Instant Pot Corn Chowder: A Quick and Creamy Comfort Food Recipe

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Introduction

Are you craving a comforting bowl of soup that’s both quick to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further! Instant Pot Corn Chowder is the perfect solution. This creamy and hearty dish is made with fresh corn, potatoes, and bacon, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for something cozy to enjoy with the family. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients and is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re new to using the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this Instant Pot Corn Chowder recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

What is this Recipe?

Instant Pot Corn Chowder is a rich, creamy soup made with sweet corn, potatoes, bacon, and a combination of broth and cream. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this recipe cooks in a fraction of the time it would take to make on the stove, all while keeping the flavor intact. The magic of the Instant Pot is in how it locks in the moisture and flavors, resulting in a chowder that’s both creamy and hearty. It’s the perfect meal for cold evenings, or whenever you need a satisfying, comforting dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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Essential Ingredients

To make this Instant Pot Corn Chowder, you will need:

• Fresh Corn – The star of the dish. Sweet, juicy corn gives the chowder a fresh, natural sweetness.
• Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this recipe. They add creaminess and texture.
• Bacon – Bacon brings a savory depth of flavor, with a satisfying crunch when added to the chowder.
• Onion – Adds aromatic depth and sweetness when cooked.
• Celery – For a slight crunch and subtle, earthy flavor.
• Garlic – A staple in most savory dishes, garlic infuses the soup with a fragrant warmth.
• Chicken Broth – A savory base for the chowder. For a vegetarian option, you can easily swap in vegetable broth.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creates that creamy texture that makes chowder so comforting.
• Butter – For sautéing the vegetables and creating a luscious base.
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves are used to enhance the flavors.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re looking to customize the recipe based on dietary preferences or what you have in your pantry, here are some alternatives:

• Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika to replicate the savory, smoky flavor. You can add some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy taste.
• Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your broth and cream to ensure they are gluten-free if needed.
• Spicy Version: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your chowder a spicy kick.

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Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield

| Prep Time | 10 minutes | | Cook Time | 20 minutes | | Total Time | 30 minutes | | Servings | 6 servings | | Yield | 6 bowls |

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Key Features

• Quick and Easy: Made in the Instant Pot, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Creamy and Rich: The heavy cream and potatoes give the chowder its signature creamy texture.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet corn, savory bacon, and fresh vegetables creates a well-balanced, comforting flavor.
• Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs, such as making it gluten-free or dairy-free.

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Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300 kcal
Protein	9g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	6g
Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	800mg
Potassium	600mg

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Directions (Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Corn Chowder)

Making Instant Pot Corn Chowder is incredibly simple, thanks to the convenience of the Instant Pot. This method locks in the flavors, making the process both quick and easy, while ensuring a creamy, rich, and hearty soup. Here’s a more detailed guide to help you get every step just right:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Bacon

The first step in making your Instant Pot Corn Chowder is to sauté the aromatics and bacon. This step forms the base of the soup’s flavor profile.

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode: Start by pressing the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. This will heat the inner pot, allowing you to sauté the ingredients.
2. Add the butter: Once the Instant Pot is hot, add 2 tablespoons of butter. The butter will melt quickly, creating a rich base for the soup.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften and become aromatic. This should take about 3-4 minutes. The onion should become translucent, and the garlic will release its fragrant aroma, infusing the butter and creating a savory base for your chowder.
4. Cook the bacon: After the vegetables have softened, add the chopped bacon to the pot. Bacon adds a smoky, savory depth to the soup, and it will render out its fat as it cooks. Let the bacon cook for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes crispy. The crispy bacon will give your chowder some texture and flavor.

Step 2: Add the Corn, Potatoes, and Broth

Once the vegetables and bacon are sautéed, it’s time to build the body of your chowder by adding the main ingredients: corn, potatoes, and broth.

1. Add the corn: Fresh corn kernels (or frozen if that’s what you have on hand) are added to the pot. Stir them in with the bacon and vegetables. Corn is the star ingredient of this chowder, bringing a natural sweetness to balance out the savory bacon and rich potatoes.
2. Add the potatoes: Dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes and add them to the pot. Potatoes are essential to a chowder because they help thicken the soup and contribute to its creamy texture. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this dish due to their creamy texture when cooked.
3. Pour in the chicken broth: Now that you have your vegetables, corn, and potatoes in the pot, pour in the chicken broth. This adds the liquid base for your chowder. You can substitute vegetable broth if you want to make the dish vegetarian.
4. Season the soup: Add thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. These seasonings will help balance out the natural sweetness of the corn and bring depth to the dish. Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste, but keep in mind that the bacon adds some saltiness, so start with a small amount of salt and taste as you go.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Soup

Now that all the ingredients are in the pot, it’s time to let the Instant Pot do its magic and cook the chowder under pressure.

1. Seal the Instant Pot: Close the Instant Pot lid securely. Ensure the pressure valve is set to “Sealing,” which will allow the Instant Pot to build pressure and cook the soup evenly.
2. Set to pressure cook: Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function on your Instant Pot, and set the cooking time to 8 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the timer starts counting down.
3. Pressure cooking: Once the Instant Pot reaches full pressure, it will cook the soup for 8 minutes. This step is essential for cooking the potatoes through while keeping the corn intact. The pressure ensures the soup will be rich and flavorful in a fraction of the time it would take to make it on the stovetop.

Step 4: Release Pressure and Stir in Cream

After the 8-minute cook time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. This allows the soup to continue cooking and thickening. Once 10 minutes have passed, gently switch the pressure valve to “Venting” to release any leftover pressure.

1. Open the Instant Pot: Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Be mindful of the steam when opening the pot.
2. Stir in the heavy cream: Now, it’s time to add the creamy element that gives this chowder its signature richness. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and mix thoroughly to blend everything together. This step will create that velvety texture we all love in a good chowder.
3. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You may want to add a pinch of salt, some extra pepper, or a dash of thyme to get the flavor just right. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let the chowder sit for a few more minutes with the Instant Pot on “Keep Warm” mode. The potatoes will continue to break down slightly and thicken the soup.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Your Instant Pot Corn Chowder is now ready to be served. Ladle the soup into bowls, and feel free to garnish with some crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.

1. Garnish: Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. You could also add a handful of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, for an extra layer of richness.
2. Serve: Pair your chowder with crusty bread or crackers for the perfect comfort meal. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser and will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Pro Tips for a Perfect Instant Pot Corn Chowder

1. Sautéing is Key: Don’t rush through the sautéing step. Sautéing the onions, celery, and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients is crucial for developing deep flavors. The caramelization process enhances the taste of the vegetables and creates a savory base that will make your chowder even more delicious. Take the time to let the bacon crisp up as well, as it imparts a smoky flavor that’s central to the chowder’s taste.
2. Choose the Right Potatoes: Potatoes are an essential ingredient in chowder because they help create the soup’s thick, creamy texture. For the best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes or Russet potatoes. These varieties break down slightly as they cook, giving the chowder a smooth, velvety consistency. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, cut the potatoes into larger pieces so they hold their shape better during cooking.
3. Add Cream at the End: To achieve the perfect creamy texture, always add the heavy cream at the end of the cooking process. Adding it before pressure cooking may cause it to curdle or break, resulting in an undesirable texture. Stir in the cream after the pressure cooking is complete, just before serving, for a smooth and velvety finish.
4. Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker chowder, let it sit in the Instant Pot for a few extra minutes on “Keep Warm” mode after opening the lid. This helps the potatoes break down further, gradually thickening the soup on its own. If your chowder is too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn provides a natural sweetness that makes the chowder stand out. If using frozen corn, be sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot. Fresh corn, when in season, is always the best choice for this recipe.
6. Finish with Fresh Herbs or Bacon: For a garnish that adds flavor and color, top your chowder with fresh parsley, chives, or crispy bacon bits. This final touch elevates the dish visually and adds a burst of flavor that balances out the creamy base.

By following these tips, your Instant Pot Corn Chowder will be restaurant-quality, with the perfect balance of flavors and textures every time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

You’ll love this Instant Pot Corn Chowder because it’s the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. The Instant Pot makes this recipe so easy to prepare, cutting down on cooking time while still delivering a rich and creamy chowder. Plus, it’s versatile – you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand in the kitchen.

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What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this Instant Pot Corn Chowder apart is the speed and ease with which you can make it. Using the Instant Pot, this soup is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy families. The layers of flavor created by the sautéing process and the balance of sweet corn and savory bacon ensure that every spoonful is satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable – you can swap ingredients based on what you prefer, whether that’s a dairy-free version or a spicy twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen corn for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of fresh corn. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the pot.
2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add smoked paprika to replicate the smoky flavor.
3. Can I freeze the corn chowder? Yes, this chowder freezes well. Allow it to cool fully before storing it in an airtight container, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! The chowder will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be reheated on the stove.

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You’ll Also Love:

• Instant Pot Creamy Potato Soup
• Slow Cooker Corn and Potato Chowder
• Vegetarian Butternut Squash Soup

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Conclusion

There you have it – a quick, easy, and delicious recipe for Instant Pot Corn Chowder that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich, creamy texture and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly day or whenever you want something satisfying. Try this recipe today and share your results with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your take on this hearty chowder!