Creamy Mexican Corn Soup: Easy, Healthy & 1-Point Weight Watchers Recipe

Welcome to a culinary delight that will quickly become a household favorite: this Creamy Mexican Corn Soup. This Tex-Mex inspired creation is a testament to how simple, healthy, and economical ingredients can come together to form an exceptionally flavorful and satisfying meal. With its subtly sweet corn base, enhanced by a perfect blend of Mexican spices, tender sautéed aromatics, and the rich, tangy creaminess of Greek yogurt, every spoonful promises a comforting experience.

More than just a delicious dish, this savory blended soup offers a unique flavor profile that many describe as reminiscent of perfectly seasoned tortilla chips – a taste sensation that’s both comforting and incredibly appealing. It’s remarkably easy to make, comes together quickly, and pairs wonderfully with virtually any Mexican-style meal, or stands alone as a hearty and wholesome option. Best of all, for those mindful of their health and wellness goals, this recipe proudly clocks in at just 1 Weight Watchers SmartPoint per serving, making it a guilt-free pleasure you’ll want to prepare again and again.

Why This Creamy Mexican Corn Soup is a Must-Try

This soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a revelation. It’s incredibly satisfying and truly deserves to be a staple in American cuisine. I’ve seen firsthand how even my picky son, who usually shies away from vegetables, enthusiastically devours a bowl of this creamy goodness. The flavor is a delightful enigma, complex yet familiar, often eliciting comparisons to the savory crunch of well-seasoned, fried tortilla chips. It’s a unique taste that’s hard to accurately describe but undeniably delicious and comforting.

Beyond its irresistible flavor, the sheer simplicity of making this Mexican Corn Soup is a huge advantage. You don’t need exotic ingredients or advanced culinary skills. The process is straightforward: begin by chopping a large white onion, then peel and crush fresh garlic cloves. Next, add a generous amount of canned corn, along with a blend of vibrant Mexican spices, and simmer briefly in broth. Finally, blend everything until smooth and creamy, then stir in tangy Greek yogurt for that signature velvety texture. The entire preparation and cooking process is designed to be quick and fuss-free, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome and flavorful.

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to embrace this recipe is its health-conscious profile. This Creamy Mexican Corn Soup is an astounding 1 point on Weight Watchers! This makes it an ideal choice for anyone following a structured eating plan or simply aiming to incorporate more nutritious, low-calorie meals into their diet without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. It’s proof that healthy food can be utterly delicious and deeply comforting, offering a rich and creamy experience that feels indulgent but supports your wellness goals. This soup is a win-win for flavor, health, and convenience.

The Heart of the Flavor: Creamy Mexican Corn Soup Ingredients

The magic of this Creamy Mexican Corn Soup comes from a blend of accessible, high-quality ingredients that combine to create a symphony of Tex-Mex flavors. Each component plays a crucial role, contributing to the soup’s robust taste and luxurious texture. You’ll find most of these items are pantry staples, making this a go-to recipe for any occasion.

• 1 teaspoon of oil (5 ml): Just enough to gently sauté the aromatics and build a flavorful foundation. Any neutral oil like olive oil or avocado oil works well.
• 1 large white onion, chopped (about 1 cup, 150 g): Provides a sweet and pungent depth when softened, forming a key part of the soup’s aromatic base.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons, 20 g): Essential for that characteristic savory kick in Mexican cuisine. Freshly minced garlic offers the best flavor.
• 2 cans of corn kernels (15 oz each, 850 g total): The star ingredient, bringing natural sweetness and body to the soup. Canned corn is convenient and always reliable.
• 4 cups of chicken broth (960 ml): Forms the liquid base, infusing the soup with savory umami. For a vegetarian version, simply swap for vegetable broth.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (2 g): A signature spice in Tex-Mex cooking, delivering warm, earthy, and slightly smoky notes that are indispensable.
• 1 teaspoon paprika (2 g): Adds a beautiful reddish hue and a mild, sweet pepper flavor. Smoked paprika can be used for an extra layer of complexity.
• ½ teaspoon salt (3 g): Balances and enhances all the other flavors, making them pop. Adjust to your personal preference.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1 g): Provides a subtle warmth and rounds out the spice profile.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (1 g): Reinforces the fresh garlic flavor, adding another layer of aromatic richness without being overpowering.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (240 g): The secret to the soup’s luscious, creamy texture and tangy brightness, while keeping it light and healthy. It’s a brilliant low-fat alternative to heavy cream.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional) (15 ml): A splash of fresh lime juice at the end brightens the entire soup, adding a zesty finish that perfectly complements the Mexican spices. Highly recommended for that extra zing!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 generous servings

Serving Size: Approximately 2 cups (520 ml)

1 WW Point Per Serving. This makes it an outstanding choice for anyone looking for a hearty and flavorful meal without compromising their wellness goals. You can view the full recipe details on the Weight Watchers App here. (WW login required to access shared recipes.)

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Easy & Creamy Mexican Corn Soup

Creating this flavorful and healthy soup is surprisingly simple, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly smooth, rich, and aromatic Creamy Mexican Corn Soup that will impress with minimal effort.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by organizing your “mise en place.” Finely chop the white onion into small, consistent pieces to ensure even cooking. Mince the garlic cloves thoroughly; fresh garlic provides the best, most pungent flavor. Open and completely drain the liquid from both cans of corn kernels. Having everything prepped before you start cooking makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
2. Sauté the Aromatics and Toast the Spices: Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent. This step is crucial for developing a sweet, foundational flavor for your soup. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. Once the garlic is fragrant, stir in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Continue to cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, allowing the spices to toast lightly and release their full, intoxicating aromas. This short toasting period significantly deepens the overall flavor of the soup.

3. 

   Cook and Lightly Char the Corn: Add the drained corn kernels directly to the pot with the sautéed aromatics and spices. Stir everything thoroughly to combine, ensuring the corn is evenly coated with the spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes over medium heat, allowing the corn to heat through and develop a slight char on some of the kernels. This gentle browning intensifies the natural sweetness of the corn and adds a delightful, subtle depth of flavor to the finished soup.

4. 

   Simmer in Chicken Broth: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth. Give the mixture a good stir to incorporate all the ingredients. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer quietly for 10 minutes. This simmering period is essential, as it allows all the wonderful flavors from the corn, spices, and aromatics to fully meld and harmonize, creating a deeply satisfying broth.

5. 

   Blend the Soup to a Silky Smoothness: Once simmered, carefully transfer the hot soup mixture to a blender. If your blender has a smaller capacity, work in batches to avoid overfilling and ensure safe blending (always be cautious with hot liquids in a blender). Alternatively, for maximum convenience and less cleanup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy, with no discernible chunks of corn or onion remaining.

6. 

   Incorporate the Greek Yogurt: If you used a standalone blender, return the perfectly smooth soup to the pot. Stir in the plain Greek yogurt until it is fully incorporated and the soup achieves a uniformly creamy consistency. The Greek yogurt adds a delightful tang and richness without the extra fat, making the soup both decadent and healthy. At this stage, if desired, add the optional lime juice for a hint of citrusy brightness that truly elevates the authentic Mexican flavors.

7. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the soup carefully. Now is the time to adjust the seasonings as necessary. You might want to add a little more salt, black pepper, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of heat. Continue to adjust until the flavor profile perfectly suits your preferences.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm, creamy soup into individual bowls. For an appealing presentation and an extra burst of flavor and texture, garnish with a few reserved whole corn kernels, a generous dollop of fresh Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of paprika for color, or some freshly chopped cilantro or chives. Serve immediately and savor every spoonful of this homemade delight!

Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions for Your Creamy Mexican Corn Soup

This Creamy Mexican Corn Soup recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for easy customization based on your dietary needs, pantry staples, or simply your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious variations and smart substitutions:

1. Corn Choices: While our recipe calls for convenient canned corn, frozen corn works equally well. If opting for frozen, you might need to extend the cooking time slightly during the sautéing step to ensure it’s fully heated and gets that desirable light char. For a truly seasonal treat during late summer, fresh corn cut directly off the cob will impart an unbeatable sweetness and a slightly crisper texture.
2. Cheesy Additions: Elevate the Tex-Mex authenticity by topping your soup with cheese. A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco offers a mild, salty, and crumbly texture that’s a classic pairing with corn. If you’re looking for a melty, richer flavor, a small amount of shredded low-fat Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese can be a delicious addition. Just be mindful of your daily points allowance if you’re tracking with Weight Watchers.
3. Broth Alternatives: To make this a truly vegetarian or vegan Creamy Corn Soup, simply substitute the chicken broth with an equal amount of good quality vegetable broth. This swap will create a soup with a slightly milder, brighter flavor profile, allowing the natural sweetness of the corn to shine even more prominently.
4. Boosted Creaminess: For an even richer and thicker consistency, akin to a corn chowder, consider adding a can (approximately 14.75 oz or 420g) of creamed corn along with the regular corn kernels. This will enhance the corn flavor and contribute to an incredibly velvety mouthfeel, making the soup feel even more indulgent.
5. Smoky Depth: Introduce a sophisticated smoky note by replacing regular paprika with smoked paprika, or using a combination of both. For those who enjoy a bit of heat alongside the smoke, a tiny pinch of chipotle powder added during the spice sautéing step will provide a fantastic complex flavor.
6. Fresh Herb Garnish: A vibrant garnish can significantly brighten the soup’s flavors. Freshly chopped cilantro is a classic choice, offering a bright, citrusy, and herbaceous counterpoint. Alternatively, finely chopped chives can provide a delicate oniony kick, or a medley of both for a layered fresh taste.
7. Adjust the Heat: If you enjoy a spicier soup, consider adding a small, finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed for moderate heat) during the onion sautéing step. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred in at the end will also provide a pleasant warmth.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Creamy Mexican Corn Soup

Making an outstanding Creamy Mexican Corn Soup is simple, but a few expert tips can elevate your culinary creation from great to extraordinary. These tricks focus on enhancing flavor, perfecting texture, and making your cooking experience even more enjoyable.

1. Maximize Creaminess: To achieve an ultra-velvety texture, as suggested in the variations, add a can of creamed corn (around 14.75 oz / 420g) along with the drained corn kernels. This natural addition thickens the soup beautifully and intensifies the sweet corn flavor without the need for extra fats or thickeners.
2. Thoughtful Garnishing: Presentation significantly enhances the dining experience. Before blending, set aside a small handful of whole corn kernels to use as a colorful and textural garnish. A dollop of fresh Greek yogurt swirled into each serving bowl not only looks elegant but also adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the warm, spiced soup. Finish with a light dusting of paprika for visual appeal, or sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or chives for a burst of freshness.
3. Roasted Garlic for Deep Flavor: For a profoundly rich, sweet, and mellow garlic flavor, consider roasting your garlic cloves before incorporating them into the soup. Simply wrap whole, unpeeled cloves in foil, drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil, and roast in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until soft. Once cooled, squeeze out the pulp and mash it before adding to your sautéed onions. This step, while optional, adds an incredible depth that’s worth the extra effort.
4. Controlling Consistency: The ideal soup consistency is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer a thicker, more robust soup, you can use slightly less broth initially or simmer it for an extra few minutes to allow for more reduction. For a thinner, lighter soup, simply add a splash more chicken or vegetable broth (warm it first if possible) until you achieve your desired flow. Always adjust gradually, adding small amounts at a time.
5. Achieve a Silky Smooth Blend: To ensure your soup is perfectly smooth without any fibrous bits or lumps, blend it in batches if your blender isn’t very large. This prevents overfilling and allows the blades to work more effectively. For a truly professional, ultra-silky finish, you can carefully pass the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve or strainer. This step is optional but creates a remarkably refined texture.
6. Make Ahead and Storage: This Creamy Mexican Corn Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can easily prepare it a day or two in advance, as the flavors often deepen and meld even further overnight. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness.
7. Freezing for Future Enjoyment: For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a small amount of headspace to allow for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing its quality. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore its original consistency.

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Mexican Creamy Corn Soup

Servings: 4

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 20 minutes mins

Total: 30 minutes mins

A low-point blended soup recipe with vibrant Tex-Mex roots, perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients 

• ▢ 1 teaspoon of oil, (5 ml)
• ▢ 1 large white onion, chopped (about 1 cup, 150 g)
• ▢ 4 cloves of garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons, 20 g)
• ▢ 2 cans of corn kernels, 15 oz each, 850 g total
• ▢ 4 cups of chicken broth, 960 ml
• ▢ 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 2 g
• ▢ 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 g
• ▢ ½ teaspoon salt, 3 g
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 1 g
• ▢ ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 g
• ▢ 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 240 g
• ▢ 1 tablespoon lime juice, optional (15 ml)

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Instructions 

• Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the white onion into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves. Open the cans of corn and drain the liquid.
• Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Add the ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
• Cook the Corn: Add the drained corn kernels to the pot. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the corn to heat through and develop a slight char.
• Simmer in chicken broth: Pour in broth and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Incorporate the Yogurt: Return the blended soup to the pot if using a blender. Stir in the Greek yogurt until fully incorporated. If desired, add the lime juice for a hint of citrusy brightness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.
• Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional corn kernels, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

1 WW Point per serving. 

Nutrition

Serving: 562gCalories: 73kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 17gFat: 1.5gSaturated Fat: 0.7gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 374mgPotassium: 770mgFiber: 5.4gSugar: 3.6gCalcium: 83mgIron: 0.3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Always consult a certified nutritionist or healthcare professional for precise dietary advice tailored to your needs.

Additional Info

Course: Soup

Cuisine: tex-mex

Tried this recipe?Mention @drizzlemeskinny or tag #drizzlemeskinny!

The Healthy Advantage: Why This Creamy Corn Soup is Good for You

Beyond its incredible taste and remarkable ease of preparation, this Creamy Mexican Corn Soup offers significant health benefits, making it a stellar addition to any balanced diet, especially for those actively managing their weight or prioritizing nutritious eating:

• Nutrient-Rich Corn: Corn is a wonderful source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for healthy digestion and can help stabilize blood sugar levels. It’s also packed with essential vitamins, including various B vitamins (like folate and thiamine), and important minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus, all contributing to overall bodily function and well-being.
• Power of Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is the hero behind the soup’s luxurious creamy texture without the added guilt of heavy cream. Its high protein content is excellent for promoting satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer periods, which is a key factor in successful weight management. Additionally, Greek yogurt delivers beneficial probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome and is an excellent source of calcium for strong bones.
• Aromatic & Immune-Boosting Vegetables and Spices: Onions and garlic aren’t merely flavor enhancers; they are powerhouse ingredients loaded with antioxidants and various beneficial compounds known to support immune health and reduce inflammation. The carefully selected Mexican spices like cumin and paprika further contribute to a healthy metabolism and provide their own unique array of health-promoting properties.
• Low in Calories and Fat: By consciously choosing Greek yogurt over traditional heavy cream, this soup significantly lowers its overall calorie and saturated fat content. This clever substitution allows for a truly indulgent-tasting experience that remains light and aligns perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle.
• Weight Watchers Friendly: As a signature 1-point recipe, this soup perfectly embodies the core principles of the Weight Watchers program. It demonstrates that you can enjoy delicious, satisfying, and hearty meals that are integral to achieving and maintaining your weight loss and wellness goals.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Corn Soup

This versatile Creamy Mexican Corn Soup is a star on its own, but it also shines when paired with complementary dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a comforting starter, or the main attraction, here are some ideas to complete your meal and enhance the experience:

• With Crusty Bread or Cornbread: A warm, crusty baguette, a slice of fluffy cornbread, or even some homemade tortilla chips are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of this savory soup. The textures provide a delightful contrast.
• As a Side to Mexican Favorites: This soup makes an excellent companion to a variety of Mexican main dishes. Serve it alongside your favorite tacos, cheesy enchiladas, crispy quesadillas, or a simple grilled chicken breast for a well-rounded and authentic Tex-Mex feast.
• Alongside a Fresh Salad: For a balanced and lighter meal, pair a bowl of this creamy soup with a crisp, vibrant green salad. A simple salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette will provide a refreshing counterpoint to the soup’s rich flavors.
• Elevate with Creative Garnishes: Beyond the basic corn, yogurt, and paprika, get creative with your garnishes! Consider a sprinkle of crunchy crumbled tortilla chips for added texture, finely diced avocado for healthy fats and a creamy element, a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick, or a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving for an extra burst of vibrant flavor.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Creamy Mexican Corn Soup is destined to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. Its harmonious blend of ease, significant health benefits, and utterly irresistible flavor ensures it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again, bringing comfort and joy with every warm bowl.