Slow Cooker Corn Chowder
Slow Cooker Corn Chowder is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with a creamy, rich base. This easy-to-make chowder is perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. With the help of a slow cooker, you can achieve deep, satisfying flavors that make this chowder a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh sweet corn kernels about 5-6 ears: Substitute with 3 cups frozen corn if fresh isn't available.
- 1 medium onion finely chopped: Adds depth and flavor to the chowder.
- 2 carrots peeled and diced: Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks diced: Adds flavor and texture.
- 2 cloves garlic minced: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and cubed: Adds body and texture to the chowder.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the base of the chowder.
- 1 cup cream or half-and-half: Adds creaminess and richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle herb flavor.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses the chowder with a mild earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the chowder.
- Optional garnishes: chopped crispy bacon or smoked ham shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives: Adds extra flavor and presentation.
Instructions
- Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Peel and cube the potatoes. If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and cut the kernels off the cob.
- Place the corn, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in the slow cooker. Add the cubed potatoes on top.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and flavors have melded.
- Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to lightly puree some of the soup, or mash some of the potatoes with a fork. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of cream or half-and-half.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnished with crispy bacon, smoked ham, shredded cheddar cheese, or chopped chives, if desired.
Notes
- Lighter Version: Substitute cream with milk or a plant-based alternative for a lighter chowder.
- Using Frozen Corn: Use 3 cups of frozen corn if fresh isn't available. Fire-roasted corn adds a flavorful twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon or ham garnish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding milk if it has thickened.
Nutrition
Calories: 300kcal
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