Panera Corn Chowder Recipe: Creamy and Comforting Soup

Panera Corn Chowder Recipe: If you’re a fan of comfort food, Panera’s Corn Chowder is a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds. Known for its rich, creamy texture and sweet corn flavor, this soup is a perfect choice for any season. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a chilly day or just want to indulge in something warm and satisfying, Panera’s Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food that never disappoints.

Making Panera Corn Chowder at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this popular restaurant dish in your own kitchen. The creamy base, combined with tender corn kernels, creates a dish that’s both savory and subtly sweet. Perfectly seasoned and garnished with a dash of fresh herbs, this soup is an instant favorite for family dinners or cozy nights in.

This homemade version of Panera Corn Chowder allows you to enjoy the same rich, velvety taste that you love from the restaurant, but with the added bonus of knowing exactly what goes into it. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to make this flavorful soup just like Panera. Get ready to enjoy the warm, comforting taste of corn chowder in the comfort of your own home.

What is Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

The Panera Corn Chowder Recipe is a hearty, creamy soup filled with sweet corn, potatoes, and a rich broth. It’s a perfect dish for cooler days, offering a comforting blend of flavors that warm you from the inside out. If you’re craving a bowl of this delicious chowder from Panera Bread, you can recreate it at home with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Here’s how you can make your own version of this beloved corn chowder.

The soup starts with a base of sautéed onions and butter, which bring out a deep, savory flavor. Corn, whether fresh or frozen, is the star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a satisfying texture. The addition of potatoes makes the chowder hearty, while the combination of chicken broth and cream creates a rich, velvety texture. This recipe is not only simple to make but can also be customized to suit your taste, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.

By following a few easy steps, you can enjoy the same comforting taste of Panera’s Corn Chowder right at home. Whether served as a light meal or paired with a sandwich for a complete lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

There’s so much to love about this Panera Corn Chowder Recipe, and it goes beyond just its incredible taste. Here are a few reasons why this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

1. Creamy and Comforting: The combination of heavy cream and a velvety broth makes this chowder incredibly smooth and rich, providing the ultimate comfort food experience. Each spoonful is warm, creamy, and satisfying—perfect for those cozy nights in.
2. Sweet and Savory Flavor: The balance of sweetness from the corn and savory undertones from the potatoes and seasonings creates a well-rounded flavor profile that will have you coming back for more. The soup is both rich and refreshing at the same time, making it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any season.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe doesn’t require hours of cooking or fancy techniques. You can prepare this chowder in under an hour, and the ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge.
4. Customizable: Whether you prefer more corn, a bit of spice, or extra creamy texture, this recipe is easy to adapt. You can add ingredients like bacon, herbs, or even a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste. It’s also perfect for anyone who likes to experiment in the kitchen!
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This chowder stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s great for meal prepping and can be easily reheated for a quick, filling meal.

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’ll please everyone at the table, this Panera Corn Chowder Recipe is definitely worth trying!

Main Highlights of the Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

1. Rich, Creamy Texture: The soup’s base, made with heavy cream and broth, delivers a velvety, comforting consistency that coats your taste buds in every spoonful.
2. Sweet and Savory Flavor: The combination of sweet corn and savory potatoes creates a balanced flavor profile that’s both satisfying and comforting.
3. Quick and Easy to Make: With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe comes together in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat.
4. Versatile: This chowder is highly customizable. You can add bacon, herbs, or extra seasonings to personalize the flavor to your liking.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge for a few days and even tastes better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers.
6. Kid-Friendly: The smooth, creamy texture and mild flavor make this soup a hit with kids, making it a family-friendly dish for everyone to enjoy.
7. Comforting and Satisfying: Whether you’re serving it as a stand-alone dish or pairing it with sandwiches, this corn chowder is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly weather or whenever you need a warm, cozy meal.

Cost-Saving Benefits of the Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

Customizable to Fit Your Budget: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your budget by using pantry staples or opting for more cost-effective alternatives. For example, you can swap heavy cream for milk or use store-brand ingredients to further lower the cost.

Affordable Ingredients: The ingredients for Panera Corn Chowder, such as corn, potatoes, onions, and cream, are budget-friendly and widely available. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen corn, these ingredients won’t break the bank, especially when bought in bulk.

Makes Multiple Servings: This recipe yields several servings, making it perfect for meal prepping. You can enjoy multiple meals for the price of one, saving money on takeout or dining out.

No Need for Expensive Store-Bought Soups: By making this chowder at home, you avoid the high cost of pre-packaged, store-bought soups or restaurant versions, which can be pricey for something so simple and easy to make.

Leftovers for Later: Panera Corn Chowder stores well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for days. This reduces food waste and maximizes your investment in the ingredients, providing several meals from a single batch.

Flavorful Toppings and Customizations for Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

Flavorful Toppings for Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

1. Crispy Bacon: Add a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory crunch that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the chowder. The salty bacon pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn.
2. Cheddar Cheese: A generous topping of shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, melty layer of flavor. It’s a classic pairing that enhances the overall richness of the soup.
3. Fresh Herbs: A garnish of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can add a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic flavor. These herbs brighten the dish and balance the richness of the cream.
4. Spices and Seasonings: For a bit of heat, try sprinkling a pinch of cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes on top. These spices can elevate the chowder with a subtle kick of flavor.
5. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For an extra creamy, tangy contrast, swirl in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. It gives the chowder an added layer of richness and a slight tang that enhances the flavors.

Customizations for Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

1. Cornbread Croutons: Instead of traditional croutons, try crumbled cornbread for a fun, textural twist. The slightly sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory chowder and adds a unique, comforting crunch.
2. Lemon Zest: A touch of fresh lemon zest can provide a refreshing burst of citrus, cutting through the creaminess and brightening up the flavors. It’s especially great if you’re looking for a slightly lighter variation of the dish.
3. Vegetarian Twist: For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to make the chowder heartier and more colorful.
4. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy bold flavors, try adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup an extra spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.
5. Roasted Garlic: For an extra depth of flavor, add roasted garlic to the chowder. The sweet, mellow taste of roasted garlic complements the creamy base and enhances the overall flavor.

These toppings and customizations allow you to adjust your Panera Corn Chowder to your taste, creating a unique version every time you make it.

How to Make Panera Corn Chowder

Quick Overview

Panera Corn Chowder is a creamy, comforting soup made with a blend of sweet corn, tender potatoes, and a rich broth, perfect for any season. With its velvety texture and satisfying flavor, this dish is a favorite for those who crave hearty comfort food. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients like corn, potatoes, onions, and heavy cream, allowing you to recreate this delicious soup at home in under an hour.

The recipe is customizable, offering endless variations with toppings like crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh herbs, or a spicy kick with cayenne pepper. You can also make it your own by adding a twist with cornbread croutons, roasted garlic, or a tangy touch of sour cream. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this Panera Corn Chowder is an ideal choice for a cozy, filling meal that everyone will enjoy.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient List for Panera Corn Chowder

Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

4 cups of fresh or frozen corn kernels

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1 large onion, chopped

2 tbsp of butter

2 tbsp of all-purpose flour

Pepper to taste

1 ½ cups of heavy cream

Salt to taste

2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

Step-by-Step Instructions for Panera Corn Chowder Recipe

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion.
3. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, measure out the required amount.

Cook the Onions:

1. In a large pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.

Make the Roux:

1. Stir in 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour to the onions and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will help thicken the chowder and give it a creamy texture.

Add the Potatoes and Corn:

1. Add the diced potatoes and corn kernels to the pot. Stir to combine with the onion and flour mixture.

Add the Broth:

1. Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Simmer the Soup:

1. Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.

Stir in the Cream:

1. Once the potatoes are soft, add 1 ½ cups of heavy cream to the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.

Season to Taste:

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preferences.

Serve:

1. Ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Panera Corn Chowder!

What to Serve With Panera Corn Chowder

1. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread, like a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for dipping into the creamy chowder. The texture of the bread complements the soup’s richness.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing with any soup, especially corn chowder, a grilled cheese sandwich adds a crispy, cheesy contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Salad: A fresh, light salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette, provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the chowder.
4. Roasted Vegetables: For a healthy side, serve roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini. The caramelized flavors of the roasted veggies complement the chowder nicely.
5. Cornbread: Enhance the corn theme by serving a slice of warm, buttery cornbread alongside the soup. It’s the perfect comfort food combo!
6. Pickles or Relish: The acidity from pickles or a tangy relish cuts through the creaminess of the soup and adds a refreshing bite.
7. Apple Slices: For a light, sweet side, apple slices or a crisp apple salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory chowder.

These sides complement the creamy texture and flavor of Panera Corn Chowder, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting Panera Corn Chowder

Don’t Skip the Roux: The flour and butter mixture (roux) is key to achieving that creamy consistency. Be sure to cook the roux properly before adding the liquids to avoid any raw flour taste.

Use Fresh Corn for Extra Flavor: If you can get fresh corn, it will add a natural sweetness and flavor that frozen corn can’t quite match. Grilled or roasted corn can add even more depth to the soup.

Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Be sure to cook the potatoes just until they are tender. Overcooking them can cause them to fall apart and make the soup too starchy. Keep an eye on them during the simmering phase.

Adjust the Consistency: If the chowder is too thick, add extra broth or a little milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken the soup.

Balance the Seasoning: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne for some heat. A dash of paprika or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.

Add a Touch of Sweetness: If you like your corn chowder on the sweeter side, consider adding a small amount of honey or a splash of cream to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn.

Experiment with Herbs: While parsley and chives are traditional garnishes, fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of basil can add a fragrant herbal note to the chowder.

Ingredient Substitutions for Panera Corn Chowder

Heavy Cream:

1. Substitute with half-and-half or whole milk if you want a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk.

Butter:

1. Swap with olive oil or vegetable oil for a healthier alternative. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter or margarine.

Chicken Broth:

1. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a more intense flavor, beef broth or bone broth can be used as alternatives.

Potatoes:

1. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower in place of potatoes for a lighter chowder with a similar texture.

Corn:

1. Fresh corn is ideal, but you can substitute with frozen corn if fresh isn’t available. Canned corn works too, but make sure to drain and rinse it before use.

Flour:

1. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch or rice flour to thicken the soup instead of all-purpose flour. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend.

Onion:

1. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can substitute with shallots or leeks for a milder flavor. Alternatively, garlic can provide a different kind of aromatic base.

Sour Cream (for garnish):

1. For a tangy kick, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or even vegan sour cream for a dairy-free option.

Bacon (for garnish):

1. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using smoked tempeh or vegan bacon to get a similar smoky flavor. You can also use crispy chickpeas for a crunchy texture.

Cheddar Cheese:

• If you want to avoid dairy, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Vegan cheese is also a great option for a dairy-free chowder.

These ingredient substitutions can help you adjust the Panera Corn Chowder recipe to fit dietary preferences or ingredient availability while maintaining a delicious flavor.

Timing Adjustments for Panera Corn Chowder

Cooking the Potatoes:

1. Regular Potatoes: Typically, potatoes will take about 15-20 minutes to cook through when diced. Keep an eye on them to make sure they are tender but not overcooked and falling apart.
2. Cauliflower Substitute: If using cauliflower instead of potatoes, it will cook faster—about 10-12 minutes. Check for tenderness but avoid overcooking it into mush.

Simmering Time:

1. If you’re in a rush, you can reduce the simmering time to 10-15 minutes for the corn and potatoes to cook. However, the soup will develop better flavor with a longer simmering time of 20-25 minutes to allow all the ingredients to meld together.

Heavy Cream Addition:

1. After adding the heavy cream, let the soup simmer for 5 more minutes to incorporate the creaminess into the chowder. If you’re using milk or a lighter dairy option, it may need a slightly shorter simmering time, as it could curdle more easily.

Roux Cooking Time:

1. When making the roux (butter and flour mixture), ensure you cook it for 1-2 minutes before adding the liquids. This helps eliminate any raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, lump-free base for the soup.

Garnishing and Serving:

1. For optimal texture, garnish just before serving. If you’re adding crispy toppings like bacon or croutons, sprinkle them on right before serving to retain their crunch and texture.

Meal Prep or Leftover Time:

1. If you’re making the soup ahead of time, allow it to cool, then store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so over low heat and allow it to warm up slowly for about 10 minutes. You may need to add a bit of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

These timing adjustments ensure that you can customize the cooking process based on your available time while still achieving a rich, creamy corn chowder.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Panera Corn Chowder

Overcooking the Potatoes:

1. Potatoes can break down if cooked for too long, turning the chowder too starchy. To avoid this, cook them until just tender, around 15-20 minutes, and check them with a fork to ensure they’re firm but soft.

Not Cooking the Roux Long Enough:

1. The flour and butter mixture (roux) should be cooked for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Skipping this step can result in a floury texture in your chowder.

Adding Cream Too Early:

1. Adding cream too early during the cooking process can cause it to curdle. Wait until the potatoes are tender and the soup has simmered before stirring in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to thicken and fully incorporate.

Using Too Much Flour:

1. Adding too much flour to the roux can make the chowder too thick and pasty. Stick to the recommended 2 tablespoons of flour to keep the texture smooth and creamy.

Not Adjusting Seasoning:

1. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of the chowder. Always taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings (like cayenne or paprika) to your preference. Don’t wait until it’s too late to adjust!

Not Stirring Enough:

1. When simmering the soup, stir occasionally to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom or burning. This is especially important when using cream, as it can scorch easily without stirring.

v/Using Frozen Corn Without Thawing:

1. If using frozen corn, make sure it’s thawed before adding it to the soup. Otherwise, it can cool down the soup and alter the cooking time.

Not Allowing the Soup to Rest:

1. Let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together. This also helps the chowder to thicken slightly, making it even more satisfying.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to make a perfect Panera Corn Chowder that’s creamy, flavorful, and a true crowd-pleaser!

Storing and Reheating Tips for Panera Corn Chowder

Storing Panera Corn Chowder

1. Cool Before Storing:
   • Allow the chowder to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation inside the storage container, which could affect the texture and quality of the soup.
2. Airtight Container:
   • Store the chowder in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For best results, refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
3. Refrigeration:
   • You can store the chowder in the fridge for 3-4 days. Be sure to label the container with the date so you know when it’s best to consume it.
4. Freezing:
   • If you want to store the chowder for longer, you can freeze it. After cooling, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
   • Note: Cream-based soups like this can sometimes separate when frozen. Stir the soup well after reheating to restore its creamy texture.

Reheating Panera Corn Chowder

1. Reheat on the Stovetop:
   • The best way to reheat chowder is on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom. It should take about 10-15 minutes to heat thoroughly.
2. Add Liquid if Needed:
   • When reheating, the soup might thicken in the fridge. Add a little extra broth, milk, or cream to adjust the consistency if it has become too thick.
3. Reheating from the Freezer:
   • If reheating from the freezer, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight for the best results. Once thawed, reheat it slowly on the stovetop, adding liquid as needed.
   • You can also microwave the soup in a microwave-safe container, stirring every 1-2 minutes until hot. Be cautious, as the microwave can cause uneven heating, so always stir thoroughly.
4. Avoid Boiling:
   • When reheating, avoid boiling the soup, especially if it contains cream. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle and the soup to lose its smooth texture. Reheat gently over low to medium heat instead.

Following these storing and reheating tips will help you preserve the flavor and texture of your Panera Corn Chowder, ensuring it tastes just as good the second time around!

Health Benefits of Panera Corn Chowder

Panera Corn Chowder Recipe From DishBloom!

Panera Corn Chowder

Panera Corn Chowder is a creamy, comforting soup made with sweet corn, potatoes, and a rich broth. This homemade version recreates the delicious, velvety texture and flavors of Panera Bread’s popular dish. Perfect for chilly days, it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, with a customizable base that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 44

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Stirring Spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives optional, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes and chop the onion. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob; otherwise, use frozen corn.
• Cook the Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.
• Make the Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
• Add Corn and Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and corn to the pot. Stir to combine with the onion and flour mixture.
• Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stir, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
• Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot.
  

Notes

• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
• For added flavor, top with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
• This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and tastes even better the next day.
• You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or milk if the soup becomes too thick when reheated.
• 

Keyword Corn chowder, creamy soup, easy chowder, Panera recipe

Share Your Twist!

1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
2. Bacon Lovers: Top with crispy bacon bits or smoked sausage.
3. Cheese: Stir in cheddar or Gruyère for extra richness.
4. Vegetarian: Add carrots, zucchini, or leeks for a veggie boost.
5. Herb Twist: Use rosemary, thyme, or a pinch of nutmeg.
6. Sweet & Savory: Add sweet potato or a drizzle of maple syrup.
7. Dairy-Free: Substitute with coconut milk or almond milk.
8. Cornbread Croutons: Top with crumble cornbread for texture.

Make this chowder your own with your favorite twist!

FAQs: Panera Corn Chowder Recipe