Corn chowder: it’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s packed with flavor. It’s the kind of soup that just warms you up from the inside out, especially when the weather gets chilly.
And now, you can make this classic soup even faster and easier with the help of your Instant Pot! Forget standing over the stove for ages; the Instant Pot makes achieving that perfect, creamy texture a breeze.
Ready to dive in? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a delicious corn chowder in your Instant Pot, from the ingredients you’ll need to step-by-step instructions, variations, and helpful tips.
Essential Ingredients for Instant Pot Corn Chowder
To make a creamy, flavorful corn chowder in your Instant Pot, you’ll need a few key ingredients.
Core ingredients
- Corn: Fresh or frozen corn is best. Canned corn will work in a pinch, but fresh or frozen corn will taste better. Frozen corn is easy to keep on hand, and using fresh corn when it’s in season will give you the best flavor.
- Potatoes: Potatoes give the chowder body and creaminess. Red potatoes are a good choice, but Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes will also work. Cut the potatoes into roughly half-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Broth: Chicken broth is the standard base for corn chowder, but you can easily substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Flavor enhancers
- Aromatics: Onion and garlic add layers of flavor. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic so their flavors can be evenly distributed throughout the chowder.
- Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based bacon or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Herbs and spices: Thyme, salt, and pepper are essential for seasoning. Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
Step-by-step instructions for making Instant Pot corn chowder
Here’s how to pull together a creamy, satisfying corn chowder in your Instant Pot:
Sautéing and building flavor
- If you’re using bacon, sauté it in the Instant Pot until it’s crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but leave the bacon fat in the pot. (Cooking the bacon first gives the chowder a smoky flavor.)
- Add onion and garlic to the bacon fat (or olive oil) and sauté until they’re soft. (Sautéing brings out the flavor of these aromatics.)
- Stir in the thyme and cook for another minute.
Pressure cooking
- Add the potatoes, corn, and broth to the Instant Pot. (Make sure the broth covers the potatoes and corn.)
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 6-15 minutes, depending on how tender you want the potatoes to be. (Start with 6 minutes if you want them slightly firm; 15 minutes will make them very soft.)
- Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. (A natural pressure release helps keep the chowder from splattering.)
Finishing touches
- Stir in the half-and-half or cream. (Adding the dairy at the end prevents it from curdling.)
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until it melts. (This is optional, but it makes the chowder extra creamy and flavorful.)
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.
Thickening Your Instant Pot Corn Chowder
If you want your chowder to be extra thick and hearty, there are a couple of ways to achieve that perfect consistency.
Roux Method
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is a classic mixture of fat and flour designed to thicken sauces and soups.
- Gradually whisk in some of the hot chowder liquid into the roux until it’s smooth.
- Pour the roux mixture back into the Instant Pot and stir well. Simmer for a few minutes until the chowder thickens.
Cornstarch Slurry Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry into the Instant Pot and stir well. Simmer for a few minutes, until the chowder thickens to your liking.
Variations and Customizations for Instant Pot Corn Chowder
One of the best things about corn chowder is how easy it is to customize to your liking. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan Corn Chowder: Trade out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Use plant-based milk, such as coconut or almond milk, and skip the bacon (or use a plant-based bacon substitute).
- Gluten-Free Corn Chowder: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux, or thicken the chowder with a cornstarch slurry instead.
Flavor Enhancements
- Spicy Corn Chowder: Add some heat with canned green chiles or sliced jalapenos.
- Seafood Corn Chowder: Toss in some shrimp or crab meat just a few minutes before the cooking time is up.
- Add other vegetables: Red bell pepper, leeks, or celery can add flavor and texture.
Topping Ideas
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or cilantro)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Hot sauce
- Oyster crackers
Storing, freezing, and reheating Instant Pot corn chowder
Here’s how to store any leftover corn chowder you might have:
Storing
- Let the corn chowder cool down completely.
- Transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze corn chowder before you add the half-and-half or cheese. Follow these steps:
- Let the chowder cool down completely.
- Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 to 3 months.
Reheating
- If frozen, thaw the corn chowder in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring it every so often.
- If you froze it before adding the dairy, stir in the half-and-half or cheese when you’re reheating it.
In Closing
This Instant Pot corn chowder recipe is so easy and versatile! With just a few simple ingredients and hardly any cooking time, you can have a satisfying and delicious meal on the table in minutes.
Don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients and seasonings to make the perfect bowl of corn chowder for you and your family.