Chili Corn Chowder
A hearty, flavorful chili corn chowder combining ground beef, corn, tomatoes, and chili spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot and drain any excess fat.
- Saute the diced onions and green pepper in the margarine until tender.
- Add all ingredients to the pot: cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, frozen corn, chopped tomatoes, chili beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Heat the mixture to boiling, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or cumin in addition to the chili powder. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also use fresh corn instead of frozen for a sweeter taste. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning, as the canned ingredients can vary in saltiness. This recipe can also be adapted to incorporate ingredients from the Ohio Grange Cookbook Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili corn chowder hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, consider serving it alongside Beef And Peppers In Crock-Pot. This chowder also makes a great base for nachos or tacos, offering a delicious twist on classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely with a lid to avoid splatters. If the chowder thickens too much upon cooling, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Corn Chowder contains roughly 1015 calories, with 28g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2410mg per serving (105% 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 in advance?
Yes, this chili corn chowder can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting overnight in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stovetop when you're ready to serve. Just keep in mind that the chowder may thicken, so you might need to add a little water or broth when reheating.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian or vegan version, try using black beans or kidney beans combined with chopped mushrooms or quinoa for texture. This allows you to enjoy the dish without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
How spicy is this chili corn chowder?
The spice level depends on the amount of chili powder you use, but it's generally mild to medium. If you prefer it spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Conversely, if you want it milder, reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely, and adjust according to your taste.
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).