slow cooker corn chowder bacon

This slow cooker corn chowder with bacon is the kind of recipe you want simmering away all afternoon, filling the house with the rich promise of creamy soup. The blend of sweet corn, smoky crisp bacon, and melt-in-your-mouth potatoes will warm everyone at the table. I love making this on a lazy Sunday when overstuffed couches and big bowls are calling our names.

My own crew loves dipping chunks of bread directly into their bowls so nothing is left behind and any leftover soup tastes even better for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

• Corn: either fresh or frozen bursts with natural sweetness and is the centerpiece of this chowder choose kernels that are plump and golden
• Russet potatoes: bring heartiness and a creamy finish buy firm potatoes with unblemished skin
• Yellow onion: sweetens as it cooks and adds a savory base select one that feels heavy for its size
• Carrots and celery: build up the background depth of flavor look for bright colored and crisp stalks and roots
• Garlic: brings an aromatic kick use fresh cloves not pre-minced for best flavor
• Bacon: adds smokiness and crunch choose thick cut for maximum flavor payoff
• Low sodium chicken broth: keeps the soup from being too salty opt for gluten free if needed
• Heavy cream and whole milk: create a luscious consistency reach for full fat options for silkiness
• Salt pepper smoked paprika dried thyme: round out the profile with savory and herby notes use freshly ground pepper for best aroma
• Fresh chives and extra bacon bits for garnish: give a dash of color and crunch pick up herbs that look vibrant and perky

Instructions

Cook the Bacon:

Dice the bacon and cook in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp This step develops the foundational smokiness for the chowder Use a slotted spoon to lift out the bacon onto a paper towel lined plate and pour off most of the bacon fat keeping about two tablespoons for the next step

Sauté the Vegetables:

Add diced onion carrots and celery to the hot bacon fat in the skillet Stir and cook for four to five minutes until softened The mixture will start to smell rich and inviting

Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:

Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker followed by corn potatoes minced garlic and half of your cooked bacon The layering allows each ingredient to gently combine flavors during the long simmer

Add Liquids and Seasoning:

Pour in chicken broth and add salt black pepper smoked paprika and dried thyme Stir gently so everything is evenly mixed These seasonings will infuse the chowder while it cooks

Slow Cook Until Tender:

Set the cooker on low for six to seven hours or high for three to four hours until the potatoes can be pierced easily with a fork The slow simmer melds all the flavors

Thicken the Chowder:

If you like a thicker chowder use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes and corn directly in the slow cooker I find this step impossible to skip for true stick to your ribs comfort

Add Dairy and Finish:

Stir in heavy cream and milk Let the soup cook uncovered on high for fifteen to twenty minutes more so it finishes heating and gets velvety Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed

Serve and Garnish:

Grab your ladle and fill bowls piping hot Top each with the remaining bacon and scatter a handful of chopped chives on top for extra color and freshness

Pin

One of my favorite moments is bringing those first bowls to the table and watching everyone inhale that smoky bacon aroma No matter how many times I serve this chowder it always sparks chatter about childhood snow days and big family dinners

Storage Tips

Let the chowder cool completely before storing Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days Gently reheat on the stove over low heat adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much The flavors develop more by the next day

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen corn if fresh is out of season and Yukon gold potatoes for extra creaminess For a lighter version swap half and half for the heavy cream Smoked turkey bacon works as a delicious alternative if you avoid pork

Serving Suggestions

Serve this corn chowder with crusty bread for dunking or crispy oyster crackers Sprinkle extra chives or a dash of smoked paprika on top to brighten the flavor Try pairing it with a crisp green salad for a bit of contrast

Cultural and Historical Context

Corn chowder is a classic American dish rooted in hearty farm cooking that highlights corn and pork staples in regional kitchens In New England especially you will find chowders on every diner menu This slow cooker version brings the tradition home with modern convenience

Seasonal Adaptations

Fresh sweet corn heightens the chowder in summer farmers market season Roasted red peppers make a colorful addition in late summer or fall Use heartier herbs like rosemary or sage for a wintery twist

Success Stories

One snowy week I doubled the batch for a neighborhood potluck and it disappeared before anything else My family now requests corn chowder for every chilly birthday or Sunday supper It is the most fuss free crowd pleaser in my recipe box

Freezer Meal Conversion

Cool the soup completely before portioning into freezer safe containers Freeze for up to three months Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently over low heat Stir occasionally to restore creaminess a splash of milk can help

Pin

This corn chowder warms up our coldest nights and brings everyone together with easy comfort and endless spoonfuls. Let it simmer long and serve with plenty of crusty bread.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I make this chowder vegetarian?

Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add an extra teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, both fresh and frozen corn kernels work well and offer great texture and flavor in the chowder.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

Crusty bread or oyster crackers make excellent sides for dipping and complement the creamy chowder.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you choose a gluten-free broth, this chowder is gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

→ How can I make the chowder thicker?

Lightly mash some potatoes and corn once cooked, or blend part of the chowder for a creamier consistency.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, make in advance and reheat gently before serving. The flavors will continue to develop.