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Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder

Savory Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder for Cozy Nights

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Summer Corn and Zucchini Chowder, perfect for warm evenings or chilly nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chowder
  • 4 slices Bacon Adds smokiness and depth of flavor; substitute with pancetta or turkey bacon for a leaner option.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides sweetness and aroma; white or red onion could also be used if you prefer.
  • 1 cup Celery Adds crunch and freshness; you can leave this out if it’s not your favorite.
  • 2 cups Fresh Corn Fills chowder with sweet kernels; frozen corn works as a great substitute if fresh is unavailable.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances overall flavor; in a pinch, use garlic powder instead.
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Acts as the soup's base; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 cups Russet Potatoes Provides heartiness; Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes make excellent substitutes.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Sea Salt Enhances flavor; adjust quantity if using table salt.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Feel free to adjust according to your taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme
  • 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 cup Zucchini Contributes freshness; any variety of summer squash will work beautifully.
  • 1 cup Yellow Squash
  • 1 cup Half and Half Brings creaminess to the chowder; whole milk or plant-based milk can be used for a lighter option.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • blender

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, place 4 slices of bacon over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and golden brown.
  2. Add 1 diced yellow onion and 1 cup of diced celery to the pot with the crispy bacon. Sauté for approximately 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Mix in 2 cups of fresh corn kernels, allowing them to cook for another 4 minutes, enhancing the chowder's sweetness.
  4. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth while increasing the heat to medium-high.
  5. Add 2 cups of cubed russet potatoes, along with 1 teaspoon of kosher sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of dried parsley, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
  6. Reduce the heat to medium and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender but still hold their shape.
  7. Introduce 1 cup of diced zucchini and 1 cup of yellow squash to the pot. Stir gently and cook for an additional 10 to 12 minutes until the vegetables are fully cooked and the potatoes are fork-tender.
  8. Carefully transfer 2 cups of the chowder into a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth, then return the mixture to the pot.
  9. Stir in 1 cup of half and half into the chowder, then remove the pot from heat.
  10. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Avoid freezing chowder with dairy to maintain its creamy texture. Customize with other seasonal vegetables, if desired.

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