Creamy Potato Corn Chowder with Bacon is the ultimate comfort soup, bringing together rich flavors, hearty textures, and warming goodness in every spoonful. This classic-style chowder is thick, satisfying, and packed with tender potatoes, sweet corn, savory bacon, and a velvety broth that makes it perfect for cozy dinners, family meals, or cold-weather comfort food cravings.
This chowder is loved for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Potatoes provide natural creaminess, corn adds gentle sweetness, and bacon delivers a smoky, salty contrast that elevates the entire dish. The result is a well-balanced soup that feels indulgent yet familiar, making it a timeless favorite in many kitchens.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 150 g bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1½ cups milk or light cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional herbs: thyme or parsley
Preparation Method
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy and golden. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving a small amount of rendered fat in the pot for flavor. Add the butter if needed, then sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the garlic and cook briefly, allowing it to release its aroma without browning. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well, cooking for a minute to remove the raw flour taste. This step helps thicken the chowder and creates a smooth, creamy base.
Gradually pour in the broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The starch from the potatoes naturally thickens the soup, giving it a comforting, hearty texture.
Once the potatoes are soft, add the corn and milk or cream. Stir gently and allow the chowder to simmer for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting carefully due to the saltiness of the bacon.
Finally, return the crispy bacon to the pot, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired. Stir gently and remove from heat.
Texture and Flavor Profile
This chowder stands out because of its rich yet balanced texture. The potatoes create a thick, creamy base without overwhelming heaviness, while the corn adds bursts of sweetness that contrast beautifully with the smoky bacon. Carrots and celery provide subtle freshness, rounding out the flavor profile.
Each spoonful delivers warmth and satisfaction, making this chowder ideal for both lunch and dinner. The creamy broth coats the ingredients perfectly, ensuring consistent flavor in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Potato Corn Chowder with Bacon is best served hot, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper, chopped parsley, or extra bacon bits. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
This soup also works well as a starter for larger dinners or as a comforting main dish on its own. Its hearty nature makes it filling enough to stand alone while still being versatile for different menus.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the desired texture.
This soup is ideal for meal prep, as the flavors continue to develop over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
The success of this potato corn chowder lies in its classic combination of simple, well-loved ingredients. Bacon provides depth, potatoes create natural creaminess, and corn adds brightness. The gentle simmering process allows flavors to blend harmoniously without overpowering one another.
Creamy Potato Corn Chowder with Bacon is a comforting, reliable recipe that fits effortlessly into everyday cooking. Whether served on a chilly evening or prepared in advance for busy days, it delivers warmth, nourishment, and timeless flavor in every bowl.