There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm bowl of chowder on a chilly day. Just the other evening, I was craving something hearty yet light, and while browsing my pantry, I stumbled upon a bag of corn kernels and a few fresh herbs. That’s when the idea hit me: a deliciously creamy Basil Corn Chowder. The vibrant green of fresh basil paired with the sweet crunch of corn transforms a simple dish into a delightful experience.
In just 25 minutes, this chowder can whisk you away from your fast-food rut and into a comforting, homemade moment. With easy-to-find ingredients and prep that can fit seamlessly into your busy day, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enhance their weeknight meals. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll wonder why you settled for takeout for so long. Let’s dive into the recipe that’s destined to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why is Basil Corn Chowder a must-try?
Simplicity reigns with this recipe; it’s quick to whip up in just 25 minutes, allowing you to savor homemade flavors without a hassle. Creamy texture from heavy cream coupled with fresh basil offers a deliciously rich experience. Hearty yet light, each bowl is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it guilt-free. Perfect for meal prep, you can enjoy leftovers the next day, enhancing that comforting chowder vibe. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—ideal for family dinners or impressing guests. If you’re craving something warm and satisfying, don’t miss out on making this delightful dish!
Basil Corn Chowder Ingredients
For the Chowder
- Butter – adds a rich, creamy base to the chowder.
- Chopped fresh basil – infuses a vibrant flavor that enhances the sweetness of the corn.
- Chopped scallions – add a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- All-purpose flour – helps thicken the chowder, creating a luscious consistency.
- Corn kernels – provide natural sweetness and texture, making this dish truly special.
- Frozen diced potatoes – easy to use and add heartiness without the extra prep.
- Chicken broth – forms the savory foundation of the chowder, boosting the flavor.
- Heavy cream – gives the chowder that decadent, creamy richness to balance out the ingredients.
- Kosher salt – brings all the flavors together for a more enticing experience.
- Black pepper – adds a subtle kick to elevate the overall taste of your Basil Corn Chowder.
How to Make Basil Corn Chowder
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Melt the butter in a medium pot over high heat and watch as it transforms into a sizzling base for your flavors. Add the chopped scallions and basil, cooking for just 1 minute to release their aromatic goodness. Then, whisk in the flour until a roux forms, creating a silky texture.
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Combine the chicken broth, heavy cream, corn, and frozen diced potatoes into the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a boil; then, reduce the heat to medium. Allow the chowder to gently simmer on low for 15 minutes. The colors should be vibrant, and your kitchen will be filled with enticing aromas!
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Season your chowder with kosher salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to ensure the perfect balance. This step brings everything together, enhancing the flavors of your Basil Corn Chowder beautifully.
Optional: Top with extra chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Basil Corn Chowder?
Is there anything better than a comforting bowl of chowder accompanied by delightful sides to elevate your meal experience?
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread adds texture and is perfect for dipping into your chowder. The buttery flavor complements the creaminess beautifully.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens topped with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder, adding a burst of freshness to your plate.
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Cheddar Biscuits: Flaky and cheesy, these biscuits introduce a savory twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweet corn in the chowder.
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Grilled Shrimp Skewers: The smoky notes from the grill enhance the chowder’s flavors while providing a delightful contrast to its creamy texture.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini introduce earthy elements that harmonize nicely with the bright basil within the chowder.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: For a fun crunch, serve crispy tortilla chips on the side; they add a delightful texture and can even be used for scooping.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit medley offers a refreshing counterpoint to the savory chowder, lightening your meal with bright flavors.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc carries citrus notes that dance alongside the flavors of basil and corn, enhancing your dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light chocolate dessert; its rich creaminess wraps the meal up beautifully, leaving everyone satisfied.
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful Basil Corn Chowder ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the scallions and basil up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can measure out the flour, corn, and potatoes a few days ahead, making the cooking process seamless. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply melt the butter and follow the recipe starting from step one. For best results, allow the chowder to cool completely before refrigerating any leftovers, ensuring it stays just as delicious when reheated! This advance prep can save you precious time, letting you savor homemade comfort food even on your busiest nights.
How to Store and Freeze Basil Corn Chowder
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the chowder to cool completely before sealing to maintain its luscious texture.
Freezer: Basil Corn Chowder freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to restore its creamy consistency.
Additional Tip: If the chowder thickens after freezing, stir in a little chicken broth or cream to bring it back to life!
Expert Tips for Basil Corn Chowder
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Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest corn and basil possible. This enhances the chowder’s flavor, making it feel homey and vibrant.
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Consistency Check: If your chowder is too thick, stir in a bit more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
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Season Gradually: Always taste as you season! If you add salt and pepper too quickly, you risk overpowering the lovely flavors of your Basil Corn Chowder.
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Rest Before Serving: Let the chowder sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Freezer Friendly: Want to make it ahead? Basil Corn Chowder freezes well! Portion it out and enjoy it later for a quick meal on busy days.
Basil Corn Chowder Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own by incorporating these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Vegan: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use vegetable broth. The creamy texture with a hint of sweetness steals the show!
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Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your chowder a warm kick. This will invigorate your taste buds and bring that satisfying heat!
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh thyme or oregano for an extra burst of flavor. These herbs complement basil beautifully and create an aromatic experience.
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Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a savory addition that enhances the chowder’s creaminess. Cheese lovers will rejoice at this delectable modification!
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Smoky Flavor: Introduce some smoked paprika or cook with diced smoked sausage. The smokiness adds depth, perfect for cozy evenings.
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Texture Twist: For added crunch, top with crispy bacon bits or toasted pumpkin seeds. These toppings elevate the overall experience with contrasting textures.
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Sweetness Swap: Replace some corn with diced sweet potatoes for a unique twist. This adds natural sweetness and a delightful texture variation.
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Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken your chowder. It’s an easy swap that retains all the flavors without the gluten!
Basil Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs
What type of corn should I use for Basil Corn Chowder?
Absolutely! Fresh sweet corn is ideal, bringing a delightful crunch and natural sweetness. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn kernels work perfectly too—just ensure they’re thawed before adding to your chowder.
How should I store leftover Basil Corn Chowder?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the chowder to cool completely before sealing to help maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Basil Corn Chowder?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, portion the chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my chowder is too thick after freezing?
Very understandable! If your chowder thickens upon thawing, just stir in a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to restore that luscious creaminess.
Are there any dietary considerations for this chowder?
Of course! Basil Corn Chowder is vegetarian-friendly, but for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, try substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Always check ingredients like broth for allergens, especially if serving guests with special dietary needs.
What if I don’t have fresh basil on hand?
No worries at all! Dried basil can be an alternative; use 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil. Although it won’t deliver quite the same fresh pop of flavor, it still adds a lovely herbaceous note to your chowder.
Savory Basil Corn Chowder: A Creamy Feast in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a medium pot over high heat and add the chopped scallions and basil, cooking for just 1 minute.
- Whisk in the flour until a roux forms, creating a silky texture.
- Combine the chicken broth, heavy cream, corn, and frozen diced potatoes into the pot. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium and allow the chowder to gently simmer on low for 15 minutes.
- Season with kosher salt and black pepper, tasting as you go for balance.
- Optional: Top with extra chopped fresh basil before serving.