Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder

Nothing warms the heart and soul quite like a bowl of hearty chowder! If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting dish that can be prepared with minimal effort, then look no further than this Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder. This recipe combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes, all simmered to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this article, you will discover not just how to make this delightful chowder, but also why it has become a beloved dish in many households. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a go-to choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are several reasons why you’ll absolutely love making this chowder:

• Comforting and Satisfying: The smooth and creamy texture coupled with the smoky flavor of bacon creates a cozy dish that’s perfect for any time of year, especially during colder months.
• Effortless Preparation: With only a handful of ingredients and the use of a slow cooker, you can prepare this chowder in just a few minutes. Simply chop, toss, and let the slow cooker do the work!
• Customizable Ingredients: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or even substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The chowder keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Make a big batch and enjoy it over several days!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this chowder, making it an ideal family meal. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a rich and cheesy flavor.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying out the Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder is more than just a culinary adventure; it’s a way to bring joy and satisfaction to your dining table. Here are a few compelling reasons to give it a try:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon and rich cheddar creates a flavor profile that is both savory and indulgent. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor that makes every meal feel special.
• Healthier Comfort Food: While chowder often gets a bad rap for being heavy, this recipe allows you to enjoy those comforting flavors without the excessive calories. The use of fresh potatoes and wholesome ingredients keeps it balanced.
• Time-Saving: With busy schedules, finding time to cook can be challenging. This slow-cooked chowder allows you to set it and forget it! Just prepare in the morning, and enjoy a warm meal when you return home.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Hosting a gathering? This chowder works wonderfully as a starter or main dish. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal that will impress your guests.
• Endless Variations: Feel free to personalize your chowder! Add spices, herbs, or even different types of cheese to create variations that suit your palate.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To prepare this delightful Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder, you will need the following ingredients and utensils:

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Chopped green onions or chives for garnish

Utensils

• Large skillet
• Slow cooker
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving ladle
• Bowl for garnishing

Make sure to have these items ready to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything at your fingertips will make preparation a breeze!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive into the steps to make this scrumptious Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet to sauté the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your chowder.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, chicken broth, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, and garlic. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Season: Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. This is where the flavor begins to develop.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chowder is done when the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Add Cream and Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the chowder.
7. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade chowder!

Cooking Tips:

• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor twist.
• For added texture, consider adding some cooked diced ham or shredded chicken.
• Using Yukon Gold potatoes yields a creamier texture, but any variety will work.

FAQs

Conclusion

In summary, this Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dining table with minimal effort. The combination of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon is simply irresistible. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you loved this recipe, feel free to share it with friends and family! Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Aioli for another food adventure!

Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder

A creamy and hearty chowder that combines the flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Dish, Soups

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 6 slices Bacon, chopped
• 1 medium Onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 4 cups Potatoes, diced About 4 medium potatoes
• 3 cups Chicken broth
• 1 cup Frozen corn
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Chopped green onions or chives for garnish

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
• In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
• In a slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, chicken broth, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, and garlic.
• Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
• About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
• Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or chives. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder!

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or substituting half of the heavy cream with milk.

Keyword bacon, cheddar, Chowder, potatoes, slow cooker