
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set It and Forget It : Prep in minutes and let the slow cooker do the work—perfect for busy days.
- Creamy & Hearty : Combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of cream and the heartiness of potatoes.
- Simple Ingredients : Made with pantry staples and fresh produce you likely already have on hand.
- Customizable : Add your favorite veggies, spices, or toppings to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Always a hit at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 6–8
For the Chowder:
- 6 slices bacon , chopped
- 1 medium onion , diced
- 3 medium potatoes , peeled and diced into small cubes
- 3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn if using fresh)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional : 1 tsp smoked paprika or thyme for extra flavor
For Garnish:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled bacon
- Fresh parsley , chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
- In the same skillet with the bacon grease, sauté the diced onion until softened and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- Add the sautéed onion, diced potatoes, corn, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and optional spices (like smoked paprika or thyme) to your slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours , until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Chowder
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, whisk the flour into the heavy cream until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Add Cream and Bacon
- During the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream and half of the cooked bacon. Reserve the remaining bacon for garnish.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, and fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works
- Slow-Cooked Flavor : The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Bacon Magic : Adds smoky depth and richness to the chowder.
- Creamy Texture : Heavy cream and potatoes create a velvety base without the need for complicated techniques.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick : Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Vegetarian Option : Skip the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the onion; substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Herbaceous Twist : Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for added freshness.
- Cheesy Upgrade : Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for an extra cheesy chowder.
- Smoky Flavor : Add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Corn : If corn is in season, fresh kernels add unbeatable sweetness and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Cream : Add heavy cream toward the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Serving Suggestions
- Brunch Staple : Serve alongside omelets, biscuits, or breakfast casseroles for a hearty brunch.
- Romantic Touch : Ladle into individual ramekins and top with a sprinkle of cheese and parsley for elegance.
- Party Platter : Set up a topping bar with shredded cheese, bacon, green onions, and crackers for guests to customize their bowls.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold day or looking for a simple recipe to make in your slow cooker, this chowder is sure to satisfy. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and minimal prep, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.
Your turn! Have you ever made corn chowder before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. π½