If you’re craving the warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor of Panera’s famous summer corn chowder, you’re not alone. This seasonal favorite has built a loyal fanbase, thanks to its comforting texture and rich, garden-fresh taste. But what if you could recreate this delicious soup right in your own kitchen? In this guide, we’ll explore the best recipe for Panera summer corn chowder, so you can enjoy it anytime, regardless of the season.
Why People Love Panera Summer Corn Chowder
Panera’s summer corn chowder is a creamy, hearty soup that combines sweet corn, red bell peppers, poblano peppers, and golden potatoes in a rich broth. It’s both satisfying and refreshing—perfect for warm weather lunches or as a cozy side on cooler evenings. The slight kick from poblano peppers and the sweetness of corn make it a unique combination that’s hard to forget.
Many fans search for a recipe for Panera summer corn chowder because it’s only available for a limited time in restaurants. Recreating it at home not only saves money, but it also lets you tweak ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Copycat Recipe for Panera Summer Corn Chowder
Here’s a spot-on, easy-to-follow recipe for Panera summer corn chowder that brings the flavors of the original right to your table.
Ingredients:
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4 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn (about 6 ears if fresh)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 cups diced Yukon gold potatoes
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and pepper to taste
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3 cups vegetable broth
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1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
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Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, or a squeeze of lime
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, red bell pepper, and poblano pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
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Add garlic and spices: Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add potatoes and broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
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Add corn and cream: Stir in the corn and cook for another 5 minutes. Lower the heat and pour in the half-and-half or cream, stirring gently to combine.
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Blend partially (optional): For a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a few cups to a blender, puree, and stir it back in.
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Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or lime if desired.
Tips for Perfecting Your Recipe for Panera Summer Corn Chowder
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Use fresh corn when possible: It adds natural sweetness and texture.
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Roast your peppers: For an added depth of flavor, roast the poblano and red bell peppers before adding them to the pot.
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Make it vegan: Swap the butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this recipe for Panera summer corn chowder so successful is its balance of creamy texture and fresh vegetables. The potatoes help thicken the soup, while the spices give it the signature Panera flavor profile. The sweet corn pops in every bite, making each spoonful a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Whether you’re looking to relive your favorite Panera experience or want a new go-to soup recipe, this homemade version hits the mark.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm bowl of Panera’s summer corn chowder, and now, you can do it from the comfort of your own kitchen. With this easy and authentic recipe for Panera summer corn chowder, you’ll impress family and friends with a dish that tastes just like the original—if not better. Customize it to fit your dietary needs and make it a staple in your summer (or year-round) meal planning.
If you love Panera Bread and seasonal soups, bookmark this page and keep this recipe for Panera summer corn chowder in your regular rotation. It’s comforting, nourishing, and completely satisfying—just like your favorite restaurant version.