Craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy corn chowder with sausage is the perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal packed with flavor, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best. It's a recipe that's sure to become a family favorite, perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying lunch. Let's dive in!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread (for serving)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
This corn chowder recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. Let's get cooking!
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Add Corn, Tomatoes, and Sausage
Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and the cooked sausage. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Creamy Perfection
Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and heat through. Do not boil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. This is the perfect comforting meal for a cool evening, or a satisfying lunch.
Tips and Tricks for Chowder Success
- Sausage Selection: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as andouille or chorizo, to change the flavor profile.
- Corn Variety: Fresh corn is ideal, but frozen corn works just as well.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Rotel to your preferred spice level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creaminess: For a thicker chowder, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at the end of cooking.
- Make it Ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Potato Corn Chowder: Add 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, along with the onions and celery.
- Cheesy Corn Chowder: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Bacon Corn Chowder: Substitute bacon for the sausage for a smoky twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy corn chowder recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes, healthy meals, and best recipes. Enjoy!