Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder – Rich, Creamy, and Comforting

Looking for a luxurious yet cozy meal that highlights fresh seafood and sweet corn?

Ina Garten’s Lobster Corn Chowder is the answer. This hearty soup blends tender lobster meat with creamy potatoes, sweet corn, and savory aromatics, resulting in a comforting bowl full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a starter, it’s a perfect choice for both special occasions and weeknight meals.

What is Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder?

Ina Garten’s Lobster Corn Chowder is a New England–style creamy soup, elevated with chunks of lobster, fresh corn kernels, and diced potatoes. The base is built on sautéed onions, celery, and herbs, enriched with cream and butter for a smooth, velvety texture. It’s a satisfying dish that balances seafood richness with the sweetness of summer corn.

Other Popular Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Lobster Roll
• Ina Garten Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
• Ina Garten’s Baked Chocolate Pudding
• Ina Garten’s Lobster Potato Salad

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• Luxurious comfort food – Combines elegance and warmth
• Fresh flavors – Sweet corn and lobster pair beautifully
• Versatile meal – Serve as a main or starter
• Perfect for any season – Light enough for summer, hearty enough for winter
• Impressive for guests – Feels like restaurant-quality
• Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and enjoy later
• Customizable – Add bacon, herbs, or veggies to suit your taste

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• 1½ pounds cooked lobster meat, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 3 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears) or frozen
• 3 cups peeled and diced Yukon Gold potatoes
• 4 cups seafood stock (or chicken stock)
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional for garnish)
• Optional: pinch of cayenne for gentle heat

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

Sauté aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Add potatoes and corn

Stir in the corn kernels and diced potatoes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour in stock and simmer

Add the seafood (or chicken) stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Stir in cream and wine

Add the heavy cream and white wine. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.

Add lobster meat

Gently stir in the chopped lobster and cook just until heated through, about 2–3 minutes. Do not overcook, as lobster can become tough.

Taste and adjust

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne if desired.

Serve warm

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chives if using. Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• Serve with crusty French bread – Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup
• Pair with a light green salad – Balances richness with freshness
• Add a side of roasted asparagus – A seasonal, elegant touch
• Include oyster crackers or croutons – Adds crunch to each bite
• Top with crispy bacon bits – For smoky depth and texture
• Serve with grilled cheese toasties – Makes it a satisfying meal

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• Use fresh lobster if possible – Sweetness and texture are unmatched
• Don’t overcook the lobster – Add it at the end to avoid toughness
• Dice vegetables evenly – Helps with uniform cooking and texture
• Use heavy cream for richness – Avoid substituting with milk
• Simmer, don’t boil after adding cream – Prevents separation
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving – Especially with seafood stock
• Let it rest before serving – Enhances flavor and body

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• Add crispy bacon – For a smoky depth
• Include diced carrots or red bell peppers – Adds sweetness and color
• Substitute crab or shrimp – Still delicious and a bit more affordable
• Use leeks instead of onions – For a milder, delicate flavor
• Add a dash of Old Bay seasoning – Classic with seafood
• Make it spicy – Add jalapeño or crushed red pepper
• Use half-and-half instead of cream – For a lighter version

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Stays fresh for 2–3 days
• Freeze in portions – Use freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months
• Cool before storing – Helps maintain texture
• Label with date – For best quality management
• Avoid storing in metal containers – Use glass or BPA-free plastic

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Lobster Corn Chowder

• Stovetop method preferred – Heat gently over low-medium heat, stirring often
• Microwave in short bursts – Stir in between to avoid hot spots
• Do not boil – Prevents cream from separating
• Add a splash of cream or broth if too thick – Helps restore smooth texture
• Taste after reheating – Adjust seasoning if needed
• Use within 2–3 days – For best flavor and texture

Nutrition Value (per serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 460 kcal
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Cholesterol: 145mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen lobster for Ina Garten’s lobster corn chowder?

Yes, frozen lobster meat works well if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw it completely, pat it dry, and add it at the end to avoid overcooking.

How do I thicken lobster corn chowder without flour?

Simmer the chowder uncovered to let it reduce naturally. You can also mash a few of the potatoes or blend a small portion of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker texture.

Can I make lobster corn chowder ahead of time?

Yes, this chowder can be made a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop without bringing it to a boil to maintain the creaminess.

What are the best potatoes for lobster corn chowder?

Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for chowder. They hold their shape well while still adding creaminess when slightly broken down during cooking.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Lobster Corn Chowder blends elegance and comfort in one warm, creamy bowl. With its mix of sweet lobster, tender potatoes, and fresh corn, it’s a dish that feels both indulgent and homemade. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or date nights at home, this chowder is sure to earn a permanent place in your recipe collection.

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