Easy One Pot Cheesy Corn Chowder
Ingredients:
One small onion
Two large carrots
Two celery stocks
8 strips Bacon
Ham steaks
2-3 large potatoes or a handful of mini potatoes
1 bag frozen corn
One full container chicken stock (32 oz)
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 flour
1-2 tablespoons garlic
1/4 tsp each salt, pepper and Italian seasoning
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional but highly recommended)
Cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1.) In a large pot fry up diced bacon. Once browned add in diced ham and cook for about 3-4 minutes on medium heat.
2.) Remove ham and bacon and set aside, leaving bacon fat in pan. Add in onion, carrots and celery and cook until fragrant and onions are translucent. Add in garlic and cook another 1-2 minutes.
3.) Add in flour and stir well for 1 minute. Then add in chicken broth. Give a quick stir, add in cream, potatoes, corn, and ham and bacon mixture.
4.) Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered with lid slightly ajar for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender!
5.) Add in about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted!
Enjoy!! 😋
One Pot Cheesy Corn Chowder is an ideal dish for those craving comfort food with minimal fuss. The key to this recipe lies in layering flavors—starting with crispy bacon and savory ham to create a rich base. Using the bacon fat to sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic adds depth and aroma to the chowder. Incorporating flour helps thicken the broth, ensuring a velvety texture once the chicken stock and cream are added. Potatoes play a crucial role by adding body and heartiness to the chowder while the frozen corn brings natural sweetness and color. The seasoning blend, including Italian herbs and a pinch of cayenne pepper, enhances the flavor without overwhelming the dish. For those who prefer a milder taste, cayenne can be omitted or adjusted. For best results, simmer gently to allow the potatoes to become tender and the flavors to meld. Adding shredded cheddar cheese at the end not only enriches the chowder but also gives it that irresistible creamy consistency everyone loves. This chowder can be served with crusty bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. It's also versatile—feel free to substitute ham with smoked sausage or adjust vegetables based on what you have on hand. Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully, making it a practical choice for weekend meal prep. Overall, this easy one-pot cheesy corn chowder is perfect for busy cooks seeking a tasty, satisfying meal that combines classic comfort ingredients with simple preparation.
