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+ servings
Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder

Delicious Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder for Warm Days

Enjoy this Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder packed with fresh ingredients and creamy goodness, perfect for warm days.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Chowder Base
  • 4 slices Bacon Adds smokiness and depth; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides sweetness; can be replaced with shallots if desired.
  • 2 stalks Celery Brings freshness and crunch; no direct substitute recommended.
  • 2 cups Corn The star ingredient; fresh corn is best, but canned or frozen work in a pinch.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Infuses the chowder with aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for optimum taste.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Serves as the rich soup base; opt for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 medium Russet Potatoes Contributes heartiness and creaminess; other waxy potatoes can be substituted.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Sea Salt Enhances flavor; regular salt can be used—just adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds mild heat; use less for a milder flavor if preferred.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika Brings smokiness and warmth; can be omitted if desired.
For the Herbs and Spices
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Provides a hint of freshness; fresh herbs can replace this in double the amount.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Adds a lovely herbal note; fresh is always an option.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Offers a kick; adjust the amount based on your spice preference or omit.
For the Fresh Veggies
  • 2 cups Zucchini Adds freshness and texture; any type of summer squash works as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Yellow Squash Complements zucchini beautifully; feel free to use any available summer squash.
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Half and Half Adds rich, creamy texture; substitute with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Cook the Bacon
  1. In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and add the diced bacon. Cook for about 5 minutes until the bacon becomes crisp and renders its fat, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  2. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.
Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Add the diced yellow onion and celery to the pot and sauté for approximately 3 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
  2. Next, stir in the fresh corn and cook for another 4 minutes until the corn is vibrant and slightly tender.
Add Garlic and Spices
  1. Introduce minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  2. Add in the paprika, dried parsley, thyme, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and ground black pepper, mixing well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Build the Chowder Base
  1. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and increase the heat to medium-high, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  2. Once simmering, add the diced russet potatoes and stir to combine. Reduce heat to medium and let it cook for 10 minutes.
Incorporate Zucchini and Squash
  1. Add the chopped zucchini and yellow squash to the pot, stirring gently. Continue cooking for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the potato pieces are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Puree for Creaminess
  1. Carefully ladle about 2 cups of the chowder mixture into a blender. Blend until smooth, then return the pureed chowder back to the pot, stirring gently to combine.
Stir in the Cream
  1. With the pot off the heat, pour in the half and half to add a luscious creaminess to the chowder. Stir well until fully incorporated.
  2. Allow the chowder to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings to your preference. Fresh ingredients will bring the best flavors to your chowder.

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