There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty bowl of potato bacon chowder, especially on a chilly Midwestern evening. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or an easy meal to impress guests, this slow cooker chowder recipe is the perfect choice. The combination of creamy potatoes and smoky bacon creates a rich, satisfying dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, using a slow cooker makes it a breeze to prepare, allowing you to simply set it and forget it until it’s time to serve.
Pair this chowder with a side of warm, crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth. A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the chowder. If you want to elevate the meal even more, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a touch of indulgence.
Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5-6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the reserved bacon drippings. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Mash Some Potatoes for Texture:
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to slightly mash some of them in the slow cooker. This step helps to thicken the chowder and gives it a satisfying, creamy texture.
Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy. Continue cooking on low for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the Bacon and Serve:
Just before serving, stir in the cooked bacon. Sprinkle the chowder with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Lighter Version: For a lighter take, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. This will give the chowder a slightly thinner consistency but still maintain its delicious creaminess.
Add More Veggies: If you’d like to increase the nutritional value, add other vegetables such as corn, carrots, or celery. These additions will contribute extra flavor and texture.
Make it Smoother: If you have picky eaters who prefer a smoother soup, consider blending a portion of the chowder using an immersion blender before adding the cream and cheese.
Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Make Ahead: You can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just dump everything into the slow cooker and turn it on for an easy, stress-free dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This potato bacon chowder is more than just a soup—it’s a full meal in a bowl! With hearty potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy broth, it’s both filling and flavorful. The slow cooker does most of the work, making this dish perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Plus, the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly, so you can make a large batch without breaking the bank.
Suggested Sides and Pairings
To complete the meal, consider serving the chowder with one of these delicious side dishes:
Warm Crusty Bread: A rustic, crusty loaf of bread or homemade dinner rolls are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the chowder.
Crisp Green Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair the chowder with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese and toasted bread complement the creamy texture of the chowder.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus are excellent options to add some healthy veggies to your meal.
Storage and Reheating
Storing: If you have leftovers, allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the chowder cool and then place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Reheat the chowder on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the chowder is too thick after reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
With its rich, creamy broth, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes, this slow cooker potato bacon chowder is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd. So the next time you’re in need of some comfort food or want to impress your guests, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
