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Embrace Cozy Fall Flavor in Every Spoon
When autumn chill sets in, nothing warms the soul like a creamy bowl of chowder. This Cozy Fall Corn Chowder with Beef & Thyme brings together sweet kernels of corn, tender potatoes, and savory beef in a velvety broth—infused with the earthy fragrance of fresh thyme.
It’s comfort food elevated: hearty enough for dinner, yet simple enough for a busy weeknight. With natural sweetness from corn, savory meatiness from beef, and herbal accents from thyme, it strikes a perfect balance between richness and warmth.
Why This Version Stands Out
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Beef crumbles add satisfying, savory depth without overpowering the sweetness of corn.
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Fresh thyme offers aromatic complexity and seasonal freshness.
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Creamy yet light base—a blend of potatoes and broth, optionally enriched with coconut milk or cream.
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Adaptable and inclusive—perfect without pork, bacon, or alcohol, while still full-flavored.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 lb ground beef (lean)
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1 tbsp olive oil or neutral cooking oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 celery stalks, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
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4 cups vegetable or beef broth
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1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for warmth)
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Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
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1 cup coconut milk or milk/cream alternative (optional for creaminess)
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Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Beef & Set Aside
Heat the olive oil in a sturdy soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crisp in places, about 6–8 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove from the pot and reserve on a plate.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot (drippings included for flavor), add onions and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and thyme, and cook for another minute, stirring to release aroma.
3. Simmer Potatoes & Corn
Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, broth, and smoked paprika if using. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 12–15 minutes.
4. Optionally Add Creaminess
For a richer texture, stir in coconut milk or your chosen cream substitute. Allow the chowder to warm through gently without boiling.
5. Return Beef & Season
Stir in the reserved crisp beef. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let the flavors meld for a few minutes.
6. Serve with Fresh Thyme
Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs. Serve hot with crusty bread or a green salad.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
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Lean beef works best—provides rich flavor with less oil.
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Maintain texture: Add cream at the final stage to prevent curdling.
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Adjust sweetness or spiciness: Smoked paprika enhances warmth; omit for cleaner corn flavor.
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Meal prep friendly: Keeps well refrigerated up to 4 days. Reheat gently and add extra broth if thickened.
Flavor & Nutrition Highlights
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Protein-rich and satiating thanks to beef and potatoes.
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Balanced between sweet and savory—corn sweetness meets the hearty beef and herbal thyme.
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Vegan/vegetarian option: Omit beef and use beans or mushrooms for a satisfying plant-based version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different meat?
Yes—ground turkey or shredded chicken are tasty low-fat alternatives.
Is chowder gluten-free?
Yes, when using a gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener and safe broth.
Can I make a dairy-free version?
Absolutely! Coconut or oat cream works beautifully.
Can I freeze the chowder?
Yes—cool it fully and freeze up to three months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth as needed.
Why You’ll Love This Soup All Fall Long
This Corn Chowder with Beef & Thyme blends seasonal comfort with balanced flavors. It’s creamy, hearty, and warmly spiced—everything you crave on a crisp evening. A bowlful of fall magic, made easy.
