Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon and Corn Chowder Recipe
Warm, cozy, and utterly satisfying, this Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon and Corn Chowder is the perfect comfort food for cool weather. With the smoky depth of bacon, the sweetness of corn, and the creamy, velvety texture that wraps it all together, this chowder is easy to make and a delight for the whole family. Using a slow cooker means you can set it, forget it, and come back to a house filled with mouth-watering aromas. Let’s dive in!
🥘 Ingredients Overview
- Bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon adds richness and depth to this chowder.
- Onion: Sweet, caramelized onions bring balance to the soup.
- Garlic: Just a hint of garlic goes a long way in adding a warm, savory aroma.
- Frozen Corn: Corn gives the chowder its signature sweetness and a pop of texture.
- Chicken Broth: The broth serves as the base of this chowder, blending flavors seamlessly.
- Red Potatoes: Red potatoes add body to the chowder without getting mushy, lending a comforting heartiness.
- Thyme: This herb provides a mild, earthy essence that rounds out the chowder.
- Heavy Cream: Adds the creamy, rich texture that transforms the chowder into a luscious dish.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Chopped Chives: A fresh, mild garnish with a bit of color.
🥄 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Bacon to Perfection
- In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. This will add a smoky, rich layer of flavor to the chowder.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Using the same skillet with a bit of bacon grease, sauté diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
- Add the crispy bacon, sautéed onion, garlic, frozen corn, diced red potatoes, chicken broth, and thyme to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Slow Cook for Flavor
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and develop a rich depth.
- Finish with Cream and Seasoning
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the chowder into bowls, and garnish with chopped chives and any reserved bacon for a perfect finishing touch.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips for a Seamless Cooking Experience
- Tip 1: Pre-Cook the Bacon
Pre-cooking the bacon allows it to stay crispy, enhancing the chowder with a delightful texture and a smoky flavor. - Tip 2: Add Heavy Cream at the End
Stir in heavy cream near the end of cooking to keep the chowder creamy without curdling. - Tip 3: Season Gradually
With bacon already in the chowder, add salt gradually to avoid over-salting. Taste before serving. - Tip 4: Use Fresh Thyme
Fresh thyme enhances the chowder’s flavor, though dried thyme can also be used for a more subtle taste.
❓ Popular Questions About Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon and Corn Chowder
- Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh corn works wonderfully in this chowder. - Can I substitute heavy cream?
Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. - How do I make it thicker?
Add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 15 minutes of cooking. - What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can make this on the stovetop over low heat, covered, for about 1-2 hours. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but freeze without the cream, then add it upon reheating. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. - How long will it last in the fridge?
It keeps for up to 3 days. - Can I add other veggies?
Carrots, celery, or bell peppers make excellent additions. - Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No, red potatoes have tender skins that don’t need peeling. - Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yukon Golds work well, but russets may become too soft. - Can I add cheese?
Yes! A handful of shredded cheddar adds an extra layer of richness. - What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. - Can I add shrimp?
Yes, add shrimp near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking. - Is it gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free if you skip adding any flour. - Does the slow cooker size matter?
A 4-6 quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe. - Can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. - How can I make it lower in calories?
Use milk instead of cream and turkey bacon for a lighter version. - Will the bacon stay crispy?
Adding reserved crispy bacon just before serving helps. - Can I use almond or oat milk?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will be lighter. - What can I garnish it with?
Fresh herbs like parsley, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream are great options.
🌟 20 Secrets to Perfecting This Chowder
- Choose Quality Bacon for the best smoky flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic to maximize the aromatic base.
- Sauté Ingredients for extra depth of flavor.
- Cook Low and Slow for a smoother, richer taste.
- Try Smoked Paprika for added depth.
- Add Potatoes Early so they soften properly.
- Let the Chowder Sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Use a Blend of Corn for varied texture.
- Add Thyme Sprigs for easier removal if using fresh thyme.
- Use Cream at the End to keep it from curdling.
- Stir Slowly when adding cream to maintain texture.
- Allow Room to Simmer for the best consistency.
- Stir Occasionally if on high heat to prevent sticking.
- Add Red Pepper Flakes for a touch of heat.
- Thicken with Cornstarch if needed.
- Add Lemon Zest for a surprising freshness.
- Try a Splash of White Wine for complexity.
- Garnish Generously with fresh herbs for brightness.
- Layer Flavors by seasoning as you go.
- Make Ahead for a More Intense Flavor, as flavors meld overnight.
🥣 Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Allow chowder to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For freezing, omit the cream and freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Add the cream when reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute increments and stirring in between.
