Old-fashioned corn chowder is a timeless comfort food that combines the sweet flavor of corn, creamy texture, and savory ingredients like bacon and potatoes. This rich, hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. The recipe is simple, yet it delivers an incredibly satisfying and flavorful chowder. Let’s dive into how to make this classic soup.
1. Old Fashioned Corn Chowder Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup diced bacon
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cups cream-style corn
- 2 cups water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups half-and-half
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Leave a small amount of the rendered bacon fat in the pot to sauté the vegetables. The bacon adds a savory, smoky depth to the chowder that really elevates the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Potatoes
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. The sweetness of the onion will complement the other ingredients perfectly.
Next, add the chopped potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. This step helps the potatoes absorb the flavor from the bacon and onions, creating a delicious base for the soup.
Step 3: Add the Corn, Water, and Seasonings
Pour in the cream-style corn and water, then stir to combine. Add the salt and ground black pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. The potatoes will release some starch, which helps thicken the chowder slightly.
Step 4: Add the Half-and-Half
Once the potatoes are tender, pour in the half-and-half and stir to combine. The half-and-half makes the soup incredibly creamy and adds richness. Let the chowder simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly. You can adjust the thickness by adding a bit more water or half-and-half, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Once the chowder has reached your desired consistency, stir in the cooked bacon that you set aside earlier. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve the chowder hot, and garnish with extra crispy bacon or fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Enjoy the hearty, comforting goodness of this old-fashioned corn chowder!
2. Tips for Perfect Corn Chowder
Use Fresh Potatoes: Fresh, firm potatoes work best for this recipe. Russet potatoes are ideal because they release a bit of starch, helping to thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture. Be sure not to overcook them so they maintain their shape and add a nice bite to the chowder.
Crisp the Bacon Well: The bacon adds an essential smoky flavor to the chowder. Make sure it gets nice and crispy to create a satisfying crunch with each spoonful. You can also reserve some bacon to sprinkle on top when serving for an extra touch.
Adjust the Creaminess: The half-and-half is what makes this chowder rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half of the half-and-half with milk. On the other hand, if you prefer a richer soup, you can add a little heavy cream instead.
Customize the Corn: While cream-style corn gives the soup a smooth, velvety texture, you can add a bit of whole kernel corn to give the chowder some texture. Just drain the corn and add it with the cream-style corn.
Simmer Gently: To avoid curdling the half-and-half, simmer the soup over medium heat and stir it regularly. High heat can cause the cream to separate, which would change the consistency of the chowder.
3. What to Eat With Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is hearty and filling on its own, but it pairs well with several side dishes that can complement its rich, creamy flavor. Here are some great ideas:
Crusty Bread: A thick slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the chowder. Try a rustic sourdough or a soft dinner roll to soak up the creamy soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The crispy, gooey perfection of a grilled cheese sandwich goes hand in hand with the creamy corn chowder. The melted cheese provides a nice contrast to the soup’s richness.
Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the heaviness of the chowder. Consider a simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing for freshness.
Baked Potatoes: For a filling meal, serve the chowder with baked potatoes. The potatoes can be topped with butter, sour cream, and chives for extra indulgence.
Roasted Vegetables: Pairing the chowder with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes adds a nice contrast of flavors and textures.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Leftover corn chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
When reheating, it’s best to do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a little extra water, milk, or half-and-half to restore its creamy consistency.
For longer storage, you can freeze corn chowder for up to 2-3 months. Cool the chowder completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat. As with refrigeration, you may need to adjust the consistency by adding liquid.
Old-fashioned corn chowder is the kind of dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. The combination of creamy corn, tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a touch of seasoning creates a timeless soup that never goes out of style.
It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day or enjoy as a delicious, filling meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
