Creamy Corn Soup with Bacon (No Cream Added!) – Your Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Discover the magic of a truly creamy corn soup that achieves its rich, velvety texture without a drop of heavy cream! This cozy recipe, often lovingly called corn chowder, is perfect for warming up chilly bellies on cold, snowy days, yet equally delightful when fresh, sweet corn is abundant in late summer. It’s a versatile dish that promises comfort and flavor, becoming an instant family favorite.
Embracing the Cozy: A Perfect Bowl for Any Weather
Here in our home, this cream of corn soup has been a staple, especially as the seasons shift. Just recently, we experienced our first snowfall of the year, bringing with it a mix of excitement and a quick melt-and-rain combo that left us all a bit damp. Despite the slush, the kids made the most of it with some spirited sledding, while our puppy, Katie, thoroughly enjoyed her very first romp in the snow, soaking up every new sensation.
After such outdoor adventures, there’s nothing quite like coming inside to a warm, comforting bowl of homemade soup. This recipe fills that need perfectly, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that restores warmth and energy. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, creating a sense of coziness and well-being, whether you’re recovering from a frosty playtime or simply seeking a comforting weeknight dinner.
The Secret to Creaminess: A No-Cream Approach
This “no-cream” creamy corn soup recipe is one I turn to several times a year, a testament to its enduring appeal. What makes it truly special is how it achieves its luxurious, velvety texture without relying on heavy cream. Instead, we use a simple roux made with a touch of flour and milk, combined with the natural starchiness of potatoes and the inherent sweetness of corn. A portion of the soup is often blended to further enhance its smooth consistency, creating a rich mouthfeel that rivals any cream-based chowder, but with a lighter, healthier profile.
The beauty of this method lies not only in its lighter caloric impact but also in how it allows the true flavors of the corn and other fresh ingredients to shine through. You get an authentic corn taste, amplified by the savory notes of bacon, without being overshadowed by the richness of dairy. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for comfort food that’s both indulgent and mindful of dietary preferences or restrictions.
Choosing Your Corn: Freshness, Freezing, and Convenience
The choice of corn can significantly impact the final flavor of your soup. In late summer and early fall, when corn is at its peak, fresh corn cut straight off the cob delivers unparalleled sweetness and tenderness. This is undoubtedly the best option for the most vibrant flavor. I make sure to stock up during this season, often freezing enough fresh corn to enjoy this soup throughout the colder months.
When fresh corn isn’t available, high-quality frozen corn is a perfectly acceptable substitute. While it might not always match the sweetness and tender bite of just-picked corn, many brands offer excellent frozen varieties that work beautifully in this recipe. Look for organic or premium frozen corn for the best results. Canned corn is another alternative for convenience, though I generally recommend it as a last resort, as its flavor and texture can be less appealing. However, if you have a favorite canned corn that you enjoy, feel free to use it!
Efficient Preparation: Tips for a Speedy Meal
One of the many reasons this soup is a frequent visitor to our dinner table is its relatively quick preparation time. While the recipe might suggest a specific duration, my actual cooking time often runs a little longer because I typically double the batch to ensure plenty of leftovers. Even with a double recipe, it’s a fairly swift process to get this delicious meal on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
To maximize efficiency, I recommend a bit of multitasking. Begin by cooking the bacon; it will take a few minutes to crisp up, giving you just enough time to finely dice your onions and celery. Once the bacon is ready and removed, leaving behind that flavorful rendered fat, you can start sautéing the aromatics. While the onions and celery soften, you can move on to chopping the potatoes. By the time the milk and broth are added and coming to a boil, your potatoes will be prepped and ready to go in, ensuring a smooth flow of cooking steps. A personal time-saving tip: I often leave the skins on red potatoes, as they cook down nicely and add extra nutrients, but this is entirely up to your preference and the quality of your potatoes.
This methodical approach not only saves time but also ensures that each component is cooked to perfection, contributing to the overall depth of flavor and texture of the soup. And the best part? It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping. My kids often take it in their Thermos for school lunch, enjoying a warm, hearty meal even on the busiest school days.
Serving Suggestions & Delicious Variations
This creamy corn soup with bacon is fantastic on its own, but it also shines with a few simple additions. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider topping individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added tang, or a handful of homemade croutons for crunch. A bit of shredded cheddar cheese, melting into the warm soup, is also a highly recommended indulgence.
To round out the meal, serve it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or a light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to cut through the richness. If you’re looking to customize the recipe, there are many avenues to explore:
- **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick. Smoked paprika can also add a delightful smoky depth.
- **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the bacon and start by sautéing the vegetables in olive oil or butter. Add a touch of smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
- **Dairy-Free Version:** Use a plant-based milk (like unsweetened almond or oat milk) and ensure your flour is gluten-free if needed. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
- **Add More Veggies:** Diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach stirred in at the end can boost the nutritional value and add more texture.
- **Herbs:** Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added during the sautéing stage for an aromatic twist.
If you’re looking for other comforting soup ideas, I highly recommend checking out this Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup for another delicious cold-day option, or this delightful Sweet Corn Soup!
Cream of Corn Soup with Bacon
Ingredients
- 2 slices thick cut naturally smoked bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 3 sticks of celery diced
- 2 tablespoons flour (this flour works for gluten-free version)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups water or chicken stock
- 4 cups red potatoes diced
- 4 cups corn fresh cooked and cut off the cob or frozen or canned
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large pot cook the bacon until brown and crispy. Add the onions and saute 4-5 minutes before adding the celery and cook for a few more minutes.
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Stir in the the flour until all the flour is mixed into the leftover bacon fat. Cook for a minute or two while stirring.
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Add the milk and water or stock. Stir till all the flour is dissolved into the liquid. Add the potatoes and bring up to a boil.
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When the soup is thickened and has started to boil add the corn. Bring back up to temperature then turn down and simmer until the potatoes are tender. Add salt and pepper as desired and serve.
Notes
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
One of the best things about this creamy corn soup is how well it keeps, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Once cooled, transfer any remaining soup to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the potatoes might change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming a bit softer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. If the soup has thickened considerably in the fridge or freezer, you might want to add a splash of milk or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Avoid boiling vigorously, as this can sometimes cause the milk to separate. A quick reheat in the microwave is also an option for individual servings, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
A Hearty Meal for Every Occasion
Whether you’re battling a winter chill, celebrating the bounty of summer corn, or simply craving a comforting and satisfying meal, this “no-cream” creamy corn soup with bacon is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Its simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and wonderfully rich flavor make it a true culinary gem. It’s hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, yet versatile enough to pair with various sides or toppings.
So, gather your ingredients, take a moment to enjoy the process, and prepare to savor a bowl of this incredibly delicious and creamy corn soup. It’s a dish that embodies warmth, flavor, and the joy of homemade cooking. We hope you and your loved ones enjoy every spoonful!