Creamy & Healthy Corn Chowder Soup: A 3-Point Weight Watchers Delight
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy soup to comfort the soul, and this corn chowder soup delivers on all fronts. It’s a vibrant, veggie-packed delight that promises both rich flavor and satisfying texture without the heavy calorie count. Perfect for any season, this recipe cleverly uses pantry staples like canned corn, making it incredibly accessible, while fresh ingredients like carrots, green onions, and savory ham elevate its taste profile. Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this chowder is a fantastic choice.
Our recipe is specifically designed to be Weight Watchers-friendly, utilizing skim milk and a touch of cornstarch and potato to achieve that luxurious, thick texture without excess fat. Each generous serving clocks in at just 3 Weight Watchers points, making it an ideal option for those focusing on healthy eating. It’s not just about the points, though; this soup is incredibly filling thanks to the fiber-rich corn and satisfying vegetables. Easy to prepare and made from simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a family favorite that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
The Enduring Appeal of Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is a dish with universal appeal, renowned for its comforting nature and versatility. It holds a special place in many hearts, and for good reason! The blend of sweet corn, tender potatoes, and aromatic vegetables creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is both wholesome and incredibly delicious. This particular recipe goes a step further by offering a healthy rendition that doesn’t compromise on taste or satisfaction, making it a standout choice for health-conscious eaters and food lovers alike.
One of the primary reasons to embrace this corn chowder is its family-friendly nature. Its creamy consistency and small, digestible pieces of vegetables make it an excellent option for children, who often enjoy its mild, sweet flavor. My own son has adored this soup since childhood, a testament to its broad appeal across all ages. Beyond being a kid-pleaser, it’s packed with essential nutrients from the diverse range of vegetables, providing a wholesome meal that fuels and nourishes.
Weight Watchers Friendly & Nutrient-Packed
What truly sets this corn chowder apart is its incredible health benefits and Weight Watchers compatibility. At only 3 Weight Watchers points per serving, it’s a guilt-free pleasure that allows you to enjoy a substantial, flavorful meal while staying on track with your wellness goals. The corn kernels are a powerhouse of fiber, which is crucial for digestive health and helps you feel full and satisfied for longer, preventing overeating. This means you can indulge in a hearty bowl without worrying about excessive calories or points.
Moreover, the beauty of this soup extends to its year-round suitability. While a warm, creamy chowder is undeniably perfect for chasing away winter chills, its vibrant corn and fresh vegetable components also make it a delightful, lighter option for summer evenings. It’s a versatile dish that adapts to the season, always delivering a comforting and delicious experience. The ease of preparation, combined with readily available ingredients, further solidifies its position as a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking.
Recipe at a Glance
Get ready to whip up this amazing corn chowder with minimal fuss. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups (375 ml)
- WW Points Per Serving: 3 (You can view the recipe on the WW Apphere. WW login required.)
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Corn Chowder
Crafting this flavorful corn chowder begins with a selection of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a harmonious and comforting dish. While many of these are likely already in your pantry or fridge, selecting high-quality produce and smoked ham will undoubtedly enhance the final taste. We utilize canned corn for ultimate convenience, but fresh or frozen corn kernels work beautifully, offering flexibility depending on what you have on hand or the season. Low-fat milk is key to keeping this recipe Weight Watchers-friendly, while cornstarch acts as our thickening agent, ensuring a rich and creamy texture without adding unnecessary fats.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Flavorful Chowder
Making this corn chowder is a straightforward process, broken down into simple steps that even a novice cook can follow with ease. The key to a truly delicious chowder lies in building layers of flavor, starting with crisping the ham and sautéing the aromatics. This foundational step extracts maximum taste, which then infuses into the vegetables and broth. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure your chowder turns out perfectly creamy, rich, and utterly satisfying.
Crafting the Perfect Consistency and Flavor
Achieving the ideal creamy consistency is crucial for any chowder, and our recipe employs a clever trick using a milk and cornstarch slurry, combined with a partial blend. This method ensures your soup is wonderfully thick and smooth, yet still retains delightful chunks of vegetables for texture. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust your seasonings throughout the cooking process, as this allows you to tailor the flavors precisely to your liking. The following recipe card provides all the details you need to make this incredible soup.
Corn Chowder
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil, 5 ml
- 4 oz smoked ham, diced (113 g)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup or 150 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (about 1/4 cup or 25 g)
- 2 medium carrots, diced (about 1 cup or 128 g)
- 1 small potato, cubed (about 80 g)
- 3 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen (495 g)
- 2 cups low-fat milk, 450 ml
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 16 g
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 480 ml
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, 0.5 g
Instructions
-
Crisp the ham: Heat the teaspoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced ham and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the ham with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
-
Saute aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced green onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
-
Soften hard veggies: Add the diced carrots and cubed potato to the pot. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften.
-
Add remaining ies: Pour in the corn kernels and stir to combine with the other vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
-
Simmer: Add the chicken broth to the pot and stir well. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
-
Make a slurry: In a separate bowl, whisk together the low-fat milk and cornstarch until no lumps remain. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
-
Blend: While the soup is simmering, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer about 2 cups of the soup to a regular blender, pulse a few times, then return it to the pot.
-
Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If using, add the dried thyme at this point.
-
Finish cooking: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Garnish and serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with the reserved crispy ham bits and additional sliced green onions if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Variations and Substitutions to Customize Your Chowder
The true charm of corn chowder lies in its remarkable versatility. While our base recipe offers a delightful and healthy foundation, don’t hesitate to experiment with different additions and substitutions to tailor it to your palate or dietary needs. Customizing your chowder is an exciting way to make this comforting dish uniquely yours, whether you’re adding new vegetables, experimenting with different proteins, or exploring diverse flavor profiles.
For those mindful of their Weight Watchers points, consider incorporating a wider array of low-point vegetables. Diced celery or bell peppers can add a satisfying crunch and freshness, while a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a warm, subtle heat without significantly increasing the calorie count. Fresh herbs, such as chopped thyme, parsley, or chives, stirred in at the end, can brighten the flavors and add an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
Exploring Protein Alternatives
While smoked ham provides a classic, savory element to this chowder, you have many options for protein. For a lighter touch, shredded cooked chicken or turkey can be added, making it a “chicken corn chowder.” If you’re looking for a seafood variation, consider adding cooked shrimp or flaked white fish during the last few minutes of simmering to create a delicious seafood corn chowder. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham and add an extra cup of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein and fiber.
Beyond Corn: A World of Chowders
If you find yourself enamored with the concept of chowder but wish to explore beyond corn, there’s a rich tapestry of options available. The iconic New England Clam Chowder, with its velvety cream base and tender clams, is a beloved classic. For a lighter, tomato-based alternative, try Manhattan Clam Chowder, which offers a zesty contrast. Seafood enthusiasts can dive into a hearty Seafood Chowder, brimming with a medley of fish, scallops, and other shellfish. And for those who appreciate simplicity and comforting textures, a robust Potato Chowder, perhaps with some leeks or cheese, never fails to deliver a satisfying meal. Each variation offers a unique culinary experience, proving that chowder is truly a dish for all tastes.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Corn Chowder
Achieving a truly exceptional corn chowder goes beyond just following the recipe steps; it involves a few expert tips and tricks that can significantly enhance the flavor, texture, and overall enjoyment of your dish. From the initial preparation to the final garnish, these insights will help you craft a chowder that’s both delicious and perfectly balanced.
- Crisping the Ham for Flavor Depth: Don’t skip the crucial first step of crisping the diced ham in the pot. This process not only renders out flavorful fat that you’ll use to sauté the vegetables, but it also creates irresistible crispy bits. Remove these golden ham pieces and set them aside; they make a fantastic, textural garnish when serving. This step truly builds the foundational flavor of your chowder.
- Building Flavor with Aromatics: After the ham is crisped, utilize the residual fat in the same pot to sauté your onions, garlic, and green onions. This infuses the base of your soup with savory, aromatic notes, creating a deeper, more complex flavor profile. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, not browned.
- Perfecting the Consistency with Cornstarch: When it comes to thickening, ensure your cornstarch is thoroughly dissolved in the low-fat milk to create a smooth slurry. Whisk it well in a separate bowl until no lumps remain before slowly pouring it into the simmering soup, stirring constantly. This prevents clumps and ensures a silky, creamy texture.
- Don’t Skimp on the Vegetables: For maximum nutrition, fiber, and flavor, be generous with your vegetables. Carrots, potatoes, and corn are core components, but feel free to add other Weight Watchers-friendly veggies like diced celery, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach at the very end for extra goodness.
- Control Sodium with Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth. This allows you complete control over the salt content of your chowder, letting you season it to your personal preference without risking an overly salty dish.
- Maximize Corn Flavor (Fresh Corn Option): If you’re using fresh corn, consider an extra step for a burst of fresh corn flavor. After cutting the kernels off the cobs, use the back of your knife to scrape down the cobs. This extracts the “corn milk,” a milky, starchy liquid that adds incredible depth and sweetness to your chowder.
- Achieve Varied Texture Through Partial Blending: For the best eating experience, partially blend your soup. An immersion blender is ideal for this, allowing you to blend directly in the pot, leaving some corn kernels and vegetable chunks whole. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer about 2 cups of the soup, pulse a few times to achieve a chunky consistency, then return it to the pot. This creates a pleasing contrast between smooth and textured elements.
- Final Seasoning and Herb Addition: Always taste and adjust your seasoning at the end. Salt and pepper are essential, but this is also the perfect time to stir in optional dried thyme or any other fresh herbs you choose. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes after seasoning to let all the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cozy Meal
A bowl of this creamy corn chowder is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate the experience. Consider serving it with a crusty whole-grain bread for dipping, which adds to the comfort factor and helps soak up every last drop. A light side salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. For an extra touch of indulgence (still Weight Watchers friendly!), you can top it with a small dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded low-fat cheese. Don’t forget the reserved crispy ham bits and a fresh scattering of green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers
This corn chowder makes for fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors deepen. To store, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this chowder freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore its original consistency if it has thickened too much.
Conclusion: A Comforting Classic for Any Season
This creamy and healthy corn chowder soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor comfort, flavor, and wholesome goodness. With its incredible versatility, ease of preparation, and impressive Weight Watchers credentials, it’s truly a dish that earns its place as a family favorite. Whether you’re gathering around the table on a chilly evening or seeking a light yet satisfying meal on a warm day, this chowder promises to deliver a delightful experience. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade soup that nourishes both body and soul.