Easy and Yummy Corn Chowder

Vickiva's Note:

I found the original recipe in Family Circle magazine. They say that it freezes well. This recipe is good and my kids love it too. It makes a lot, so plan on freezing some!

• Total Time: 43 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 28 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 4 (15 ounce) cans corn , drained
• 4 slices bacon , cut into 1/2 in. pieces (optional)
• 1 medium onion , finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves , minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth or 2 (15 ounce) cans broth
• 2 medium red potatoes , cut into 1/4 in. pieces
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream or 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• shredded cheddar cheese , for topping

Directions:

1. Chop onion, set aside. In a food processor, puree 2 cans of corn so that it is a little chunky. Set aside.
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook bacon for about 6 minutes or until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper-towel lined plate.
3. Add onion to pot and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until golden brown. If you did not make the bacon, drizzle the pan with olive oil before adding the onion. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
4. Whisk in chicken broth. Add potatoes, thyme, milk (regular milk at this time), and pureed corn. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Using a potato masher, press down on the potatoes 4 to 5 times. Stir in cooked bacon.
5. In a food processor, pulse the remaining 2 cans of corn for about 3-5 seconds, depending on the consistency that you like. Add the rest of the corn and heavy cream and cook an additional 5 minutes. Stir in salt and pepper. Ladle chowder into bowls. Top each serving with a little cheddar cheese.