Easy Chowder Soup Recipe

When the weather turns chilly or you’re just in need of something comforting, there’s nothing like a warm bowl of chowder. It’s thick, creamy, and full of flavor-exactly what you need to cozy up with on a cold day. What’s great about chowder is its versatility; whether you prefer seafood, corn, or potato-based soups, the options are endless. But today, I’m going to walk you through a super easy chowder soup recipe that requires minimal effort and ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for those busy days when you just want to whip up something hearty and satisfying without too much fuss.

So, if you’re ready to dive into a soul-warming bowl of soup, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Easy Chowder Soup Recipe

This chowder recipe is all about simplicity and comfort. It takes only about 30 minutes to make, so you can easily fit it into your busy schedule. The beauty of this dish is that it’s forgiving-you can tweak it based on your personal tastes or what’s in your pantry, and it’ll still turn out delicious.

Ingredients Needed

To make this easy chowder soup, here’s a list of what you’ll need. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand; as I said, this recipe is very adaptable.

• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth: The base of the soup, giving it a savory depth. You can adjust to your preference for a thinner or thicker consistency.
• 2 cups of heavy cream: For that rich, creamy texture that makes chowder so comforting. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk.
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced: These are the heart of the soup, providing that perfect hearty texture. Yukon Golds or Russets work best.
• 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen): Corn adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, making the chowder even more satisfying.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: A flavor base to balance out the richness of the cream. Yellow or white onions are the go-to.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: For extra aromatic depth. Garlic takes this recipe to the next level with its savory punch.
• 2 tablespoons of butter: To sauté the onion and garlic, bringing out their sweetness and richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple, but essential for balancing the flavors.
• Optional toppings: Fresh parsley or chives, crumbled bacon, or grated cheese. These are the finishing touches that make each bite a little more indulgent.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

1. Sauté The Onions And Garlic

   • Start by heating up a large pot over medium heat and adding the butter. Once the butter melts, toss in the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until they’re soft and translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, just until fragrant.

2. Add The Broth And Potatoes

   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the diced potatoes. Stir it all together, ensuring the potatoes are submerged in the liquid.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

3. Add The Cream And Corn

   • Once the potatoes are done, stir in the heavy cream and corn kernels. If you’re using frozen corn, no need to thaw it first-just toss it right in.
   • Let the chowder simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Season And Adjust

   • Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a little more broth or milk at this stage.
   • If you like your chowder extra creamy, you can also use an immersion blender for a couple of pulses, but don’t go overboard. You want to keep some texture from the potatoes.

5. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes like fresh herbs, crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of grated cheese. Serve it with warm bread for dipping!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down some of the key ingredients that make this chowder a true standout.

• Potatoes: Potatoes are a classic chowder ingredient because they absorb the broth’s flavors and provide a satisfying, starchy base. They also contribute to the thick, creamy texture that defines chowder.
• Heavy Cream: While some chowder recipes call for a roux (flour and butter) to thicken the soup, heavy cream does the job beautifully. It’s the secret to that velvety smooth finish that makes each spoonful feel like a hug.
• Corn: Adding corn to chowder isn’t just for texture-it brings natural sweetness to balance out the richness of the cream. Plus, it gives the soup an extra burst of color.
• Broth: The choice between chicken or vegetable broth depends on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Chicken broth adds a savory, meaty base, while vegetable broth gives it a more neutral flavor, letting the other ingredients shine.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead of time: Chowder actually gets better as it sits! The flavors continue to develop, so you can make it a day or two ahead. Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to release more starch. Alternatively, use a potato ricer for an ultra-smooth texture.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or bay leaves can really elevate the flavor. Add them at the beginning with the broth and remove them before serving.
• Make it spicier: If you like a little heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. A dash of hot sauce can also do the trick!

Recipe Variations

Chowder is super versatile, so feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Here are a few variations to get you thinking:

• Seafood Chowder: Add shrimp, crab, or clams for a seafood twist. Simply sauté the seafood in a separate pan and stir it into the chowder at the end.
• Bacon Chowder: Crumbled crispy bacon adds both flavor and crunch. It’s an easy way to give this chowder a little extra depth.
• Vegan Chowder: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a bit of “cheese”, add nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Spicy Southwest Chowder: Add diced jalapeños, cumin, and a squeeze of lime for a southwestern flavor profile. You can even throw in some black beans for added texture.

Final Words

There’s something about chowder that makes it a crowd-pleaser. Maybe it’s the creamy texture, the warmth it offers, or the fact that you can customize it so easily. Whether you stick with the classic potato and corn version or add your own personal twist, this recipe is the perfect base for countless variations. It’s comforting, simple, and guaranteed to hit the spot every time.

So the next time you’re in need of something filling and delicious, give this easy chowder soup a try. You’ll be glad you did!