The creamy richness of this chowder comes from a clever use of evaporated milk instead of heavy cream, giving it that luscious texture without being overly indulgent. With each bite, you get the savoriness of crisp bacon, the sweetness of corn, and the buttery bite of Yukon Gold potatoes—a comforting harmony in a single bowl.
Perfect for cozy nights or casual get-togethers, this Bacon Potato Corn Chowder is a satisfying, one-pot wonder that tastes like it simmered for hours. But here’s the secret: it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want to serve something hearty and homemade.
Full Recipe:
-
1/2 pound bacon strips, chopped
-
1/4 cup chopped onion
-
1-1/2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (about 5 medium), peeled and cubed
-
1 can (14-3/4 ounces) cream-style corn
-
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Directions:
-
In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Discard all but 1-1/2 teaspoons of bacon drippings.
-
Add chopped onion to reserved drippings in the skillet. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until tender and fragrant.
-
Meanwhile, place cubed potatoes in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until tender.
-
Drain potatoes, reserving 1 cup of the potato water.
-
Return the potatoes to the saucepan along with the reserved potato water, cream-style corn, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper. Stir gently and heat through over medium heat.
-
Stir in cooked bacon and sautéed onions just before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 335 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Comforting Charm of Bacon Potato Corn Chowder
Bacon Potato Corn Chowder is one of those deeply satisfying dishes that speaks to the heart of home cooking. It’s warm, rich, flavorful, and incredibly nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal, a cozy soup for cold nights, or a hearty lunch that leaves you feeling full and content, this chowder checks all the boxes.
Originating from traditional chowder recipes, this version adds a modern twist by using pantry-friendly evaporated milk to deliver a creamy consistency without the need for flour or heavy cream. It’s the kind of recipe that balances comfort with simplicity—perfect for both weeknight cooking and weekend indulgence.
Why This Chowder Stands Out
There are countless chowder recipes out there, but this one truly shines because of its minimal yet impactful ingredient list. The real beauty of this dish lies in its thoughtful use of five primary ingredients: bacon, onion, potatoes, corn, and evaporated milk. Each component brings its own flavor and texture, working together in harmony to produce a dish that feels both rustic and refined.
The smokiness of the bacon infuses the chowder with deep, savory notes, while the sweet corn adds natural sugars and a creamy mouthfeel. Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery richness and hold their shape well during cooking, creating both texture and substance. The use of evaporated milk instead of heavy cream is a clever swap—it gives the soup its luxurious body without being overly rich or heavy.
A Soup That Feels Like a Hug
There’s something undeniably comforting about this chowder. It has all the components of a great comfort dish: creamy consistency, a medley of warm flavors, and hearty ingredients that leave you full and satisfied. It’s the type of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl—a remedy for cold days, stressful times, or whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
For families, this chowder is especially appealing. Kids love the sweet flavor of corn, and bacon is a universal favorite. It’s also a wonderful way to get picky eaters to enjoy their veggies—hidden under the creamy goodness of the soup. It works beautifully as a standalone meal or as part of a multi-course dinner.
Perfect for All Seasons
While traditionally considered a fall or winter dish, Bacon Potato Corn Chowder is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. During the colder months, it provides warmth and comfort. In the summer, it can be a delightful dinner when paired with a light salad or fresh bread, especially if made with sweet summer corn.
Its ingredients are available year-round, which makes it an easy go-to meal regardless of the season. You can even use frozen or fresh corn when in season for a slightly different texture and a burst of fresh flavor.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One of the highlights of this dish is its use of simple, accessible ingredients. Most households will have many of the items on hand, and even novice cooks will find the steps easy to follow. Despite its simplicity, the flavor depth is exceptional. Cooking the onion in bacon drippings gives a richness and complexity that belies the minimal effort.
The reserved potato water is another secret weapon—it adds body to the soup and ensures that none of the starchy goodness from the potatoes goes to waste. This detail showcases how thoughtful techniques can elevate everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
Customizations and Variations
This chowder is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on dietary needs or taste preferences. For instance:
-
Vegetarian version: Omit the bacon and use a touch of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. Replace evaporated milk with a plant-based version for a vegan-friendly soup.
-
Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar or Velveeta for a luscious, cheesy version.
-
Seafood chowder: Add cooked shrimp, crab, or clams for a more indulgent, coastal variation.
-
Spice it up: Crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce can bring a pleasant heat.
The base recipe is so forgiving that you can tailor it to your pantry or the tastes of your guests, while still maintaining its heartwarming essence.
A Smart Pantry Recipe
One of the biggest appeals of this dish for busy home cooks is its pantry-friendly nature. With canned corn and evaporated milk as the creamy backbone of the soup, there’s no need for fresh dairy or thickening agents. This makes it a great recipe for those “what’s in the pantry” nights or emergency meal planning.
Even better, it’s made in a single pot—less cleanup, less hassle, and more time to relax and enjoy.
Pairing Suggestions
Bacon Potato Corn Chowder pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:
-
Crusty Bread or Biscuits: Something to soak up the last spoonfuls of the chowder is a must.
-
Light Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a perfect balance to the rich soup.
-
Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for extra nutrients, serve the chowder alongside roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.
-
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a comfort food double feature, pair your chowder with a golden grilled cheese sandwich.
These pairings turn a simple soup into a well-rounded meal that can impress guests or satisfy a hungry family.
How to Store and Reheat
This chowder stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. As with many soups, the flavors tend to deepen and develop even more overnight, making it a delicious option for leftovers.
Reheating should be done gently over low heat on the stove to maintain the soup’s creamy texture. Stir often and avoid boiling to prevent any curdling from the milk. While this chowder isn’t ideal for freezing due to its dairy content, it’s so tasty and easy to make that it likely won’t last long enough to need freezing anyway!
What Makes This Chowder Blog-Worthy?
In the ever-growing sea of soup recipes online, Bacon Potato Corn Chowder offers something special: it’s practical, cozy, fast, and full of flavor. It appeals to experienced cooks and beginners alike, making it an excellent choice for your readers.
What makes it blog-worthy is not just the taste—it’s the story it tells. It’s about returning to the basics, embracing comfort, and finding joy in simplicity. Whether it’s shared at the dinner table on a quiet weeknight or ladled into bowls for a big family gathering, it brings people together with warmth and heart.
Conclusion
Bacon Potato Corn Chowder is more than just a soup—it’s a timeless dish that captures the essence of comfort food. It’s creamy without being heavy, flavorful without being fussy, and satisfying without being over-the-top. The balance of smoky bacon, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes, all wrapped in a velvety broth, is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable meals.
For anyone looking to add a new staple to their recipe collection, this chowder is a must-try. It’s a cozy classic that fits beautifully into any kitchen and leaves everyone asking for seconds.