Bacon Potato Corn Chowder
A creamy, hearty chowder combining bacon, potatoes, corn, and a savory chicken soup base, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice bacon and fry until crispy.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine potatoes and water in a pot and cook for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Add condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream to the mixture and stir.
- Stir in the bacon and onion mixture.
- Gradually add milk while stirring.
- Add salt, pepper, parsley, and corn to the chowder.
- Reheat the soup slowly until hot and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. You can substitute half-and-half for the milk if you prefer a creamier chowder. To make it lighter, use low-fat sour cream and a reduced-sodium soup. If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This chowder can also be adapted with seasonal vegetables, similar to other comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad, making it a hearty meal. For a delightful side, consider serving it alongside a light dish like 7 Layer Pea Salad to balance the richness of the chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Potato Corn Chowder contains roughly 1236 calories, with 52g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (206% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chowder vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can enhance the flavor with smoked paprika for a smoky taste. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for extra texture and nutrition.
How can I thicken the chowder?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes before adding the cream of chicken soup. Another option is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in while the chowder is simmering. Remember to stir continuously until it thickens.
Can I freeze leftover chowder?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder, but it's best to do so before adding the milk and sour cream. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently, adding milk and sour cream just before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).