Name: Comforting One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups fresh corn (or 4 cups frozen corn); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or additional butter); 1 tablespoon butter (for a vegan option, use more oil); 1 cup onion (chopped; shallots can be used); 1 cup celery (diced; leeks can be an alternative); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or white pepper); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 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 can also be used); 1 cup milk (coconut milk for dairy-free); 1 cup chives (chopped, for garnish)

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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!

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 Variations

Feel free to make this chowder your own with these delicious twists and swaps!

Sweet Potatoes: Substitute yellow potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to your chowder.
Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon or rotisserie chicken for a hearty non-vegetarian twist. Each bite will be a delightful fusion of flavors!
Herb Garden: Elevate your chowder by incorporating fresh basil or parsley. These herbs add a refreshing note that brightens every bowl.
Creamy Dream: For a richer consistency, try using heavy cream instead of milk. It transforms the chowder into an ultra-creamy, luxurious dish.
Dairy-Free Delight: If you’re keeping it plant-based, substitute milk with coconut milk. It gives a tropical flair while remaining perfectly creamy.
Corn Variation: Experiment with different types of corn, like roasted corn or spicy corn from the can, for unexpected flavor explosions.
Seasonal Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or curry powder for an exciting twist! These spices introduce warmth and depth that can make this chowder truly memorable.
Texture Additions: Incorporate diced bell peppers for added crunch and flavor. Their sweet and crisp nature complements the soothing texture of the chowder.

As you explore these variations, consider pairing your chowder with some side dishes like Corn Salad Savory or enjoy it alongside crispy Potato Wedges Inside for a complete meal experience. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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!

Make Ahead Options

For busy home cooks, this One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder is a fantastic meal-prep option! You can chop the onions, celery, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cut the potatoes ahead of time, but to prevent browning, soak them in water until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to enjoy the chowder, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add broth and corn cobs, then continue with the recipe. This method not only saves you precious time on a hectic weeknight but ensures that your chowder is just as delicious as if made fresh!

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!

One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder Recipe FAQs

How should I select fresh corn for this chowder?
Absolutely, when selecting fresh corn, look for ears that have bright green husks and moist silk. The kernels should be plump and milky when pierced. Avoid corn with dark spots all over or dry husks, as this may indicate it’s past its prime.

What’s the best way to store leftover chowder?
You can store your One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure it cools down before sealing to maintain freshness. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy texture.

Can I freeze corn chowder for later?
It’s best not to freeze this chowder due to the potato texture; potatoes can become grainy upon freezing. If you need to save some for later, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. However, if you’re looking for a make-ahead option, consider preparing the chowder without the potatoes and adding fresh ones when you reheat.

What can I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder ends up too thick for your liking, no worries! Simply stir in a little more vegetable broth or milk, a splash at a time, while heating until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you restore the creamy goodness without losing flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This One-Pot Corn & Potato Chowder is vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan version, simply swap the dairy milk for coconut milk or almond milk, and use more olive oil instead of butter. Always check for allergies, especially if using pre-packaged vegetable broth, which may contain gluten or other allergens.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Absolutely, frozen corn works just as well in this recipe! If using frozen corn, simply add 4 cups directly into the pot during the cooking process. For the best flavor, let them thaw a bit before cooking if possible, or add a few additional spices to enhance the taste.