There’s something magical about a warm, hearty bowl of Creamy Corn Soup that brings instant comfort. This soup combines the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of milk and cream cheese, all brought together by savory garlic and onions. Perfect for cozy nights or as a starter for a more elaborate meal, this dish is easy to prepare and is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is bound to become a favorite staple in your recipe collection.

The following recipe uses simple ingredients, many of which are pantry staples, making it a versatile go-to dish. You can adjust it to suit your taste or dietary preferences, making it a flexible and forgiving dish. The creamy texture, combined with the slight crunch of the corn and the aromatic richness of the garlic, is what makes this soup truly special.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• ½ onion, chopped – Adds a base flavor that’s slightly sweet and aromatic, essential for the depth of the soup.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley – Lends a fresh, herbal note that lightens the richness of the soup while adding a pop of color.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a rich and silky texture.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Garlic elevates the soup with its pungent aroma and slightly spicy flavor.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Acts as a thickening agent to create the creamy consistency that gives this soup its signature texture.
• 2 ½ cups milk – The base of the soup that creates the luscious creamy texture.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds flavor depth without making the soup too heavy. It also helps balance the creaminess.
• 2 (12-ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained – Corn provides a sweet, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.
• 2 ½ tablespoons cream cheese – Adds richness and creaminess with a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the corn.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt – Enhances the garlic flavor and adds just the right amount of saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Brings a mild heat and earthy flavor to the soup.
• Ground cayenne pepper to taste – Optional, for a little extra spice for those who like a hint of heat in their soup.

Directions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• Heat butter in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions and minced garlic.
• Sauté until the onions become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. This will help release their flavors and form the base of the soup.

2. Make the Roux:

• Add the flour to the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux, which helps thicken the soup. Be careful not to let the flour burn.

3. Add the Liquids:

• Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth to the roux. Stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure everything is well combined.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the Corn and Cream Cheese:

• Once the soup base is slightly thickened, stir in the drained corn, cream cheese, garlic salt, black pepper, and ground cayenne pepper (if using).
• Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the cream cheese melts completely and the soup becomes smooth.

5. Blend (Optional):

• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some whole corn kernels for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend it until smooth, and then return it to the pot.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Corn Soup:

1. Fresh or Frozen Corn: While canned corn is convenient, you can substitute fresh corn kernels (about 3-4 ears) or frozen corn for an even fresher taste.
2. Dairy-Free Option: To make this soup dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and cream cheese alternatives. Olive oil or coconut oil can replace butter.
3. Blending for Creaminess: If you like a completely smooth soup, blend the entire mixture until creamy. For a chunkier soup, blend just half or none at all.
4. Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, or celery for extra texture and nutrition.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~220 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Cholesterol: 35 mg