Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder

BY :

Ovia Smith

Posted On :

October 21, 2025

Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder

Are you ready for a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this delectable Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder. This creamy, cheesy chowder is packed with savory flavors and hearty ingredients, making it the perfect meal for any chilly day. With just a few simple steps, you can have a rich and satisfying chowder simmering away in your slow cooker, allowing you to go about your day while it does all the heavy lifting for you!

Imagine coming home after a long day to the delightful aroma of bacon and cheese enveloping your kitchen. This chowder is not only easy to prepare, but it also features wholesome ingredients like potatoes, corn, and garlic, all swimming in a velvety broth. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a gathering with friends, this chowder is sure to impress. With crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and a touch of spice, each bowl is a hug in a mug that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love this Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes creates a symphony of taste that will have you savoring every spoonful. The addition of corn adds a touch of sweetness, while the spices elevate the overall profile, ensuring that there’s a delightful surprise in every bite.

Another reason to adore this chowder is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can easily whip this up even on the busiest of days. Just set it and forget it there’s no need to fuss over the stove. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and creamy texture that is hard to resist.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize the chowder to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the spices or adding in extra vegetables. You could even make it a heartier meal by tossing in shredded chicken or some beans. And let’s not forget about the garnishes! A sprinkle of green onions or chives adds a burst of freshness that complements the dish perfectly. No matter how you choose to personalize it, this chowder will quickly become a staple in your household.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying out this Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder is a decision you won’t regret. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it’s also a fantastic make-ahead option. Prepare it in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a hot, comforting meal ready to serve. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

This chowder is also a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or a family dinner, it’s sure to satisfy hungry bellies. The combination of flavors and textures makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it can easily be served with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

And let’s talk about nutrition! While it’s indulgent with bacon and cheese, it also incorporates wholesome ingredients like potatoes and corn, providing essential vitamins and minerals. You can feel good about serving this dish to your loved ones, knowing it includes nourishing components. Plus, if you’re looking for a bit of a lighter option, consider swapping out heavy cream for a lighter alternative without sacrificing the creamy texture.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create this incredible Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder, you’ll need the following 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

In addition to these ingredients, here are some recommended utensils to ensure your chowder comes out perfectly:

A sharp knife for dicing vegetables
A cutting board
A large skillet for cooking bacon and sautéing vegetables
A slow cooker for simmering the chowder
A ladle for serving
A whisk for mixing in the cream and cheese

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients and utensils ready, let’s dive into the detailed steps for preparing your Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder:

Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, 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 for the next step.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Prepare the Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, chicken broth, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, and garlic. Stir to mix everything together.
Season: Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker. Mix well to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. You can check for tenderness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should easily break apart.
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 well incorporated into the chowder.
Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder!

FAQs

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes, this chowder can be made ahead of time. Prepare the chowder as directed and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this chowder?

Yes, you can freeze the chowder. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.

Can I add more vegetables to this chowder?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or even spinach. Just make sure to add them at the beginning of the cooking process so they become tender.

How do I thicken the chowder?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes in the slow cooker before adding the cream and cheese. Alternatively, you can sprinkle in some cornstarch mixed with water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Cheddar Bacon Potato Chowder is a versatile and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Don’t forget to invite friends and family to share in this delicious experience, and feel free to experiment with the ingredients to make it your own!

We’d love to hear from you! If you try this chowder, please leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to share this recipe with others who might enjoy it. For more delightful recipes, check out our Pinterest page for inspiration!

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