Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 slices beef , chopped (optional, for smoky flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled & diced
- 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter option)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (adds a warm, smoky depth)
- ½ tsp thyme
- 1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra creaminess)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
- Chopped green onions & fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Sour cream or extra butter (for a richer finish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the beef (Optional)
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped beefover medium heat until crispy.
- Remove beef and set aside, leaving about 1 tbsp beef grease in the pot.
(If skipping beef , start with butter instead!)
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add butter to the pot.
- Stir in onions, garlic, bell pepper, and celery, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir to create a light roux—this helps thicken the chowder.
Step 3: Simmer the Chowder
- Add potatoes, corn, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes (until potatoes are fork-tender).
Step 4: Blend for a Creamy Texture
- For extra creamy chowder, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup while leaving some chunks.
- If you prefer a chunky chowder, skip this step!
Step 5: Finish with Cream & Cheese
- Stir in heavy cream (or half & half).
- Add shredded cheese (if using) and stir until melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding extra salt, pepper, or spice if needed.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the chowder into bowls.
- Top with crispy beef , green onions, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with crusty bread or biscuits for the ultimate cozy meal!
Notes
Variations & Customizations
🌱 Vegetarian Version – Skip the beef and use butter. Swap chicken broth for veggie broth.
🔥 Spicy Corn Chowder – Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Stir in more cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda for a creamy, cheesy twist.
🥓 Smoky beef Flavor – Use smoked paprika & beef drippings for deeper flavor.