When you think of a delicious soup that works great for any season, Bobby Flay’s Crab Corn Chowder has to be on our mind!
This recipe combines fresh ingredients like sweet corn and white crabmeat for a rich and comforting bowl.
I always recommend using fresh corn if possible—it adds a burst of natural sweetness that complements the delicate flavor of the crab beautifully.
What I love most is the addition of crème fraîche, which brings a appealing creaminess to the chowder without overpowering the other flavors.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some chives on top for that perfect finishing touch!
How to Make Bobby Flay Crab Corn Chowder
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Celery (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Red Bell Pepper (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 cups Corn Kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb Crabmeat
- 2 cups Chicken Stock
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 tbsp Crème Fraîche
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Chives (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper.
Cook until veggies are soft, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 2:
Stir in the garlic.
Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3:
Add the corn kernels and chicken stock.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4:
Stir in the crabmeat and heavy cream.
Cook gently for about 5 minutes until the chowder is heated through.
Step 5:
Stir in the crème fraîche and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chives before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference
Using fresh corn and crabmeat can really elevate the flavor of this chowder.
The sweetness from fresh corn is unbeatable.
Adjust the Consistency
If you like thicker chowder, you can opt to reduce the amount of chicken stock.
Simmering it longer also helps to thicken it up.
Alternative Ingredients Are Your Friends
Feel free to replace crème fraîche with sour cream if you prefer.
Crab variation is okay too; use what’s available to you.
Don’t Forget the Garnish
Chives are not just for the looks.
They bring a subtle onion-like flavor that complements this chowder nicely.
What to Serve with Bobby Flay Crab Corn Chowder
Crusty Bread
A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs beautifully with Bobby Flay’s Crab Corn Chowder.
The bread acts as the perfect vessel for soaking up the rich and creamy broth.
Choose a sourdough or French baguette for an ideal companion to this tasty soup.
Simple Green Salad
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is refreshing alongside the chowder.
The crisp greens and tangy dressing help balance the richness of the soup.
Add in fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra texture and flavor.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus brings a smoky and crisp element to your meal.
The slightly charred flavor of asparagus complements the creamy crab chowder.
For added zest, drizzle the asparagus with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Sautéed Kale
Sautéed kale with garlic gives a nutritious and earthy contrast to the chowder.
The slight bitterness of kale rounds out the sweet and savory flavors of the dish nicely.
You might want to drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt for added flavor depth.
Cheese Plate
Offer a cheese plate with a selection of mild to medium cheeses for an unexpected pairing.
Cheeses like Brie, Gouda, or Gruyère can provide rich and creamy textures that complement the chowder.
Add nuts and fruit like grapes or figs for additional contrast and visual appeal.
Variations and Substitutions
You can switch up the crab with shrimp if you’re in the mood for something a bit different.
For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to spice things up!
If you prefer a lighter chowder, using half-and-half instead of crème fraîche can cut down on calories without sacrificing too much creaminess.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a unique twist in flavor.
Vegetable broth is a fantastic alternative if you’re aiming for a veggie-friendly version.
Cilantro can add a fresh punch, subbing in for the traditional parsley used as a garnish.
Looking for a smoky flavor? Add a dash of smoked paprika or cumin to the mix.
Don’t have fresh corn? Frozen corn works beautifully in this recipe, especially when corn is out of season.
Dairy-Free Options
Coconut milk is a great substitute for the traditional dairy components, bringing a subtle sweetness and creamy texture.
Consider using vegan butter in place of regular butter if needed.
If you want an even heartier chowder, try adding a can of white beans for extra protein and texture.
How to Store Leftover Bobby Flay Crab Corn Chowder
Keep It Fresh
Your leftover crab corn chowder should be cooled to room temperature before storing.
Use airtight containers to keep any unwanted odors from seeping in.
Label the container with the storage date so that you can keep track of when they were stored.
Refrigeration
Refrigerate the chowder and aim to consume it within two to three days.
Store it on a shelf instead of the door for a more consistent temperature.
If you’re planning to eat it soon, this short-term storage method is your go-to!
Freezing for Later
For longer storage, freezing is the best option.
Pour the chowder into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.
Try to use it within a month or two for the best taste.
This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready whenever you crave it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Lack of Fresh Ingredients
You’re going to want to use the freshest crabmeat and corn you can find—trust me, that makes all the difference.
Using canned crab can lead to a less flavorful chowder, so I always stick with fresh.
Overcooking the Vegetables
Watch those vegetables carefully! It’s so easy to overcook them, and that can make them soggy instead of vibrant and tasty.
I recommend keeping an eye on them and cooking until they are just tender for the best bite.
Skipping the Seasoning
Don’t forget to season well; a bland chowder isn’t fun to eat!
Be sure to taste your chowder as you go because sometimes a small pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can transform your dish completely!
Bobby Flay Crab Corn Chowder Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Celery finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Red Bell Pepper finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 cups Corn Kernels fresh or frozen
- 1 lb Crabmeat
- 2 cups Chicken Stock
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 2 tbsp Crème Fraîche
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper.
- Cook until veggies are soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic.
- Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the corn kernels and chicken stock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Stir in the crabmeat and heavy cream.
- Cook gently for about 5 minutes until the chowder is heated through.
- Stir in the crème fraîche and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chives before serving.