Are you searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and incredibly easy to make? Look no further than this delightful Instant Pot Corn Chowder! This recipe delivers a bowl of pure heaven – creamy, savory, and bursting with the sweet flavor of corn, complemented by tender potatoes and a hint of smoky bacon. It’s a dish that promises to warm you from the inside out, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch.
The beauty of using an Instant Pot for this chowder is its remarkable efficiency. You’ll achieve rich, deep flavors in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules. However, don’t worry if you don’t own a pressure cooker! We’ve also included simple instructions to prepare this equally delicious corn chowder on your stovetop, ensuring everyone can enjoy this fantastic recipe. Get ready to impress your taste buds – seriously, make this, you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Corn Chowder Recipe
This Instant Pot Corn Chowder isn’t just another soup; it’s an experience. Its appeal lies in its perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it a staple for any home cook. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary rotation:
- Effortless Preparation: The Instant Pot transforms what could be a lengthy process into a quick and easy endeavor. Sautéing and pressure cooking all in one pot means less cleanup and hands-on time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich, Deep Flavors: Pressure cooking helps to infuse the chicken broth with the savory goodness of bacon and aromatics, resulting in a chowder that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. The sweet corn, creamy texture, and tender potatoes create a harmonious blend that’s truly satisfying.
- Wholesome and Hearty: Packed with vegetables like corn, potatoes, onions, bell peppers, and celery, this chowder is a complete meal in itself. It’s nourishing, filling, and provides a good source of vitamins and energy, making it a healthy soup option.
- Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer it spicier, cheesier, or even vegetarian (with a few simple swaps), this recipe is incredibly adaptable. It’s a fantastic base for experimenting with your favorite additions and tailoring it to dietary needs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: From picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts, everyone loves a good corn chowder. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Its universal appeal makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Smart Swaps for Your Best Corn Chowder
The magic of a truly exceptional corn chowder lies in its ingredients. While the recipe below provides a fantastic starting point, understanding each component and potential substitutions can help you tailor it to your taste and what you have on hand.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add an unparalleled smoky depth and savory crunch to your creamy corn chowder. Feel free to use turkey bacon for a leaner option or omit for a vegetarian version (sauté vegetables in olive oil or butter instead).
- Aromatics (Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Celery, Garlic): This classic combination forms the flavor foundation. Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent kick. Don’t skimp on these for maximum flavor, as they contribute significantly to the chowder’s aromatic base.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for chowder. They have a naturally buttery flavor and hold their shape well, yet become wonderfully tender, providing that essential starchy creaminess. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they might break down more easily, contributing to a thicker chowder. Avoid waxy potatoes like red new potatoes, as they tend to stay firm.
- Chicken Broth: High-quality chicken broth or stock is crucial for a flavorful base. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works perfectly, ensuring the soup remains rich and savory.
- Corn Kernels: The star of the show! Fresh corn off the cob provides the best flavor and texture, especially in season, making it a truly fresh corn chowder. However, frozen corn (thawed) is an excellent and convenient substitute, offering great taste year-round. Canned corn, drained, can also be used in a pinch, though the flavor might be less vibrant.
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives the chowder its signature creamy richness. For a lighter version, you can try half-and-half or even milk, but be aware it won’t be as decadent. For a dairy-free alternative, full-fat coconut milk can provide a similar creaminess, adding a subtle tropical note.
- Fresh Thyme: A touch of fresh thyme brightens the soup with an earthy, slightly citrusy aroma. If you don’t have fresh, a smaller amount of dried thyme can be used (about 1/2 teaspoon). Other herbs like chives or parsley also make great garnishes.
Stovetop Instructions: Enjoying Corn Chowder Without an Instant Pot
While the Instant Pot offers speed and convenience for making pressure cooker corn chowder, you can absolutely achieve a fantastic Corn Chowder using traditional stovetop methods. The key is allowing enough time for the potatoes to cook through and for the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Crisp the Bacon: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Combine and Simmer: Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add Corn and Finish: Stir in the corn kernels and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the corn to heat through and its flavors to infuse.
- Cream and Thyme: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish generously with the reserved crispy bacon. This stovetop corn chowder is just as comforting and delicious!
Tips for the Best Creamy Corn Chowder
Achieving that perfect, rich, and creamy corn chowder involves a few tricks of the trade. Follow these tips to elevate your homemade chowder to restaurant quality:
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: The initial sautéing of bacon and vegetables is crucial. This step builds the foundational flavors of your chowder. Allow the vegetables to soften and sweeten properly before adding other ingredients, creating a robust flavor base.
- Deglaze for Flavor: After sautéing the bacon and vegetables in the Instant Pot, you might notice some browned bits at the bottom of the pot. Before adding the potatoes and broth, pour in a splash of broth or water and scrape up those bits with a wooden spoon. This “deglazing” technique adds immense flavor and helps prevent a “BURN” error in the Instant Pot.
- Thicken Naturally (Optional): If you prefer an even thicker chowder, you can mash a portion of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender to blend about 1/4 to 1/2 of the soup briefly. Alternatively, you can create a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and stir it into the simmering chowder after adding the corn, cooking for another minute until thickened.
- Adjust Consistency: If your chowder is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, a quick simmer on sauté mode (Instant Pot) or stovetop can help reduce it slightly, or use the cornstarch slurry method mentioned above.
- Season to Taste: Always taste your chowder before serving. You might need to add more salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Remember, flavors can intensify as the chowder sits, so a final adjustment is key.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish: While dried herbs are fine for cooking, fresh herbs like thyme, chives, or parsley as a garnish can truly elevate the presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor, making your Instant Pot Corn Chowder visually appealing and even more delicious.
Instant Pot Corn Chowder
A hearty and creamy corn chowder, easily made in your Instant Pot for a quick and satisfying meal. You won’t regret making this one!
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Soups
Prep Time:
10 minutes
10 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour
1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 3/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red sweet bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups corn kernels (thawed if frozen, or drained from a can)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
Instructions
- Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s deliciously crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
- To the hot pot with the reserved bacon fat, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables have softened and become aromatic.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its fragrance to develop. Be careful not to burn it.
- Add the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place. Rotate the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position.
- Press the “Cancel” button to end the Sauté function, then select the “Soup/Broth” button (this cycle will take about 30 minutes, including pressure build-up). Alternatively, set to Manual/Pressure Cook for 15 minutes on High Pressure if you prefer more control.
- When the cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release (NPR) for at least 10 minutes. This means letting the pressure dissipate on its own. After 10 minutes, carefully twist the steam release valve to “Venting” for a quick release of any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, you can open the lid.
- Press “Cancel” again, then select “Sauté” once more. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the corn kernels and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to heat through and meld with the chowder.
- Press “Cancel” to turn off the Sauté function. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme until well combined and heated through (do not boil after adding cream to prevent separation). Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve immediately, garnished generously with the reserved crispy bacon.
Serving Suggestions & Delicious Toppings
This creamy Instant Pot Corn Chowder is incredibly satisfying on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate it further, transforming it into an even more memorable meal.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of artisanal bread or a side of homemade cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of this delicious soup, adding an extra layer of comfort.
- Side Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vibrant vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chowder, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Garnishes Galore: Beyond the crispy bacon, consider adding various toppings for extra flavor and texture:
- Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped, for a burst of fresh herb flavor.
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy, cooling contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a cheesy indulgence.
- A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle or prominent heat.
- Homemade croutons for an extra layer of crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Instant Pot Corn Chowder is just as delicious, if not more so, the next day! Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this comfort food for days to come.
- Storage: Allow the chowder to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, keep the crispy bacon separate and add it fresh upon reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the chowder on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may find that the chowder has thickened in the fridge, so you might need to add a splash of milk, broth, or cream to achieve your desired consistency. Avoid boiling, especially after adding cream, to prevent separation. The Instant Pot’s “Sauté” function on low can also be used for reheating, stirring frequently.
- Freezing: Chowders with a high dairy content, like this one, can sometimes separate or become grainy when frozen and thawed due to the cream. If you plan to freeze it, consider holding off on adding the heavy cream until after thawing and reheating for the best texture. If you freeze it with the cream, stir it vigorously during reheating, and be prepared for a slightly altered, though still delicious, texture. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this Instant Pot Corn Chowder vegetarian?
- Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and sauté your vegetables in olive oil or butter instead. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The chowder will still be incredibly flavorful and comforting, making it a versatile option for everyone.
- What if I don’t have Yukon Gold potatoes?
- While Yukon Golds are recommended for their ideal texture and buttery flavor, you can use other starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Russets. Just be aware that Russets might break down more easily, giving a slightly thicker consistency. You might need to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are fork-tender.
- Can I use fresh corn on the cob?
- Yes, and it’s highly recommended when fresh corn is in season! Simply cut the kernels off the cob and use them as directed in the recipe. Fresh corn will impart an even sweeter, more vibrant flavor to your chowder, enhancing its seasonal appeal.
- How can I make this chowder spicier?
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end of cooking. You could also include a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the other vegetables for a deeper, spicier base.
- My chowder is too thin, how can I thicken it?
- You have a couple of excellent options to achieve a thicker consistency:
- Mash Potatoes: Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot. The starch released will naturally thicken the soup.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the simmering chowder and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it visibly thickens.
- Immersion Blender: Briefly use an immersion blender to blend a small portion of the chowder directly in the pot. Be careful not to over-blend, or you’ll end up with a very smooth soup instead of a chunky chowder.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Absolutely! This corn chowder recipe is very forgiving and adaptable. Diced carrots, green beans, peas, or even some spinach (stirred in at the very end until wilted) would be delicious and nutritious additions. Just be mindful of their cooking times – softer vegetables should be added towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts on Your Instant Pot Corn Chowder
This Instant Pot Corn Chowder recipe truly embodies the essence of comfort food – it’s warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or trying out your pressure cooker for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and delivers consistently delicious results. The rich, creamy texture combined with the sweet burst of corn and the savory crunch of bacon creates a flavor profile that everyone will adore, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special treat.
We encourage you to experiment with it, adding your favorite spices, vegetables, or even a different type of protein to make it truly your own. Don’t forget to gather your loved ones around the table to share this bowl of warmth and happiness. We’re confident that once you try this easy corn chowder, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home. Happy cooking!