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Creamy Street Corn Chowder Recipe with Crispy Bacon Crunch

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A comforting and creamy chowder featuring sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a crispy bacon topping that adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half or coconut cream for lighter/dairy-free options)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot, discard the rest or save for another use.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the bacon fat. Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in diced potatoes and chopped jalapeño (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly soften.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the potatoes and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  5. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to combine. Add corn kernels. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently until potatoes are tender, about 15-18 minutes.
  6. Stir in heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Remove chowder from heat and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
  8. Ladle chowder into bowls and top with crispy bacon pieces just before serving.

Notes

Use thick-cut bacon for best crunch and flavor. Substitute gluten-free flour to make gluten-free. For dairy-free, use coconut or almond milk creamers and replace butter with olive oil or vegan spread. To keep bacon crispy, add it as a topping just before serving. If potatoes are not softening, partially cover the pot to trap steam. Optionally blend half the chowder for a creamier texture. Leftovers thicken when chilled; add broth or cream when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: street corn chowder, creamy chowder, bacon crunch, corn soup, comfort food, easy chowder recipe

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/creamy-street-corn-chowder-recipe-with-crispy-bacon-crunch-easy-and-delicious/