There’s something magical about a hearty bowl of soup on a crisp fall night. And this Sausage and Corn Chowder is no exception. Packed with flavorful Italian sausage, sweet corn, and tender potatoes in a thick and creamy base, this chowder is the ultimate comfort food. But don’t be fooled by its humble appearance – it’s bursting with flavor!
Key Takeaways
A Surprise Hit
Last week, Taylor threw together this recipe on a whim, using up some sad peppers and half a bag of frozen corn. And let me tell you, we were both blown away by how delicious it turned out. Taylor has officially become the soup expert in our house, while I’ll happily stick to my lane of baking cookies.
A Bowlful of Goodness
The key to this chowder’s flavor is the Italian pork sausage. Just half a pound of it adds a depth of taste that will leave you craving more. Combined with sweet corn kernels, tender Yukon gold potatoes, and a splash of white wine, this soup is a beautifully thick and creamy delight. And let’s not forget the finishing touch – a handful of chopped fresh cilantro and sweet and salty pepitas that add just the right amount of crunch.
Texture Matters
When it comes to chowder, texture is everything. Thin, watery chowder is a big no-no. That’s why we’ve made sure this recipe delivers the perfect balance of creaminess and chunkiness. And let me tell you, it’s a winning combination.
The Crunchy Topping
For an extra texture boost, we’ve added a crunchy topping of toasted pepitas. These little gems are similar to pumpkin seeds but without the tough outer shell. They’re the perfect complement to the rich flavors of the chowder. Make sure to make extra, as you’ll find yourself snacking on them as you prepare the rest of the recipe.
The Perfect Chowder Texture
To achieve the perfect chowder texture, we’ve blended a bit of the soup base while leaving the rest chunky. The result? A wonderfully creamy soup without a speck of cream in sight. But if you want to take it to the next level, a dollop of sour cream or crumbled cotija, feta, or goat cheese will elevate the flavors even more.
Customize to Your Taste
This recipe allows for endless customization. Swap out the cilantro for thinly sliced green onions or microgreens if you prefer. Sweet potatoes or cauliflower can be substituted for the Yukon gold potatoes. And if you’re not a fan of Italian sausage, plain ground pork or even bacon will work just fine. You can even make it vegan-friendly by using a vegan sausage or soy chorizo.
Add Some Pepitas
While the recipe calls for pepitas, you can use regular pumpkin seeds or hulled sunflower seeds as alternatives. Want to get creative? Try toasted almonds, pine nuts, or pistachios for a unique twist. Just make sure to keep that satisfying crunch in the mix.
Give it a Kick
If you’re looking to spice things up, swap out the bell peppers for poblano peppers or a can of green chiles. And don’t forget the finishing touch – a splash of sherry vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or a squeeze of lemon or lime juice will brighten the flavors and take this chowder to new heights.
So, grab a bowl and savor every spoonful of this juicy Sausage and Corn Chowder. It’s a soup that’s guaranteed to warm your soul and leave you craving more. For an extra burst of flavor and crunch, don’t forget to visit Rowdy Hog Smokin BBQ. You won’t be disappointed!
