed with flavor
  .
• Sweet corn and smoky bacon for balance
  .
• Comforting and hearty meal for chilly nights
  .
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
  .
• Great for make-ahead meals and leftovers

Comforting Ingredients for Chowder

This creamy corn chowder is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

At its core, the chowder features thick-cut bacon, which adds a savory depth to the dish. The diced onion and celery stalks provide a subtle sweetness and crunch, while the minced garlic cloves infuse the chowder with aromatic richness.

To create a thick and satisfying base, all-purpose flour is used, which helps to thicken the mixture as it cooks.

The addition of chicken broth brings a hearty flavor, while the peeled and cubed potatoes contribute to the chowder’s comforting texture.

Fresh thyme and a bay leaf enhance the overall taste, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills the kitchen.

Finally, the sweet corn kernels and heavy cream round out the dish, delivering a creamy finish that is simply irresistible.

Ingredient Notes

• Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory depth that elevates the creamy base. Thick-cut bacon works best for texture and flavor.
  .
• Sweet Corn: The heart of the chowder—fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work, but fresh corn gives the brightest flavor.
  .
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold or russet potatoes make the chowder thick and hearty.
  .
• Onion & Celery: Classic aromatics that build the base flavor.
  .
• Garlic: Adds warmth and depth.
  .
• Flour: Helps thicken the chowder to a creamy consistency.
  .
• Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid base that complements the sweet and savory elements.
  .
• Heavy Cream: Creates richness and a luxurious texture.
  .
• Butter: Adds silky smoothness and enhances flavor.
  .
• Thyme & Bay Leaf: Herbs that bring an earthy aroma and depth to the soup.
  .
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all flavors together.

How to Make My Corn Chowder

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a bit of fat in the pot.
   .
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add butter, onion, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant.
   .
3. Build the Base: Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
   .
4. Add Broth and Potatoes: Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly. Add potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15–20 minutes).
   .
5. Add Corn and Cream: Stir in corn kernels and simmer for 5 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and let the chowder gently thicken.
   .
6. Finish and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in half of the cooked bacon, saving the rest for garnish. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Process

The preparation of this chowder is straightforward and rewarding.

Begin by cooking the chopped thick-cut bacon in a large pot until it becomes crispy. This step not only renders the bacon fat, which will be used to sauté the vegetables, but also sets the stage for the rich flavor profile of the chowder.

Once the bacon is removed, the diced onion and celery stalks are added to the pot. Sautéing these vegetables until softened allows their natural sweetness to emerge, creating a flavorful foundation for the chowder.

After incorporating the minced garlic cloves, a sprinkle of all-purpose flour is added to thicken the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the desired creamy consistency.

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, and then add the peeled and cubed potatoes along with a bay leaf.

Bringing It All Together

As the chowder simmers, the potatoes become tender, releasing their starches into the broth, which thickens the soup even further.

After about 15-20 minutes, it’s time to introduce the corn kernels and heavy cream. These ingredients not only enhance the chowder’s flavor but also add a delightful creaminess that makes each spoonful comforting.

Fresh thyme is stirred in at this stage, allowing its herbal notes to infuse the chowder. A final seasoning of salt and pepper ensures that the flavors are balanced and harmonious.

Serving Suggestions

Once the chowder is ready, it’s time to serve this warm and inviting dish.

Remove the bay leaf before ladling the chowder into bowls. The finishing touch is to top each bowl with the crispy bacon that was set aside earlier, adding a satisfying crunch.

For a pop of color and freshness, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a hint of brightness to the rich chowder.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy corn chowder pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Consider serving it with crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the delicious broth. A simple green salad can also complement the chowder, providing a refreshing contrast to its richness.

For a heartier meal, grilled cheese sandwiches or a charcuterie board can elevate the dining experience, making it a cozy gathering for family or friends.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing the chowder is easy.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The chowder can be refrigerated for up to three days.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it has thickened too much.

This will help restore its creamy consistency.

Tips for the Best Corn Chowder

For the richest flavor, don’t rush the base—let the bacon, butter, and aromatics slowly develop that savory foundation.

If you like your chowder thicker, mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cream.

Using fresh corn in season makes a noticeable difference, but frozen corn is a convenient year-round substitute.

Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning; the right amount of salt makes the flavors shine.