• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Free Bonus
  • About
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter

Boulder Locavore®

Easy Flavorful Recipes for Everyday

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Free Bonus
  • About
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • Recipes
    • Free Bonus
    • About
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » Instant Pot » Potato Corn Chowder – Instant Pot recipe

    LAST UPDATED: October 16, 2020 • FIRST PUBLISHED: April 12, 2020 By Toni Dash 30 Comments

    Potato Corn Chowder – Instant Pot recipe

    Jump to Recipe

    This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Potato Corn Chowder title image

    Potato Corn Chowder is a creamy, hearty soup chock full of potatoes, corn and diced ham. Filling enough for a main dish or as side dish. It’s fast and EASY to make in the Instant Pot!

    Potato Corn Chowder title image

    If you are a chunky soup lover, this Potato Corn Chowder is for you!

    Loads of satisfying texture and delicious flavor in a fast and easy soup recipe.

    Making it in the Instant Pot give the chowder recipe great flavor!

    If you like a spicy south-of-the-border flavor try this Tex Mex Instant Pot Potato Soup recipe too. 

    Potato Corn Chowder with Ham

    Chowder is a satisfying soup any time of the year. The chunky texture makes a satisfying main dish or a side dish.

    This recipe loads up on diced potatoes and corn; two classic ingredients in many chowder recipes.

    Add in diced ham for some protein and a bit of saltiness for a perfect soup.

    Making the chowder recipe in the Instant Pot makes it fast. It also does not need to be monitored like stove top soup recipes.

    Bowl of potato corn chowder bowl with Instant Pot

    Ingredients

    • Unsalted butter
    • Onion (yellow or red)
    • Carrot
    • Garlic cloves
    • Chicken broth (low sodium or regular)
    • Water
    • Salt
    • Black pepper
    • Potatoes (any type; Russet, Yukon, Red New, etc)
    • Corn (frozen or fresh)
    • diced Ham
    • Heavy cream or Half-and-Half
    • Milk
    • Cornstarch

    Ingredient Notes

    Chicken Broth

    I recommend low-sodium Chicken Broth or Stock however No Salt or regular chicken stock will work.

    Adjust the added salt amount accordingly. Add more than called for if using unsalted broth; less if using regular stock.

    Potatoes

    Any type of potatoes will be delicious in this chowder recipe. 

    TIME SAVING SHORTCUT: swap in 4 cups of frozen diced (not grated) hash brown potatoes. Don’t thaw before adding them.

    Select a brand that only includes potatoes, no seasoning.

    Diced canned potatoes would also work.

    Diced Ham

    Prepared (store bought) diced ham is the fastest choice however diced leftover holiday ham may also be used.

    Cream 

    Depending on how rich you prefer your chowder, use heavy cream or Half-and-Half. Both are delicious.

    Milk

    Any fat content milk may be used (whole, 2%, non fat).

    Bowl of potato corn chowder with ham

    Deglazing the Pan – an Important Step

    What is Deglazing?

    Deglazing is the process of adding liquid after sauteing with the purpose of freeing any browned bits of food sticking to the cooking pan.

    While the pan (or Instant Pot cooking insert) is still hot, the liquid is poured in.

    Using a spatula or cooking spoon, any bits are scraped up and mixed with the liquid.

    It adds more flavor and keeps the bottom of the pan free of stuck food.

    Key to Avoid Instant Pot Burn Warning

    Some models of Instant Pots will have a burn warning when cooked food particles stick to the bottom of the Instant Pot cooking insert. 

    The deglazing step is key to avoid this!

    What is a Cornstarch Slurry?

    Cornstarch is used to thicken soups, sauces and gravy. If added directing to the soup however it will clump and won’t thicken the soup correctly.

    Instead it is mixed with the equal amount of water and whisked or stirred to dissolve. This is called a ‘cornstarch slurry’.

    When this mixture is added to the soup, it mixes in perfectly and thickens the soup.

    Bowl of potato corn chowder bowl with spoon

    How to Make Potato Corn Chowder – Step-by-Step

    This recipe was developed using a 6-quart Instant Pot.

    STEP 1: Set the Instant Pot to SAUTE and melt the butter. When melted add the onions and carrots. Saute for 5 minutes (photo 1).

    STEP 2: Add the garlic and saute 2 additional minutes.
    potato corn chowder recipe steps 1-4

    STEP 3: Add the chicken stock and water. Using a spatula or spoon deglaze the pan by scraping any brown bits sticking to the Instant Pot bottom free (photo 2). This will prevent a burn warning.

    STEP 4: Add the potatoes, corn and diced ham (photos 3-5). Stir to combine. 

    STEP 5: Secure the Instant Pot lid and seal the release valve. Set the Instant Pot to Manual/High Pressure for 5 minutes. When cooking is complete, allow a 10 minute Natural Release followed by a Quick Release for any remaining pressure.

    potato corn chowder recipe steps 5-6

    STEP 6: Add the cream, milk and cornstarch slurry to the Instant Pot and stir to combine (photo 6); stir to combine.

    STEP 7: Select SAUTE mode and cook the soup 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly, until the soup begins to thicken. Serve!

    spoon of Potato Corn Chowder from the Instant Pot

    More Soup Recipes You’ll Love

    • Jalapeno Corn Chicken Chowder
    • Hearty Vegetable Cabbage Soup
    • Turkey Tortilla Soup
    • Rustic Wild Mushroom Soup
    • Homemade Tomato Soup
    • Homemade Chicken Soup
    • Vegetable Beef Soup

    Try these Recipes too!

    • Jalapeno Ham Hash
    • Mashed Instant Pot Sweet Potatoes
    • Instant Pot Artichokes
    • Jalapeno Popper Cheesy Potatoes

    Bowl of potato corn chowder bowl

    Did you make it? Please RATE THE RECIPE below!

    Please SUBSCRIBE and FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK , TWITTER , INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST !

    Potato Corn Chowder title image

    Instant Pot Potato Corn Chowder

    This chunky, delicious chowder is full of potatoes, corn and diced ham. It's so easy in the Instant Pot any time of the year.
    5 from 22 votes
    Print Save Recipe Recipe Saved! Pin Rate
    Course: Soup
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes
    Pressuring Time + Release Time: 30 minutes
    Total Time: 50 minutes
    Servings: 11 1-cup servings (11 cups total yield)
    Calories: 111kcal
    Author: Toni Dash
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Equipment

    6 quart instant pot
    6 quart Instant Pot

    Ingredients

    • 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter
    • 1 small Onion chopped
    • 1 Carrot chopped
    • 2 cloves Garlic minced
    • 2 cups Chicken Broth low sodium; if using regular omit the salt
    • 1 cup Water
    • 1 teaspoon Salt
    • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
    • 2.5 pounds Potatoes peeled and diced
    • 1 12-ounce package frozen Corn (or 2 cups fresh Corn)
    • 1 16-ounce package diced Ham
    • 1 cup Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half
    • 1 cup Milk
    • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water

    Instructions

    • Set the Instant Pot to saute and add the butter. When the butter is melted, add the onion and carrot and saute for five minutes.
    • Add the garlic and saute for two minutes.
    • Add the chicken broth and water and use a spoon to deglaze the pot. Then turn off the Instant Pot.
    • Season with salt and pepper and add the potatoes, corn, and ham. Stir to combine.
    • Place the lid on the Instant Pot and seal the vent. Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. When the cook time is up, allow the Instant Pot to do a natural release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release to remove remaining pressure.
    • Remove the lid and add the cream, milk, and cornstarch slurry. Stir to combine, then set the pot to saute for 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly (be sure to stir to the bottom surface to avoid burning), until the soup begins to thicken.

    Video

    Nutrition

    Calories: 111kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 392mg | Potassium: 107mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1312IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 1mg
    Did you make this recipe?Mention @boulderlocavore or tag #boulderlocavore!
    « How to Make Strawberry Frosting – with real Strawberries
    Cornbread Recipe – with 6 Variations! »

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR

    TONI DASH
    Toni Dash head shot

    Toni Dash, is a Certified Nutrition Coach and the writer/blogger, photographer, recipe developer and creator of Boulder Locavore®. She has been developing easy to make, well-tested recipes since 2010. Her seasonal recipes bring excitement to the dining table for both gluten-free and gluten diners. Toni has been featured in numerous publications and on culinary websites for her creative, delicious recipes and travel features. For more details, check out her About page.

    Free Email Course

    5 FAST & EASY 15-MINUTE RECIPES
    Spending too much time in the kitchen?
    These recipes are fast, easy, and perfect for every occasion.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Elcee C says

      December 28, 2021 at 5:50 am

      5 stars
      I used all the ingredients listed but added a couple extra carrots and only used about a pound of russet potatoes. The soup tasted great and the cooking times were perfect.

      Reply
    2. Laura says

      April 15, 2021 at 4:36 pm

      Just made this. It’s tasty but I’m wondering what is the difference between Canadian and American russet potatoes. LOL I’m curious how your potatoes looked so firm after 5 mins cooking when mine (approx 1 inch cubes) were mush after 3 mins cooking. After setting on saute and stirring for a few minutes, I had no need for the corn starch slurry. My chowder is thick and creamy but I have no visible potatoes.

      Reply
      • Toni Dash says

        April 16, 2021 at 6:03 am

        Hi Laura. That’s odd! So are you saying the potatoes disintegrated during the pressure cooking cycle or the sauté cycle at the end? Unfortunately which ever is the case I’ve never had that happen. Did your potatoes seem hard or floury before you put them in?

        Reply
    3. Sara Welch says

      April 14, 2020 at 8:04 pm

      5 stars
      Made this for dinner tonight and it has easily become a new family favorite meal! Looking forward to leftovers tomorrow! It was delicious!

      Reply
    4. Claudia Krusch says

      April 14, 2020 at 7:54 pm

      5 stars
      I can’t wait to try your recipe! Love all the ingredients! Sounds amazing!

      Reply
    5. Haley D Williams says

      April 14, 2020 at 12:19 pm

      5 stars
      I want to warm up to a big bowl of this! Love a good chowder!

      Reply
    6. Nancy says

      April 14, 2020 at 11:25 am

      5 stars
      I loved making this in the instant pot! So creamy and flavorful!

      Reply
    7. Suzy says

      April 14, 2020 at 11:10 am

      5 stars
      The best kind of comfort food and the best way to use up leftovers! So tasty and delicious!

      Reply
    8. wilhelmina says

      April 14, 2020 at 9:25 am

      5 stars
      This was amazing! We have had a cold snap here and this was just the thing to warm us up. Delicious!

      Reply
    9. Allyson Zea says

      April 14, 2020 at 9:08 am

      5 stars
      This chowder was so easy in the instant pot!

      Reply
    « Older Comments

    Primary Sidebar

    About Toni Dash

    Toni Dash BoulderLocavore.com Head Shot

    Welcome! I’m Toni. I’m a Certified Nutrition Coach and my goal is to MAKE YOUR LIFE EASIER with delicious, well-tested recipes and travel tips! More About Me …

    Search Boulder Locavore

    AS FEATURED ON….

    BoulderLocavore.com Featured By Press

    Mother's Day

    • Milk bath rose petals, cornmeal, cucumber slices DIY Home Spa Treatments for Mother’s Day {that kids can do!}
    • 10 Rose-Flavored Dessert Recipes title image 10 Rose-Flavored Dessert Recipes
    • BAKED DOUGHNUTS TITLE IMAGE Easy Baked Donuts with fresh Raspberries
    • DIY Sparkling Flower-scented Coconut Oil Sugar Scrub pink with pink sugar DIY Gift Idea: Sparkling Flower-Scented Coconut Oil Sugar Scrubs
    • Edible Flower Springtime Tea Party Edible Flower Springtime Tea Party
    • a silver bowl full of rose-flavored dark chocolate truffles Rose-Flavored Dark Chocolate Truffles

    TRENDING RIGHT NOW

    • Ultimate Burger Grill Guide title photo with burgers on a charcoal grill Ultimate Burger Grill Guide: How to Grill the Perfect Burger
    • Carafe of apple cider vinegar with apples (titled image of how to make homemade vinegar) How to Make Homemade Vinegar
    • artichoke dipping sauces Artichoke Dipping Sauce: 4 Easy Delicious Recipes
    • How to Make Moist Homemade Shredded Chicken Breast title How to Make Moist Homemade Shredded Chicken Breast Recipe
    • Korean BBQ Chicken title image Easy Korean BBQ Chicken recipe
    • homemade ketchup title image The Best Homemade Ketchup – Made with Fresh Tomatoes!

    Footer

    Contact | About | Privacy Policy | Disclosure Policy | Accessibility Statement | Cookie Policy


    SIGN ME UP to get FREE recipes directly to my inbox!

    Don't miss our TRAVEL SECTION!


    Copyright © 2010-2022 All Rights Reserved

    Boulder Locavore is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.