Name: Comforting One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh corn (or 4 cups frozen corn); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or neutral oil); 1 tablespoon butter (for vegan, use more oil or coconut oil); 1 medium onion (chopped; shallots can be substituted); 1 stalk celery (diced; leeks are a great alternative); 2 cloves garlic (minced; fresh or powdered can be used); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste; sea salt can be substituted); 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper (can use white pepper); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or use dried thyme in lesser amounts); 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper (omit for a milder chowder); 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 2 cups yellow potatoes (diced; russet potatoes can be used); 1 cup milk (coconut milk for dairy-free version); 0.5 cup chives (chopped; can substitute with green onions or parsley)

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As I peeled away the layers of my day, the comforting aroma of simmering vegetables wafted through my kitchen, instantly uplifting my spirits. This Easy One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder is the perfect remedy for a hectic weeknight, combining fresh corn’s natural sweetness and potatoes’ creamy goodness into a cozy bowl of bliss. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this vegetarian and gluten-free delight, a nourishing meal that’s ideal for any season—fresh corn in summer or frozen when cravings strike in winter. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a simple, hassle-free recipe that makes cleaning up a breeze. Ready to tantalize your taste buds with this bowl of warmth? Let’s dive into the recipe and transform your evening!

Why is This Corn Chowder Irresistible?

Comforting, this chowder wraps you in a warm hug with its creamy texture and rich flavors, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Quick to prepare, it takes just 30 minutes, making it a go-to choice for busy evenings. Versatile, you can enjoy it year-round with fresh or frozen corn. Nutritious and guilt-free, each serving is around 182 calories, so you can indulge without worry. Looking for sides? Pair this chowder with some crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete your cozy meal experience!

One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder Ingredients

For the Chowder

Fresh Corn – Provides natural sweetness and vibrant flavor; substitute with 4 cups frozen corn if out of season.
Olive Oil – Adds healthy fats for cooking; can substitute with additional butter or any neutral oil.
Butter – Contributes richness to the chowder; for vegan, use more oil or coconut oil.
Onion – Aromatic base that adds depth to the flavor; shallots could be substituted for a milder taste.
Celery – Offers a crunchy texture and additional flavor; leeks could be a great alternative.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor profile with its pungent, savory notes; fresh or powdered can be used.
Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste; sea salt can be a substitute.
Ground Black Pepper – Adds necessary heat; white pepper can be used as a substitute.
Fresh Thyme – Provides an earthy flavor to the chowder; dried thyme can be used but in lesser amounts.
Ground Cayenne Pepper – Adds a dash of heat; omit for a milder chowder.
Low-Sodium Vegetable or Chicken Broth – Forms the soup base; water can be used in a pinch but won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
Yellow Potatoes – Adds heartiness and creaminess to the chowder; russet potatoes can be used instead.
Milk – Contributes to creaminess; coconut milk works for a dairy-free version.
Chives – Adds a pop of color and mild onion-like flavor as a garnish; green onions or parsley serve as good alternatives.

This One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder is not just a recipe, but a heartwarming experience that invites everyone to the table. Dive in and enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Start by shucking the fresh corn, ensuring to remove all the silk. Cut the kernels off the cobs and set them aside. Don’t forget to keep the cobs; you’ll be using them later for flavor enhancement in your One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add 1 chopped onion and 1 diced celery stalk. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they soften and become fragrant, creating a delicious base for your chowder.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. Cook this mix for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic essence, which will blend beautifully into the chowder.

Step 4: Create the Broth Base
Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth and add the reserved corn cobs to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, cooking for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering process allows the broth to absorb all the lovely flavors from the cobs, enriching the overall taste of the One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes
After simmering, carefully remove the corn cobs and discard them. Now it’s time to add 2 cups of diced yellow potatoes to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes until the potatoes are partially cooked, softening just enough to add creaminess to our chowder.

Step 6: Incorporate Corn and Milk
Next, add the reserved corn kernels and 1 cup of milk to the pot. Stir well to combine, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the chowder to simmer for about 5 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the mixture has thickened, creating the comforting texture characteristic of a delicious One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder.

Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve
Taste your chowder and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper as desired. Finally, stir in a handful of chopped chives for a fresh burst of flavor. Ladle the chowder into bowls and serve warm, enjoying this delightful dish that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

How to Store and Freeze One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder

Fridge: Store your chowder in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing for the best preservation.

Reheating: Gently reheat the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat to maintain the creamy texture.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze chowder due to the potato texture; freezing can lead to a grainy consistency upon thawing. Instead, savor it fresh from the fridge.

Ingredient Swap Storage: If you opted for frozen corn, remember it’s perfectly versatile; use it straight from the freezer without thawing in your One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder!

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder preparations are fantastic for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the corn up to 24 hours in advance. Simply shuck and cut the corn off the cobs, and dice the onion, celery, and potatoes, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. You can also make the broth base (steps 1-4) ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days to save even more time. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, just heat the broth, add the diced potatoes and the reserved corn kernels, then finish cooking as directed in steps 6 and 7. This way, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready in no time, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder Variations

Feel free to get creative and tweak this chowder to suit your family’s taste buds!

Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute yellow potatoes with sweet potatoes for a subtle sweetness and a vibrant color boost. The natural sugars in sweet potatoes bring an entirely new dimension to the dish.
Add Protein: Toss in cooked bacon pieces or rotisserie chicken for a non-vegetarian twist. This adds heartiness and brings savory richness, making your chowder even more satisfying.
Herb Infusion: Mix in additional herbs like basil or fresh parsley for a fragrant aroma. Fresh herbs not only elevate flavor but also bring a pop of color to your bowl.
Creamy Vegan Variation: Replace dairy milk with a cup of coconut or almond milk for a luscious, dairy-free chowder. The coconut milk adds a delightful creaminess while still keeping it vegan-friendly.
Spice it Up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or chipotle powder. This will transform your chowder into a spicy delight that warms the palate with each bite.
Texture Twist: For added crunch, toss in some cooked corn fritters on top before serving. This delightful contrast in textures creates an exciting and elevated chowder experience.
Zesty Lemon Touch: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully. It adds a zing that complements the creamy base, making each spoonful refreshing.
Savor with Sides: Enjoy your chowder with a side of fresh salad or a crusty bread like Potato Wedges Inside. This will complete your meal and really elevate your chowder experience.

Let your culinary imagination run wild—these variations will keep your meals interesting and delicious every time!

What to Serve with Easy One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder

A delightful chowder calls for equally inviting sides that elevate your meal experience!

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, warm, freshly baked bread complements the creamy texture of the chowder beautifully.
Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness that balances the chowder’s richness.
Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs offers a comforting side, soaking up the chowder’s flavors in every bite.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Crispy, buttery grilled cheese provides a satisfying crunch, making for a nostalgic pairing with the creamy chowder.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies bring earthy flavors and a delightful contrast to the smooth chowder texture.
Cornbread Muffins: A side of sweet cornbread enhances the chowder experience, offering a slightly sweet note that complements its savory richness.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of chilled sparkling wine elevates the meal, adding a touch of elegance to your cozy night in.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, indulge in warm cookies that provide a sweet ending, perfect for dipping into a glass of milk!

Expert Tips for One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder

Choose Fresh Corn: Fresh corn enhances sweetness and flavor. If fresh isn’t available, opt for frozen to maintain taste.
Thicker Chowder: For a creamier texture, puree a portion of the soup and stir it back in. This adds richness without any extra ingredients.
Avoid Freezing: Chowder doesn’t freeze well due to its potato content; keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days for the best texture.
Season Gradually: Taste as you go when seasoning the chowder. It’s easy to over-salt! Adjust with kosher salt for the best results.
Herb Alternatives: Fresh thyme adds depth, but feel free to use dried thyme if fresh isn’t on hand—just reduce the amount!
Serve with Care: Pair your One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a wholesome, fulfilling meal.

One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best corn for this chowder?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is always the best choice for the sweetest, most vibrant flavor. Look for cobs that are plump, with bright green husks and moist silk. Avoid any with dark spots or dried-out tips. If fresh isn’t available, 4 cups of frozen corn will also work beautifully!

How should I store leftover chowder?
Very good question! Store your One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps preserve its creamy texture and rich flavors for your next warm bowl!

Can I freeze this chowder?
It’s best not to freeze this chowder because the potatoes can become grainy upon thawing. For the ultimate texture, enjoy it fresh or in the fridge. If you have too much, consider storing only the broth and add fresh potatoes later when you’re ready to eat it again.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick or thin?
If your chowder turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can puree a small portion of the soup and mix it back in for added creaminess.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! This One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets. For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or more olive oil. If you have nut allergies, be mindful when selecting milk alternatives—coconut milk is great but ensure it’s nut-free.

How can I enhance the flavors of my chowder?
I often add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors! You can also incorporate a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a bit of warmth and depth. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste—it’s your chowder after all!