Instant Pot Chipotle Cheddar Corn Chowder
This Instant Pot chipotle cheddar corn chowder is a rich, creamy soup loaded with sweet corn, tender potatoes, smoky chipotle peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting one-pot meal that’s quick enough for busy weeknights and packed with bold flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 4 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional Toppings:
- Crumbled bacon
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil or butter.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the potatoes, corn, chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and broth. Stir to combine.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
- Perform a quick pressure release after the cooking cycle is complete.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the chowder, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, cream cheese if using, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings before serving.
Notes
- Frozen corn can be added directly without thawing.
- Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken or black beans for a heartier meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- If the chowder thickens during storage, stir in a splash of broth or milk while reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg