Summer Corn Chowder Recipe

If you’re craving something creamy, colorful, and absolutely bursting with summer sweetness, this Summer Corn Chowder is the dish you need in your life. Each spoonful delivers the kind of cozy comfort that you only find in the heart of corn season, with a velvety broth, tender potatoes, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Whether you’re using up garden-fresh corn or grabbing a few ears from the market, this chowder is designed to celebrate every golden kernel. It’s a bowl you’ll come back to again and again, all summer long.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Summer Corn Chowder so special is the way these simple, bright ingredients come together to build layers of flavor. Every component adds something unique, from sweetness to creaminess to just the right kiss of spice.

• Fresh Corn: Four ears, with kernels cut off (and cobs reserved), make this chowder irresistibly sweet and bursting with flavor.
• Olive Oil: A tablespoon for sautéing veggies, giving the base a savory start.
• Yellow Onion: Adds gentle sweetness and body to the chowder.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced, create an aromatic background note.
• Celery: One stalk, diced, brings fresh herbal taste and texture.
• Yukon Gold Potato: Creamy and tender when cooked, this potato thickens the chowder naturally.
• Smoked Paprika: Just a quarter teaspoon for subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with corn.
• Cayenne Pepper (Optional): A pinch for those who like a gentle heat.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste; don’t skimp since good seasoning unlocks all the flavors!
• Vegetable Broth: Three cups as the soup’s base, plus corn cob stock for even more flavor.
• Whole Milk or Half-and-Half: One cup makes this chowder creamy and lush (or swap for plant-based milk for a vegan version).
• Butter: Two tablespoons for richness and a silky finish.
• Chopped Fresh Chives or Green Onions: A sprinkle on top for bright color and a pop of fresh flavor.

How to Make Summer Corn Chowder

Step 1: Build Your Corn Stock

Begin by making the most of your fresh corn. After removing the kernels, toss the bare cobs into a big pot with three cups of water. Simmer them gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This simple trick extracts sweet, concentrated corn flavor you just can’t get from store-bought broths. Remove and discard the cobs, reserving that dreamy, golden liquid.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and celery. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until everything is softened and smells fantastic. This aromatic trio creates the savory backbone that makes Summer Corn Chowder sing.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Spices

Stir in your diced Yukon gold potato, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if you’re using it). Season everything generously with salt and black pepper. These veggies and spices soak up all those savory, smoky notes that transform the final soup.

Step 4: Simmer with Corn Stock

Pour in your homemade corn stock and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the potatoes are perfectly tender.

Step 5: Add Corn Kernels, Milk, and Butter

Now it’s time to add the star of the show — the fresh corn kernels. Let them simmer for five minutes so they’re sweet and juicy. Stir in the milk (or half-and-half) and butter in the final minutes, allowing everything to gently meld together and become gloriously creamy.

Step 6: Blend for Extra Creaminess

If you love your Summer Corn Chowder extra smooth and creamy, take an immersion blender and blend about a third of the chowder right in the pot. If you like more texture, you can blend less. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve Hot

Ladle the warm chowder into bowls, top liberally with chopped chives or green onions, and enjoy the taste of summer at its very best!

How to Serve Summer Corn Chowder

Garnishes

There’s nothing like a flurry of vibrant green chives or green onions to finish each bowl of Summer Corn Chowder. For extra richness, add a pat of butter, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, or even a crumble of bacon. These small touches turn every bowl into something special.

Side Dishes

This chowder absolutely loves a good hunk of crusty bread or a light side salad. Try serving it with garlic bread, a slice of cornbread, or even buttery crackers for dunking. For a summery meal, pair with a tomato salad or grilled veggies on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful by serving your Summer Corn Chowder in mini mugs or espresso cups as a party starter. For a picnic-friendly version, pack it up in thermoses and add the garnishes just before eating. You can even ladle it over rice, roasted chicken, or grilled shrimp for a hearty twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Summer Corn Chowder keeps beautifully! Store cooled chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen with time, making each reheated bowl even more flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to stash a taste of summer for later, this chowder freezes very well. Ladle cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chowder in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring often. A splash of milk can help restore the creaminess. Avoid boiling for too long after adding dairy, so the texture stays just right.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh corn gives the most vibrant flavor and natural sweetness, frozen corn works well too. Just skip the corn cob step and use vegetable broth instead.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply swap out the butter and dairy milk for your favorite plant-based alternatives. Oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk all work, and vegan butter will keep things rich and creamy.

Can I add protein to Summer Corn Chowder?

Definitely! Stir in cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or even shrimp towards the end of cooking. A can of drained white beans also adds extra heartiness.

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

No problem! Just ladle a portion of chowder into a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot and stir well. Or, skip blending for a more rustic, chunky texture.

Is Summer Corn Chowder gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check your broth and any add-ins to be sure they contain no gluten ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you love celebrating the flavors of the season, you owe it to yourself to make this Summer Corn Chowder. It’s a simple, soul-satisfying recipe that captures summer in every delicious spoonful. Grab that fresh corn while you can, gather your favorite people, and let this chowder fill your kitchen with warmth and joy. Enjoy!

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