Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder is a rich and hearty soup perfect for cool days or whenever you’re craving something comforting and cheesy. With a combination of sweet corn, creamy cheese, and a flavorful broth, this chowder brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying dish. It’s great as a main meal or a delicious starter for a dinner party.

What is Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder?

Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder is a thick, creamy soup made with sweet corn, melted cheese, and other vegetables like potatoes, onions, and peppers. The soup is rich and comforting, combining the sweetness of the corn with the creaminess of the cheese for a well-balanced, flavorful chowder. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a special meal with family.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Rich and creamy: The combination of cheese and corn creates a luxurious, creamy texture that’s irresistible.

Comforting and hearty: This chowder is a warm, filling meal that’s perfect for cold days.
Simple ingredients: Made with common pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
Customizable: You can easily add protein or extra veggies to make it your own.

Great for leftovers: This chowder reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder

4 tbsp unsalted butter
1 onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
1 tsp ground cumin (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder

Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the potatoes and corn: Stir in the diced potatoes and corn kernels, cooking for a few minutes until everything is combined and the vegetables are slightly tender.
Pour in the broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend partially (optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you like it chunkier, skip this step.

Stir in the cream and cheese: Add the heavy cream to the pot and stir well. Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Season: Add the ground cumin (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder

Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy chowder.
Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chowder.
Bacon bits: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for extra flavor and texture.

Grilled cheese sandwich: Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Avocado slices: Add a few slices of fresh avocado on top for extra creaminess.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder

Use fresh or frozen corn: Fresh corn offers the best flavor, but frozen works just as well, especially when corn is out of season.

Choose a good melting cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are great options because they melt smoothly and add creaminess to the chowder.
Blend for your preferred texture: Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky if you prefer more bite.
Season carefully: Taste the soup before adding too much salt, especially if using store-bought broth, which can be salty.

Add protein: For a heartier chowder, add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to the soup.
Garnish generously: Fresh herbs, extra cheese, or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor of the chowder.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder

Spicy Corn and Cheese Chowder: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Vegetarian Corn and Cheese Chowder: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat for a fully vegetarian version.
Bacon Corn Chowder: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for added smoky flavor.
Cheesy Chicken Corn Chowder: Add shredded cooked chicken for a protein-packed, heartier soup.

Southwest Corn Chowder: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and a dash of chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist.

Storing Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder: Best Practices

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze in portions by transferring the cooled chowder to freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Label and date the containers to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder: Best Practices

Microwave: Reheat individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Slow Cooker: Reheat the chowder in a slow cooker on low heat for 1-2 hours.

FAQs

Can you freeze corn and cheese chowder?

Yes, corn and cheese chowder can be frozen. Allow the chowder to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do you prevent cheese from curdling in corn and cheese chowder?

To prevent cheese from curdling, add it slowly and stir constantly over low heat. Make sure the soup is not boiling when adding the cheese, as high heat can cause the cheese to break down and curdle.

What is the best type of cheese for corn chowder?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are great choices for corn chowder because they melt smoothly and add a rich, creamy texture. You can also use a combination of both for extra flavor.

Can I add meat to corn and cheese chowder?

Yes, adding meat like cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon can make corn and cheese chowder heartier. Stir in cooked meat during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through before serving.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Corn and Cheese Chowder is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you want a warm, satisfying meal. With its creamy texture, sweet corn, and melted cheese, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite.

Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, it’s a go-to recipe for when you need a hearty soup that delivers on both taste and comfort. Try it today and enjoy the cozy, comforting goodness of homemade corn and cheese chowder!

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