Corn Chowder Recipe Vegetarian: Easy, Creamy, and Delicious

Updated On: October 4, 2025

Corn chowder is the perfect comfort food, especially for those seeking a hearty vegetarian dish that bursts with natural sweetness and creamy texture. This vegetarian corn chowder recipe combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and a rich yet dairy-free base to create a satisfying soup that’s ideal for any season.

Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or looking for a light but filling lunch, this chowder offers a wonderful balance of flavors and nutrients without relying on meat or heavy creams.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. Using fresh or frozen corn, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs, it delivers a bowl full of warmth and nourishment.

Plus, it’s easy to customize with ingredients you love or have on hand. Dive into this delightful vegetarian corn chowder and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian corn chowder is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful without the need for meat or heavy dairy products.

The natural sweetness of corn combined with the earthiness of potatoes and the freshness of herbs creates a harmonious taste that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Second, it’s simple to make with everyday pantry staples and doesn’t require hours of preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find the step-by-step instructions easy to follow.

Lastly, it’s a healthy option packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 5-6 ears if fresh)
  • 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (optional for extra color and sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamier texture)
  • Ladle

Instructions

  1. Prepare your vegetables. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob.
  2. Sauté the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add potatoes and spices. Toss in the diced potatoes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the potatoes with the seasonings and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth. Add the vegetable broth, ensuring the potatoes are covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  5. Add corn and optional bell pepper. Stir in the corn kernels and diced red bell pepper, if using. Simmer for another 8-10 minutes until the corn is cooked through and tender.
  6. Blend for creaminess (optional). For a creamier chowder, use an immersion blender to puree about half of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half the chowder to a blender, puree, and return it to the pot. This step is optional but adds a lovely texture.
  7. Stir in plant-based milk and nutritional yeast. Pour in the almond milk and sprinkle the nutritional yeast, stirring well to combine. Heat the soup gently for 3-4 minutes without boiling to warm through.
  8. Adjust seasoning and serve. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to your corn chowder. You can also swap almond milk for coconut milk for a subtle tropical twist.”

  • Make it vegan creamy: Instead of almond milk, use full-fat coconut milk for a richer texture.
  • Add more veggies: Include diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
  • Use canned corn: Drain and rinse canned corn if fresh or frozen is not available.
  • Top it off: Garnish with crispy baked tortilla strips, roasted pumpkin seeds, or a dollop of vegan sour cream.
  • Make it a slow cooker meal: Combine all ingredients (except almond milk) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in almond milk before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 210
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 38g
Dietary Fiber 6g
Fat 4g
Sodium 580mg
Vitamin C 20% DV
Iron 10% DV

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian corn chowder pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Try serving it alongside a warm, homemade loaf like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

For a lighter option, complement your chowder with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.

For an added protein boost, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top or serve with a side of roasted chickpeas. And if you’re in the mood for dessert, the moist and flavorful Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious makes a perfect finale to your comforting meal.

Conclusion

This vegetarian corn chowder recipe is a versatile, nourishing, and utterly delicious way to enjoy a plant-based meal. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices, ensuring it never gets boring.

Beyond just taste, this chowder offers a satisfying way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, supporting a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or a seasoned pro, this corn chowder will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

For more delicious vegetarian ideas, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or explore comforting options like Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

📖 Recipe Card: Corn Chowder Recipe Vegetarian

Description: A creamy and hearty vegetarian corn chowder packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk or plant-based milk
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
  3. Add diced potatoes, corn, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
  5. Stir in milk and thyme; cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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