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Bring a little warmth to your table with this rich and comforting potato chowder. It’s loaded with tender potatoes, sweet bursts of corn, and the smoky crunch of bacon. Whether you’re looking for a filling weekday dinner or a hearty weekend treat, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Begin by placing a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it turns crisp and golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon bits to a paper towel–lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon drippings in the pot.
Add the butter, followed by the diced onion and sliced celery, and sauté them in the bacon drippings. Stir occasionally until they become fragrant and lightly caramelized. Now, drop in the garlic and let it cook for just a minute, taking care not to let it brown.
Toss in the cubed potatoes and stir everything together. Pour in the broth, sprinkle the thyme on top, and season with a little salt and pepper. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce it to low. Cover the pot and let the chowder cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Stir in the milk or half-and-half, along with the corn kernels. Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. For added richness, smash a few of the potato chunks against the side of the pot. Finally, crumble the crispy bacon over the chowder just before serving.
This creamy potato chowder is a fantastic pick for both busy weeknights and laid-back weekend meals. The salty crunch of bacon balances beautifully with the sweetness of corn, making for a dish that both kids and adults will love. Want a lighter version? Swap the bacon for turkey bacon or omit it altogether. Craving more veggies? Toss in peas and carrots, or stir in some spinach at the end. No matter how you customize it, this comforting soup delivers cozy satisfaction in every spoonful.
