5
ears of fresh corn, shucked (*or you can substitute 2 15-ounce cans of whole kernel corn, OR a combination of 1 can each of whole-kernel and creamed corn)
8 slices
(about 1/2 pound) bacon, diced
1 small
white onion, diced
3 cloves
garlic, minced
3 tablespoons
all-purpose flour
3 cups
chicken stock
2 cups
milk
1.5 pounds
potatoes, diced into 1/4-inch cubes (I used Yukon gold)
1
(4-ounce) can chopped green chiles
1 tablespoon
Old Bay seasoning (add more/less to taste)
1/2 teaspoon
dried thyme
1 cup
grated cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon
salt (add more/less to taste)
1/2 teaspoon
freshly-cracked black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
cayenne pepper
optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar cheese, thinly-sliced green onions, reserved bacon bits, sour cream