Potato Bacon Chowder
Creamy and hearty, Potato Bacon Chowder combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and rich cream for a comforting bowl. Its smoky, savory flavors make it perfect for a cozy family meal or casual gathering, served with crackers for added crunch and satisfaction.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp, then crumble and set aside.
- Saute chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Combine all ingredients in a large pan, except sour cream.
- Add crumbled bacon to the mixture and cook until heated through.
- Do not drain the potatoes after cooking.
- Stir in sour cream and heat the chowder for 5 to 10 minutes, but do not boil.
- Serve hot with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crispy pancetta instead of bacon, or try adding a dash of smoked paprika for depth. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead of water. Make sure to cut the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. Adding a splash of white wine can elevate the overall taste as well.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can cause uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Bacon Chowder contains roughly 695 calories, with 25g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), iron (144% of the Daily Value), and potassium (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1511mg 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 use frozen potatoes in this chowder?
Yes, frozen cubed potatoes can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Be sure to check for tenderness before adding the sour cream to ensure they are cooked through.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
To make this chowder gluten-free, use a gluten-free condensed cream of chicken soup and ensure the bacon is also gluten-free. You can also thicken the chowder with cornstarch mixed with water instead of traditional flour-based thickeners.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the chowder?
You can add diced celery and carrots when sautéing the onions for added flavor and texture. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the taste. A splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add a nice kick without overwhelming the dish.
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).