Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder.

This Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder is creamy, cheesy, smoky, and loaded with flavor. Sweet corn, tender potatoes, and sharp cheddar come together with a smoky kick of chipotle chilies. Topped with crispy bacon and fresh green onions, this chowder is the perfect cozy dinner that can be made in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chowder has the perfect balance of sweet and smoky. The corn brings natural sweetness, while the chipotle adds a gentle heat and smoky depth. Potatoes make it hearty, cheddar adds richness, and bacon gives it that irresistible savory crunch. It’s versatile too—you can make it in your Instant Pot for quick cooking, let it simmer in a slow cooker, or prepare it the classic way on the stove.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 strips thick-cut bacon, diced

• 1/2 sweet onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated

• 4 cups yellow corn kernels (about 4 ears)

• 1 russet potato, peeled and cubed

• 2 chipotle chilies in adobo, chopped

• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 2 cups whole milk

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Chopped green onions, for serving

Directions

Instant Pot Method

1. Set Instant Pot to sauté. Cook bacon until crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in pot.

2. Add onion, cook 5 minutes until fragrant. Stir in garlic, corn, potatoes, chipotle chilies, salt, and pepper. Add broth. Cover and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

3. Quick or natural release steam. Blend half the chowder until chunky smooth (not fully pureed), then return to pot.

4. Set to sauté, stir in milk and cheddar, cooking until melted and slightly thickened. Stir in cilantro. Serve topped with bacon and green onions.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Add onion, garlic, corn, potatoes, chipotle chilies, salt, pepper, and broth to slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 4–6 hours or high 2–3 hours.

2. Blend half the chowder until chunky smooth, then return to slow cooker. Stir in milk and cheese, cooking on high until melted and creamy.

3. Crisp bacon separately on the stovetop. Serve chowder topped with bacon and green onions.

Stovetop Method

1. In a large soup pot, cook bacon until crisp. Transfer to paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of grease in pot.

2. Add onion, cook 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, corn, potatoes, chipotle chilies, salt, and pepper. Add broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer and cook 10–15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

3. Blend half the chowder until chunky smooth, then return to pot. Stir in milk, cheese, and cilantro. Cook until creamy. Serve topped with bacon and green onions.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Calories: approximately 701 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit bacon, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

• Spicy: Add an extra chipotle chili or a dash of cayenne.

• Extra creamy: Stir in heavy cream instead of milk.

• Cheese swap: Try pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.

• Summer fresh: Use grilled corn kernels for extra smoky sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk if needed.

• Freeze: Not recommended, as dairy-based chowders may separate after freezing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly and saves prep time.

Do I need to peel the potato?

Yes, peeling helps create a smoother texture in the chowder.

Can I make this without bacon?

Absolutely—it will still be flavorful, but bacon adds a smoky, savory depth.

How spicy is this chowder?

It has a mild to medium heat from chipotle; reduce to one chili for a milder version.

Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?

Yes, for a richer texture.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes, the chowder reheats well and actually deepens in flavor overnight.

What can I serve with this chowder?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad are great options.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Can I make it vegetarian without losing flavor?

Yes, replace bacon with smoked paprika and use vegetable broth.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just ensure your pot or Instant Pot has enough capacity.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder is creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky-sweet flavors. Whether you make it in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop, it’s a cozy, hearty dish that comes together easily and tastes like comfort in a bowl. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a warming weekend dinner.

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