Fresh Florida Corn Chowder
A creamy, sweet Florida corn chowder bursting with fresh corn flavor, melted Cheddar, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut kernels from the corn cobs and set aside.
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Saute chopped onion and celery for about 3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
- Stir in flour and cook and stir for 1 minute.
- Slowly stir in milk, salt, and pepper, and bring to the boiling point, stirring constantly until mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in the corn kernels and simmer, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese and heat until the cheese melts.
- Serve immediately in bowls and sprinkle with paprika.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the chowder just before serving. If fresh corn isn't available, frozen corn can be a great substitute. Make sure to use mild Cheddar cheese for a balanced flavor, and feel free to add diced bell peppers for extra color and taste. This chowder is a wonderful way to use up any extra corn from your summer cookouts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn chowder hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color. It pairs beautifully with Edna Earl Vanhoose Rolls or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider serving with a side of spicy tortilla chips. Enjoy this chowder as a comforting lunch or a cozy dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chowder slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to stir well to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Florida Corn Chowder contains roughly 1429 calories, with 30g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (95% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (87% of the Daily Value), and protein (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1521mg per serving (66% 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 vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe by using plant-based butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying without the dairy. Just ensure that the flour you use is also vegan-friendly.
How can I thicken the chowder further?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can blend a portion of the soup after adding the corn and cheese. Use an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender. Just be sure to leave some corn intact for texture. Alternatively, you can add an additional tablespoon of flour mixed with a bit of water.
Can I freeze this corn chowder?
Yes, this corn chowder can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk if the consistency is too thick.
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).