This Midwest Comfort Turkey Chowder is a heartwarming dish that brings together the creamy richness of New England soups with a Midwestern flair

Step 3: Create a Light Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step helps thicken the chowder and gives it that creamy texture that’s so comforting.

Step 4: Add Stock and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the turkey or chicken stock while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the cubed potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Turkey and Corn

Stir in the shredded turkey and corn. Let the chowder simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. At this stage, sprinkle in the thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir gently and let the chowder warm through, but avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to curdle. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon, chopped parsley or chives, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar if desired. Serve with warm crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Tips for the Perfect Midwest Turkey Chowder

1. Use leftover turkey – This chowder is a brilliant way to repurpose Thanksgiving or roasted turkey.
2. Adjust thickness – If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot. For a thinner version, simply add more stock.
3. Add extra veggies – Kale, peas, or parsnips can enhance the Midwestern flavor profile.
4. Make it ahead – The flavors improve the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Why This Chowder Works

What sets this Midwest Comfort Turkey Chowder apart is its blend of creamy New England-style base with the rustic, hearty vegetables and robust flavors of the Midwest. Each spoonful offers layers of taste—smoky bacon, tender turkey, sweet corn, and savory herbs—all wrapped in a velvety creaminess that makes you feel instantly at home.

Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or a casual family dinner, this chowder is more than a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl.

If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step infographic for this chowder so you can follow it easily while cooking. It’ll look like a professional recipe guide.

Do you want me to do that?