There's something magical about a hearty bowl of chowder, especially on a chilly day when you just need something to warm you from the inside out. Slow Cooker Potato Corn Chowder checks all the boxes for a comforting, soul-satisfying meal. Creamy potatoes, sweet corn, savory bacon, and a hint of garlic come together in a harmonious blend that tastes like a warm hug in a bowl. The best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work, giving you more time to relax or tackle your busy day.
Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to feed a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a go-to. Let's get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this cozy chowder. Most of these items are pantry staples, making it an easy recipe to pull together in a pinch.
For the chowder:
- 6 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 3 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For topping (optional but highly recommended):
- Extra cooked bacon crumbles
- Shredded cheese (cheddar works wonderfully)
- Chopped green onions
- Oyster crackers for crunch
Instructions
Get ready for your house to smell amazing! This is a true dump-and-go recipe with only a bit of prep up front, letting the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting.
Step 1: Prepping the ingredients
- Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small, evenly-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly and creates a creamy texture in the soup.
- Chop the onion, bacon, and garlic. If you’re using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob.
Step 2: Assemble everything in the slow cooker
- Add the diced potatoes, corn, onion, garlic, and bacon to the slow cooker. Sprinkle the thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the top.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is just covered. This ensures the perfect consistency for your chowder.
Step 3: Cook low and slow
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 7-8 hours. If you’re pressed for time, you can opt for the high setting and cook for 3-4 hours. Either way, you’re left with a wonderfully tender and flavorful base.
Step 4: Thicken and finish
- When the potatoes are fork-tender, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of them directly in the pot. This thickens the chowder and gives it that creamy consistency.
- Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding a little salt or extra smoked paprika at this point can take the flavors up a notch.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy!
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and sprinkle with your favorite toppings—crispy bacon crumbles, gooey cheese, and fresh green onions for a mix of texture and flavor.
Tips and Customization
One of the best things about this chowder is how versatile it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Make it vegetarian: Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead. You can add a dash of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor the bacon provides.
- Add protein: Stir in shredded chicken, cooked sausage, or even crab meat for a hearty twist.
- Spice it up: If you like heat, try adding diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some red pepper flakes.
- Thicken it up: For an even creamier chowder, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water or a roux made with flour and butter.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with other dishes. Serve it alongside warm crusty bread, buttery biscuits, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded dinner. Don’t forget to top it with your favorite garnishes for added flavor and presentation!
Make this Slow Cooker Potato Corn Chowder once, and it just might become a permanent addition to your recipe collection. With simple ingredients, minimal effort, and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that embodies comfort and joy in every spoonful. Get your slow cooker ready and enjoy the cozy goodness!
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