Cheesy Mexican Corn Chowder is a rich, creamy, and flavorful soup packed with sweet corn, hearty vegetables, and zesty Mexican spices. The addition of cheese makes it extra comforting, while ingredients like peppers, cumin, and chili powder give it a delicious Tex-Mex twist. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or even meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy – The combination of cheese and heavy cream creates a luxurious texture.
Bold Mexican Flavors – Spices like cumin and chili powder bring warmth and depth.
Quick and Easy – This chowder comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or add protein like chicken or shrimp.
Great for Leftovers – The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Red bell pepper, diced
Jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra spice)
All-purpose flour
Chicken or vegetable broth
Potatoes, diced
Corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Cumin
Chili powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for about a minute to create a roux.
Slowly pour in the broth, stirring to prevent lumps.
Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the corn, heavy cream, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or shrimp for extra heartiness.
Make it Spicier: Use extra jalapeños, add cayenne pepper, or drizzle hot sauce before serving.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and swap cheddar for a plant-based cheese.
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or fire-roasted corn for a deeper taste.
Chunky or Smooth: Blend half of the chowder for a creamier consistency while keeping some chunks for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This chowder can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture may slightly change due to the dairy content.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a little broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

How can I make this chowder thicker?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.

Can I use frozen or canned corn?

Yes, both frozen and canned corn work well. If using canned corn, drain it before adding to the chowder.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for a rich, bold flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

Can I make this chowder dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Is this chowder gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of broth or milk if needed. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cheese and cream at the end.

What can I serve with this chowder?

Pair it with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I add beans to this chowder?

Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans add protein and texture to the dish.

How do I make it less spicy?

Omit the jalapeño and reduce the chili powder to make it milder.

Conclusion

Cheesy Mexican Corn Chowder is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines creamy cheese, sweet corn, and bold spices. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this chowder is sure to satisfy. With plenty of ways to customize it to your taste, it’s a versatile recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your household.