Creamy Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon Recipe for Comfort - The Pass and Provisions

Ingredients

• 3 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• 2 medium potatoes (peeled & diced)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions (chopped)
• Extra crispy bacon pieces
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)