There’s something magical about the simple joy of a simmering pot on a chilly evening. As I stood by the stove, the dazzling colors of vibrant sun-dried tomatoes and golden corn danced in front of me, revealing their secret to creating a heartwarming bowl of Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder. This cozy dish isn’t just delicious; it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Packed with wholesome ingredients and a creamy texture, it’s a comforting vegetarian option that can easily be adapted for vegan diets. Can you imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful chowder? Let’s dive into all its comforting goodness together!

Why is this chowder a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: Each spoonful of this chowder brings cozy vibes, perfect for chilly evenings spent at home.
Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can whip up a hearty meal that saves you time on busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and sweet corn delivers a vibrant taste that excites your palate.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re vegan or need a gluten-free dish, this chowder adapts beautifully to fit your needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this chowder at gatherings, and watch as everyone digs in, leaving empty bowls behind—talk about satisfaction! For easy meal pairings, consider a side of Garlic Tomato Chicken or a refreshing Roasted Tomato Garlic salad.

Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder Ingredients

• Gather all the essential ingredients for a delightful Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder that will warm your heart.

For the Chowder Base

Olive oil – Adds rich flavor essential for sautéing.
Sweet onion – Diced for natural sweetness in the base.
Garlic – Minced for depth of flavor.
Salt – Enhances overall flavors.
Freshly ground pepper – Adds warmth.
Smoked paprika – Introduces a subtle smoky flavor.
Sun dried tomatoes – Contributes tanginess and visual appeal.
Corn kernels – Fresh-cut for sweetness and texture.
Yukon gold potatoes – Helps thicken and add creaminess to the chowder.
Chicken or vegetable stock – Foundation of the broth; vegetarian option available using vegetable stock.
Half and half – Ensures a creamy consistency; can be replaced with coconut milk for a vegan option.

For Thickening

Flour – Thickens the chowder; use a gluten-free alternative if needed.

For the Croutons

Chives – Adds fresh flavor; can be substituted with green onions.
Goat cheese – Chilled for slicing into croutons; can swap for plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
Seasoned bread crumbs – Adds texture to the croutons.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced sweet onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, seasoning with salt, freshly ground pepper, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and softened. Stir in ½ cup of chopped sun dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant and well combined.

Step 2: Prepare Base
Next, incorporate 2 cups of fresh corn kernels and 2 chopped Yukon gold potatoes into the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Make Croutons
While the chowder simmers, prepare the goat cheese croutons. Slice 4 ounces of chilled goat cheese into rounds. Dredge each piece through flour, then dip in a beaten egg, and coat with seasoned bread crumbs. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and fry the croutons for about 1 minute on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Thicken Chowder
In a shaker bottle, combine 2 tablespoons of flour and 1 cup of half and half, shaking until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the chowder, stirring continuously. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken, ensuring a creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning, then stir in most of the chopped chives, saving some for garnish.

Step 5: Serve
Finally, ladle the warm Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder into bowls. Top each serving with extra corn, sun dried tomatoes, and a few crispy goat cheese croutons for texture. Garnish with reserved chives for a fresh finish, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delightful chowder on a cozy evening!

Make Ahead Options

These Cozy Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop all your vegetables—like the sweet onion, garlic, and Yukon gold potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent browning. The chowder can also be made entirely ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, reheat it gently on the stove, adding extra broth as needed. When ready to serve, simply prepare the goat cheese croutons fresh while the chowder warms, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as the first!

Storage Tips for Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder

Fridge: Store your chowder in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to retain its creamy texture.

Freezer: This chowder freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half to restore creaminess.

Airtight Storage: Always ensure containers are tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn and maintain the delightful flavors of your Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder.

What to Serve with Cozy Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder

Enhance your cozy chowder experience with delightful pairings that complement its rich flavors and creamy texture.

Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crusty texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth chowder, soaking up every comforting bite.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette brings freshness, balancing the chowder’s richness with a zesty touch.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies add depth and extra layers of flavor. Their caramelized sweetness perfectly harmonizes with the chowder.
Cheesy Herbed Biscuits: Warm, flaky biscuits with herbs provide a delightful side that pairs beautifully in flavor and texture, soaking up the chowder.
Crispy Potato Wedges: The crunch and heartiness of seasoned potato wedges make for a satisfying combination, giving a cozy feel to the entire meal.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink option, its bright notes cleanse the palate and enhance the overall meal experience.
Dessert of Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note! The rich, velvety texture of chocolate mousse is a luxurious finish after the hearty chowder.

These pairings build a wonderful meal experience, perfect for nights filled with warmth and connection.

Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder Variations

Customize your chowder experience with these delightful twists and substitutions that will elevate your dish to new heights.

Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and coconut milk instead of half and half for a creamy texture without dairy.
Imagine cozying up with a bowlful that’s both comforting and vegan-friendly, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper during the sautéing step for a bit of heat.
This small switch can transform your chowder into a fiery delight, perfect for those who love a little adventure in their meals.
Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
A delightful bouquet of herbs not only brightens up the chowder but also releases an aromatic experience that’ll tantalize your senses.
Nutty Crunch: Top your chowder with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added texture contrast.
The nuts bring a lovely crunch that complements the creamy elements beautifully, making every spoonful an exciting one.
Zucchini or Bell Peppers: Incorporate chopped zucchini or bell peppers during the simmering stage for extra nourishment.
These colorful vegetables can enhance the chowder’s flavor, providing a slightly sweet and wholesome addition that’ll make you smile.
Sweet Potato: Swap out Yukon gold potatoes for sweet potatoes to give your chowder a hint of sweetness.
The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tanginess of the sun-dried tomatoes, creating a rich symphony of flavors.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for an extra creamy richness.
This variation elevates your chowder to a whole new level of indulgence, making it feel like a special treat to share with loved ones.

For even more inspiration, don’t forget to check out recipes for Sweet Corn Risotto or Cod in White Wine that pair beautifully with this comforting chowder. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder

Prep Ahead: Slice and dice your vegetables the night before to save time; this makes the cooking process quicker and less stressful.
Check Consistency: If your chowder turns out too thick, simply add a splash of stock or half and half for a soupy, cozy texture.
Season Carefully: Taste the chowder as it cooks. The flavors intensify, so adjust seasoning gradually and avoid overpowering it with salt.
Warm Up Half and Half: To prevent curdling, let the half and half come to room temperature before adding it to the chowder.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese for the croutons and coconut milk for a creamy finish without the dairy.

Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the chowder?
Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels are ideal for this chowder as they provide natural sweetness and texture. If fresh corn is not available, you can use frozen corn; just be sure to thaw it before adding it to the chowder for the best results.

How do I store leftover chowder?
Store your chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Sun Dried Tomato Corn Chowder?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder for up to 3 months! For the best results, portion the chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or half and half to restore its creaminess.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken or vegetable stock gradually and stir until you reach your preferred consistency. Remember to warm the added stock before mixing it in to preserve the heat of your chowder.

Is this chowder suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this chowder for lactose intolerance by replacing half and half with coconut milk and using a dairy-free cheese for the croutons. This way, you can savor all the flavors without any discomfort.