Old Fashioned Corn Chowder
A hearty, comforting corn chowder with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and sweet corn, perfect for cozy meals and satisfying cravings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon from the pan and set aside.
- Fry diced onion in bacon fat until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Cook potatoes and corn in water until potatoes are tender.
- Add the onion and gravy mixture to the potato and corn mixture.
- Add cooked bacon and seasonings (salt and pepper).
- Stir well and bring to a boil, then serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or pancetta instead of regular bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with olive oil or a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth. If the chowder is too thick, adjust with additional milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn chowder with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Bacon Quiche Biscuit Cups for a delightful brunch option. Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs or additional crispy bacon for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of cheese on top can also enhance the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover corn chowder 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 to prevent sticking. If the chowder has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk or water while reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Corn Chowder contains roughly 806 calories, with 20g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 620mg per serving (27% 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 use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this chowder. It saves time and is just as flavorful. Simply add it to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to heat through without becoming mushy.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use a plant-based butter for sautéing. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like broth or seasonings, are also dairy-free for the best results.
Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions until they are tender. Adjust the cooking time if necessary to ensure all vegetables are cooked through.
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).