Easy Hardy Corn Chowder
A hearty, creamy corn chowder with smoky bacon, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, blending sweet corn, tomato flavor, and rich milk for a satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crisp, remove from skillet and crumble.
- Add the bacon grease to the skillet and sauté the chopped onion until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato soup, canned milk, and cream-style corn.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- Pour into bowls and sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chowder, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute turkey bacon for the traditional bacon. For a creamier texture, use whole milk instead of canned milk. Fresh corn can also be used in place of canned, just ensure it’s cooked before adding.
Serving Suggestions
This corn chowder is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a complete meal, serve it alongside the Texas Pea Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the chowder's texture. You can also add a splash of milk while reheating to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Hardy Corn Chowder contains roughly 697 calories, with 15g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 633mg per serving (28% 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 make this chowder vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of the canned milk. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I thicken the chowder if it's too thin?
If your chowder is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stirring it into the simmering chowder. Alternatively, you can mash some of the corn or add instant potato flakes to achieve a thicker consistency.
What other ingredients can I add to this chowder?
You can customize your chowder by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños for a kick, or even cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein. Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or chili powder to enhance the flavor profile.
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).