Creamy & Delicious Instant Pot Corn Chowder: Your Ultimate Guide

Imagine a bowl of rich, creamy soup brimming with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and savory bacon. This dream can become a reality in less time than you think, thanks to your Instant Pot! Our Instant Pot Corn Chowder recipe is a masterpiece of comfort food, blending classic flavors into a hearty, satisfying meal that’s surprisingly quick to prepare. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a light yet filling supper during warmer months, this easy corn chowder is your perfect solution.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the magical touch of the Instant Pot. It transforms humble ingredients like fresh (or frozen) corn, diced potatoes, and crispy bacon into a luxurious, flavorful chowder that tastes like it simmered for hours. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a delicious homemade soup that truly delivers on taste and convenience.

The Easiest Corn Chowder Recipe Ever

Making a truly memorable corn chowder doesn’t have to be an all-day affair. With this recipe, your Instant Pot does most of the heavy lifting, allowing you to create a deeply flavorful, creamy chowder with minimal effort. This isn’t just an easy dinner recipe; it’s a celebration of savory flavors and delightful textures. Each spoonful offers crispy bacon bits, juicy corn kernels, and perfectly cooked potatoes, all enveloped in a velvety broth that will leave you craving more.

While corn chowder is a fantastic meal for any season, it truly shines in the summer when fresh corn is at its peak. Using fresh, in-season corn will elevate your soup to an unparalleled level of sweetness and flavor. However, don’t despair if fresh corn isn’t available! Frozen or canned corn works beautifully too, making this a versatile recipe you can enjoy all year round. We’ll guide you on how to best utilize each option to ensure your chowder is always delicious.

Why Choose the Instant Pot for Corn Chowder?

If you own an Instant Pot, you know its power to simplify cooking. For corn chowder, it’s an absolute game-changer. Here’s why cooking your chowder in a pressure cooker is a brilliant idea:

• Significantly Shorter Cook Time: Traditional chowder recipes can take considerable time to simmer on the stovetop. The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet-quality soup in a fraction of the time.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once you’ve added your ingredients and set the pressure, the Instant Pot takes over. This means less standing over a hot stove, especially appealing on a warm day.
• Deeply Infused Flavors: Pressure cooking forces liquids and flavors into the ingredients more efficiently, resulting in a chowder with a richer, more profound taste that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked all day.
• One-Pot Convenience: Sautéing bacon and onions, cooking potatoes and corn, and even thickening the soup can all happen in the same pot, minimizing cleanup.
• Consistent Results: The Instant Pot maintains precise temperatures and pressure, ensuring your potatoes are perfectly tender and your chowder is consistently creamy every time.

Essential Recipe Ingredients for Your Perfect Chowder

Crafting this incredible Instant Pot Corn Chowder requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that coveted creamy, hearty consistency. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bacon: The foundation of flavor! Diced bacon is first cooked until crispy, rendering savory fat that will be used to sauté the aromatics. Reserve some crispy bits for an irresistible garnish.
• Yellow Onion: Finely diced, it adds a sweet and pungent aromatic base when sautéed in the bacon fat.
• Minced Garlic: A staple in most savory dishes, fresh minced garlic provides a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Chicken Broth: The liquid base for our soup. Opt for lower sodium chicken broth to better control the overall saltiness of your chowder.
• Potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal for chowder as they hold their shape well while still becoming wonderfully tender. Cut them into 1/2 inch cubes for even cooking. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used, but red potatoes lend a nice color and texture.
• Corn Kernels: The star of the show! Whether you choose fresh, frozen, or canned, ensure they are drained well. Fresh corn, cut straight from the cob, will provide the brightest, sweetest flavor.
• Dried Thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy, and aromatic note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the chowder. Always season to taste.
• Bay Leaf: A classic addition to soups and stews, a single bay leaf infuses the chowder with a delicate, herbaceous aroma. Remember to remove it before serving.
• Half and Half: This is what gives our chowder its luxurious, creamy texture without being overly heavy. For an even richer chowder, you could substitute with heavy cream.
• Cornstarch: Mixed with half and half, it creates a slurry that thickens the chowder to the perfect consistency, preventing lumps.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Stirred in at the end, the cheese melts into the chowder, adding a delicious tang and extra creaminess. Sharp cheddar works wonderfully here.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a fresh, mild oniony bite and a pop of color for garnish.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds brightness and a lovely finishing touch, making your dish as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

How to Make Creamy Corn Chowder in Your Instant Pot

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping Instant Pot Corn Chowder:

1. Crisp the Bacon: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the SAUTÉ function. Add your diced bacon and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired crispiness. The smaller the dice, the crispier the bacon will become. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the rendered fat behind. Set the crispy bacon aside for later use.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely diced yellow onions to the bacon fat remaining in the Instant Pot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 20 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth slowly, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This crucial step, known as deglazing, prevents a “BURN” error and adds immense flavor to your chowder.
4. Add Core Ingredients: Now, add the cubed potatoes, corn kernels, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf to the Instant Pot. Give everything a gentle stir to combine, ensuring the ingredients are submerged in the broth.
5. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the sealing ring is properly in place and the vent is set to SEALING. Select the PRESSURE COOK (or Manual) setting on HIGH pressure and set the timer for 15 minutes.
6. Quick Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick release (QR) by turning the venting knob to the VENTING position. Stand clear of the steam as it releases rapidly. Wait until the floating valve drops down completely before proceeding.
7. Remove Lid & Bay Leaf: Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid. Carefully remove and discard the bay leaf.
8. Thicken the Chowder: Change the Instant Pot setting back to SAUTÉ. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the chowder in the Instant Pot, stirring continuously.
9. Simmer to Thicken: Continue to cook the chowder on SAUTÉ for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be rich and creamy.
10. Stir in Cheese & Bacon: Turn off the Instant Pot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and smooth. Then, add about half of your reserved crispy bacon bits into the chowder.
11. Serve & Garnish: Ladle the warm, creamy chowder into individual soup bowls. Garnish generously with the remaining crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese (if desired), freshly sliced green onions, and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately and savor every spoonful!

Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Corn Chowder Soup

Achieving the perfect creamy Instant Pot Corn Chowder is easy with these helpful tips:

• Always Perform a Quick Release: It’s crucial to do a quick release of pressure before attempting to remove the lid from your Instant Pot. This ensures all the internal pressure is safely relieved, preventing any potential hazards. Always follow your Instant Pot’s safety guidelines.
• Choose Your Corn Wisely: While fresh, in-season corn offers the best flavor and texture, frozen or canned corn are excellent alternatives. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels directly from the cob. For canned corn, drain it thoroughly to avoid diluting the chowder’s flavor. Frozen corn can be added directly to the pot without thawing.
• Season to Perfection: Taste your chowder before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. If your corn is particularly sweet, a little extra salt can help balance the flavors. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a touch of heat.
• Prevent the “BURN” Message: The key to avoiding a “BURN” error is thorough deglazing. After sautéing, ensure you scrape all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the broth. This prevents food from sticking and burning.
• Achieving Ideal Thickness: If your chowder isn’t as thick as you’d like after adding the cornstarch slurry and simmering, you can make another small slurry with equal parts cornstarch and cold water and stir it in slowly, simmering for a few more minutes until desired consistency is reached.
• For a Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and sauté onions and garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The rest of the recipe remains the same, providing a delightful meat-free chowder.

Delicious Mix-In & Topping Ideas

Elevate your Instant Pot Corn Chowder with these fantastic additions and garnishes:

• Extra Cheese & Bacon for Garnish: Don’t underestimate the power of a generous sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar and the remaining crispy bacon bits right before serving. The bacon retains its crunch, and the fresh cheese melts slightly, adding incredible flavor and visual appeal.
• Boost with More Protein: To make your chowder even more substantial, consider stirring in some shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or finely cubed ham after the chowder has thickened. Shrimp can also be a wonderful addition; stir in cooked shrimp just before serving to warm through.
• Crispy Toppings: For a delightful crunch, serve your chowder with a side of oyster crackers, homemade croutons, or even some crushed tortilla chips. They’re delicious both crunchy and once they’ve soaked up some of the creamy soup.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to customize your chowder with your favorite vegetables. Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be sautéed along with the onions to add more nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce stirred into individual bowls can add an exciting twist.

What to Serve with Your Hearty Corn Chowder

While Instant Pot Corn Chowder is satisfying enough to be a meal on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can truly complete the dining experience. Here are some perfect partners:

• Freshly Baked Bread: There’s nothing quite like dipping warm, crusty bread into creamy chowder. Serve it with a simple slice of baguette, this Easy Homemade Flatbread, or even fluffy homemade popovers for a truly comforting meal.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For a balanced and complete dinner, a lighter protein pairs wonderfully. Try serving a bowl of chowder alongside our 20-minute Mojo Grilled Chicken or a simple pan-seared white fish.
• A Crisp Side Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad cuts through the richness of the chowder, offering a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or something more substantial like this Roasted Vegetable Salad, makes for an ideal summer meal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Chowder is often just as good, if not better, the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your delicious leftovers safely.

• Storage: Allow any leftover chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently simmer the chowder over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through. If the chowder has thickened too much in the fridge, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the dairy content (half-and-half), this chowder doesn’t freeze particularly well. The dairy can sometimes separate or become grainy upon thawing and reheating, affecting the creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Corn Chowder

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, while red potatoes are recommended for their ability to hold shape, Yukon Gold or even Russet potatoes can be used. Just ensure they are cut into uniform 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil or butter. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, in addition to the above, replace the half-and-half with a plant-based cream (like full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream) and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How can I make my chowder thicker or thinner?

If your chowder is too thin, create another small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp cold water) and stir it into the simmering chowder until it reaches your desired thickness. If it’s too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or half-and-half, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the perfect consistency.

What if I don’t have fresh corn?

No problem! Frozen corn kernels can be used directly from the freezer. If using canned corn, make sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly before adding to the pot.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to get creative! Diced carrots, celery, or even bell peppers can be sautéed with the onions to add more flavor and nutrients. Add them at the same time as the onions.

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5 from 13 votes

Quick & Easy Instant Pot Corn Chowder

by
Easy Weeknight Recipes Team

This creamy Instant Pot Corn Chowder is a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal packed with bacon, potatoes, sweet corn, and rich cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick, hearty dinner that’s bursting with flavor!

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
25 minutes

Total Time:
35 minutes

Servings:
8

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (lower sodium recommended)
• 3 cups (approx. 14 ounces) red potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch cubes (about 3-4 medium potatoes)
• 3 cups corn kernels, rinsed and drained (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Crumbled bacon, optional, for garnish
• Extra shredded cheese, optional, for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to SAUTÉ mode.
2. Add diced bacon and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add diced onions to the remaining bacon fat and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
5. Add potatoes, corn, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the Instant Pot. Stir gently.
6. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to SEALING.
7. Select PRESSURE COOK (or Manual) on HIGH pressure and set for 15 minutes.
8. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of pressure. Carefully open the lid after the float valve drops.
9. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
10. Change the Instant Pot setting back to SAUTÉ.
11. In a separate bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and cornstarch until smooth.
12. Stir the half-and-half mixture into the soup in the Instant Pot.
13. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chowder has thickened to your preference.
14. Turn off the Instant Pot. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted, then add half of the reserved crispy bacon.
15. Divide the chowder into bowls and garnish with the remaining bacon, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, green onions, and fresh parsley.
16. Serve warm and enjoy!

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Nutrition Information (Estimate Per Serving)

Calories: 293 kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 916mg | Potassium: 693mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 276IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 157mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional information is an estimate provided as a courtesy. Values may vary significantly based on specific ingredients and cooking methods. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed and accurate information.

This Instant Pot Corn Chowder is more than just a recipe; it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Its ease of preparation in the Instant Pot makes it a go-to for busy weeknights, while its rich taste makes it special enough for entertaining. We hope you love making and sharing this delightful chowder as much as we do. Don’t forget to experiment with the mix-ins and toppings to make it truly your own!

If you tried this recipe, we’d love to hear from you! Please leave a rating and share your thoughts in the comments below. Your feedback helps us and other home cooks discover new favorite recipes.