Slow Cooker Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a homemade chowder with this slow cooker creamy bacon corn chowder recipe. This soup is a symphony of delicious ingredients, all coming together in a rich and creamy broth. The slow cooker method makes this dish a breeze to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together for an incredibly tasty result.

Photos of Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe

This recipe includes some ingredients that might not be in your everyday pantry. Creamed corn, a blend of corn kernels and corn pulp, gives the chowder its creamy texture. Evaporated milk, a concentrated form of milk with about 60% of the water removed, adds a rich depth to the dish. Be sure to pick up some if you don't have it on hand.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Carrots: A sweet, earthy vegetable that adds crunch and color to the chowder.

Onion: Provides a savory depth of flavor.

Potatoes: They thicken the soup and give it a hearty, filling quality.

Corn: Adds a natural sweetness and pops of texture.

Creamed corn: Gives the chowder its creamy consistency.

Water: Used to create the right soup consistency.

Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor.

Thyme: A herb that adds a subtle earthy flavor.

Dried parsley: Offers a slight peppery note.

Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors of the soup.

Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.

Evaporated milk: Adds a rich, creamy element to the chowder.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the soup.

Butter: Adds a rich, velvety finish to the chowder.

One reader, Ingeberg Schott says:

This slow cooker creamy bacon corn chowder recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the bacon adds a delicious smokiness. It's so easy to make, and the creamy texture is just perfect. This recipe has become a family favorite in our house!

Ingeberg Schott

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

How to prepare the vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots, onion, and potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture in the chowder.

How to cook the bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces.

How to thicken the chowder: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the evaporated milk before adding it to the slow cooker to thicken the chowder.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the chowder before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to achieve the desired flavor.

How To Make Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Complete every meal with a bowl of this creamy and flavorful corn chowder. It has a hint of sweet and salty taste from the bacon and vegetables.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 5 hours

Total: 5 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Place everything except for the evaporated milk, cornstarch and butter or margarine into the slow cooker.

1. Add just enough water or chicken stock to cover the ingredients.

1. Cook on High 5 hours or Low 7 to 8 hours until vegetables are softened.

1. Combine cornstarch and evaporated milk. Stir into slow cooker along with butter 30 minutes before serving,

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

- Calories: 356.33kcal

- Fat: 21.16g

- Saturated Fat: 8.43g

- Trans Fat: 0.17g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.33g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.03g

- Carbohydrates: 33.53g

- Fiber: 3.66g

- Sugar: 9.62g

- Protein: 10.92g

- Cholesterol: 40.80mg

- Sodium: 747.26mg

- Calcium: 96.98mg

- Potassium: 724.26mg

- Iron: 1.25mg

- Vitamin A: 153.99µg

- Vitamin C: 21.41mg

Technique Tip for Making Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

When preparing your bacon for this chowder, consider partially cooking it before adding it to the slow cooker. This will render some of the fat, which can add a deeper flavor to the chowder. However, be careful not to fully crisp the bacon as it will continue to cook in the slow cooker. This step is optional but can enhance the overall taste of your corn chowder.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and bacon the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop the carrots, onions, and potatoes for the chowder.

Set a timer: Use a timer to remind you when to add the evaporated milk and cornstarch to the slow cooker.

Organize ingredients: Organize all the ingredients and utensils needed for the recipe before starting to cook to save time and reduce stress.

Multi-task: While the chowder is cooking, use the time to prepare a side salad or dessert to accompany the meal.

Pre-measure: Pre-measure all the spices and seasonings in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot meal: Consider using a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup, making this a truly one-pot meal.

Leftover magic: Repurpose any leftover chowder as a delicious sauce for pasta or a filling for savory pies.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe

carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor to carrots, making them a suitable substitute in this chowder recipe.
potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can add a hint of sweetness and a slightly different texture, enhancing the flavor profile of the chowder.
bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey or chicken: Smoked turkey or chicken can provide a similar smoky flavor and savory element to the chowder, while reducing the overall fat content.
evaporated milk - Substitute with whole milk: Whole milk can provide a creamy texture and richness similar to evaporated milk, while maintaining the desired consistency in the chowder.

Best Way to Present This Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker creamy bacon corn chowder, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the layers of flavors and textures in the chowder.
Garnish with bacon crumbles: Sprinkle crispy bacon crumbles on top of the chowder to add a savory and smoky element to the dish. The contrast in textures will enhance the overall dining experience.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing the chowder with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a hint of herbaceous flavor.
Serve with artisan bread: Pair the creamy chowder with a slice of warm, crusty artisan bread. The combination of the rich chowder and the hearty bread will create a satisfying and comforting dining experience.
Use elegant tableware: Choose elegant and sophisticated tableware to serve the chowder. Opt for high-quality ceramic or porcelain bowls to elevate the dining presentation.
Consider the placement of the bowl: Pay attention to the placement of the bowl on the plate. Aim for a balanced and aesthetically pleasing arrangement, ensuring that the chowder is the focal point of the presentation.
Add a drizzle of cream: Before serving, delicately drizzle a swirl of cream on top of the chowder. This artistic touch will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a luxurious creaminess to the dish.
Create a harmonious color palette: Consider the color composition when plating the chowder. Aim for a harmonious balance of colors, using the natural hues of the ingredients to create an inviting and appetizing presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures, making it perfect for slow-cooking soups, stews, and chowders.
Knife: Essential for chopping the carrots, onions, and potatoes.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
Can opener: Used to open the cans of corn and creamed corn.
Measuring cups and spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the water, evaporated milk, and other ingredients.
Whisk: Used for combining the cornstarch and evaporated milk to create a smooth mixture.
Spatula: Helpful for stirring the chowder and ensuring even cooking.
Ladle: Used for serving the creamy bacon corn chowder.
Tongs: Useful for handling the bacon while cooking and for serving.
Peeler: Needed for peeling the carrots and potatoes.
Slow cooker liner: Optional, but can make cleanup easier.

How To Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Let the corn chowder cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and diluting the flavor.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chowder to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the chowder in individual portions or in a large freezer-safe container. Leave some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container with the date and contents to keep track of your frozen meals.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed or refrigerated chowder gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
Note: The potatoes in the chowder may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor will still be delicious.
Avoid freezing the chowder with any toppings like crumbled bacon or shredded cheese. Add these fresh when serving for the best texture.
Properly stored, your creamy bacon corn chowder will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl whenever the craving strikes!

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Reheat the chowder in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and prevent the chowder from burning or becoming too thick.
If the chowder has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of chicken stock or milk to thin it out while reheating. Stir well to incorporate the added liquid and achieve a smooth consistency.
For a quicker reheating option, use the microwave. Transfer the desired portion of chowder to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chowder to become grainy or separate.
If you have stored the bacon separately to maintain its crispness, reheat it briefly in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble the crispy bacon over the reheated chowder for added texture and flavor.
To enhance the flavor of the reheated chowder, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or a dash of hot sauce. These additions can brighten up the flavors and give the chowder a fresh taste.
If you have a large quantity of leftover chowder, reheat only the portion you plan to serve to maintain the best quality. Reheating the entire batch multiple times can cause the vegetables to become mushy and the chowder to lose its optimal texture.

Random Fact About Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Bacon corn chowder is a classic American dish that originated in the New England region. It is a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for cold winter days.

Is Making Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder at Home Economical?

This slow cooker creamy bacon corn chowder recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as potatoes, corn, and bacon, are affordable and readily available. The addition of evaporated milk and butter enhances the creaminess without significantly increasing the cost. With an approximate cost of $15, this hearty chowder can easily feed a family of four. The rich flavors and satisfying texture earn this recipe a solid 9 out of 10, making it a budget-friendly and delicious option for any household.

Is This Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Healthy or Unhealthy?

This slow cooker creamy bacon corn chowder recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in saturated fat due to the bacon, butter, and evaporated milk
Significant amount of sodium from the bacon and added salt
Refined carbohydrates from the potatoes and corn
Limited variety of vegetables, lacking in nutrient-dense options

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients, such as carrots and onions, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the bacon with a leaner protein source, such as chicken or turkey
Use low-fat or fat-free evaporated milk to reduce the saturated fat content
Incorporate a wider variety of vegetables, such as celery, bell peppers, and spinach, to increase the nutrient density
Reduce the amount of added salt and rely on herbs and spices for flavor
Swap half of the potatoes with cauliflower or parsnips for a lower-carb option
Use whole grain cornmeal or flour to thicken the chowder instead of cornstarch, adding more fiber and nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your comfort food cravings.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe

This slow cooker creamy bacon corn chowder recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of bacon adds a rich smokiness, while the creamed corn and evaporated milk create a lusciously creamy base. The addition of thyme and parsley brings a subtle herbaceous note, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a comforting and hearty chowder. However, I would recommend adding a touch of acidity, such as a splash of lemon juice or a hint of white wine, to balance the richness and brighten the flavors. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan coating.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for a delightful side dish.

Bacon Wrapped Green Beans: Crispy green beans wrapped in savory bacon for a delicious and indulgent side dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and creamy mashed potatoes made with butter and cream for the perfect comfort food side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and savory herbs, simmered to perfection in a rich and flavorful broth.

Zesty Lemon Chicken: Tender and juicy chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lemon and herb marinade, then grilled to perfection for a light and refreshing meal.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and flavorful mushroom risotto, made with Arborio rice, mushrooms, onions, and a touch of Parmesan cheese for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating shrimp in a crispy coconut breading. Fry until golden brown and serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a crunchy oat and brown sugar crumble. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of caramel swirl ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe:

This recipe uses fresh vegetables and bacon to create a rich and flavorful chowder. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and comforting dish. The addition of evaporated milk and butter adds a creamy texture, while the thyme and parsley bring a depth of flavor. The use of cornstarch helps to thicken the chowder, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Trust in the combination of these quality ingredients to deliver a delightful and comforting corn chowder experience.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Corn Chowder Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of water. You can also add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add a smoky flavor to the chowder.

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned corn?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh corn instead of canned corn. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and use them in the recipe. Fresh corn will add a delicious, sweet flavor to the chowder.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the chowder to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop.

Can I use something else instead of evaporated milk?

If you don't have evaporated milk, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream as a substitute. Just keep in mind that using heavy cream will make the chowder richer and creamier.

How can I add more flavor to the chowder?

To add more flavor to the chowder, you can add some chopped fresh herbs such as thyme, parsley, or chives. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a little kick.