Creamy Corn Chowder

Name: Creamy Corn Chowder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ears of fresh corn, kernels removed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I love making Creamy Corn Chowder because it transports me back to cozy family dinners where the aroma filled the kitchen. The combination of sweet corn, creamy texture, and a hint of spice creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul. Each bite is a reminder of simpler times, and I enjoy seeing everyone’s faces light up when they taste it. This chowder comes together quickly, making it an ideal weeknight meal that feels decadent yet effortless. Let's dive into this delightful recipe that's sure to please any crowd!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:24:35.637Z

When I first attempted making Creamy Corn Chowder, I was surprised at how simple it was to create something that felt so luxurious. I used fresh corn from the farmer's market, which really elevated the dish with its natural sweetness. The trick I discovered was to sauté the vegetables before adding the broth, allowing the flavors to deepen and mesh beautifully.

This chowder is not just about the corn; the addition of potatoes gives it that perfect comfort food consistency. I found that using a splash of smoked paprika at the end adds a touch of depth that surprises and delights. It's now a staple in my recipe repertoire!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly evenings
Fresh ingredients bring out a wonderful sweetness
Easy to customize with your favorite spices or veggies

Perfecting the Texture

The texture of your Creamy Corn Chowder is critical to achieving that comforting, hearty feel. To ensure a velvety mouthfeel, avoid overcooking the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but retain their shape. When adding the heavy cream, consider using room temperature cream to prevent it from curdling when added to the hot broth. Stir gently after incorporating the cream, and let it cook only until heated through—this keeps the chowder luscious and avoids a grainy texture.

For those who prefer a smoother consistency, blending a portion of the chowder can create a beautiful balance between creamy and chunky. I recommend using an immersion blender for a quick and easy method; simply blend a third of the chowder directly in the pot before adding the remaining corn and cream. Alternatively, transferring a portion to a blender can work, but ensure it’s cool enough to prevent any splattering.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this chowder plays a vital role in creating rich flavor and depth. Fresh corn is the star—its sweetness enhances the chowder's overall taste. When choosing corn, look for ears that are plump and with bright green husks; this usually indicates freshness. In lieu of fresh corn, frozen or canned corn can be used, though I suggest sautéing them lightly before adding to intensify their flavor.

The smoked paprika adds a unique, subtle smokiness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the corn. If you’re seeking a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. For those who need a lighter version, substituting half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for heavy cream can still yield a rich, flavorful chowder without the heaviness.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your chowder delicious:

Ingredients

4 ears of fresh corn, kernels removed
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients will combine to create a luscious and comforting chowder.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy bliss:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Potatoes and Broth

Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Incorporate Corn and Cream

Stir in the corn and heavy cream, then season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Now you have a delicious bowl of chowder ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a slight kick. This chowder also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Corn Chowder is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it up to two days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. If the chowder thickens too much, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up.

If you want to prepare this chowder for later, it can also be frozen. Freeze in portioned containers for easy meals. Keep in mind that the cream may separate a bit when frozen, so when reheating, whisk it in as it warms up to bring everything back together.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your chowder, consider serving it with crusty bread or homemade cornbread, which complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly. A sprinkle of crumbled bacon or sautéed chives can add a delightful crunch and enhance the dish's flavor profile. For a touch of acidity, a squeeze of lime or lemon just before serving can brighten the chowder beautifully.

This chowder is versatile and pairs well with various toppings. Crème fraîche or sour cream can add a nice tang, while shredded cheese offers richness. Feel free to get creative with other garnishes—think diced avocado, jalapeño slices, or even a handful of microgreens for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe and is a great time-saver!

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ How can I make this chowder thicker?

For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the chowder and stir it back into the pot, or add a cornstarch slurry.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.