Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Corn Chowder Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, this Slow Cooker Corn Chowder hits the spot like no other.
I love how it warms me up on chilly days, filling my home with an inviting aroma. The creamy texture and delightful blend of flavors make every spoonful a joy.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare; I just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
There’s something so satisfying about coming home to a hearty, homemade meal.
It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, and I can’t wait for you to experience this comforting dish for yourself!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Corn Chowder
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Corn Chowder, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that rich, creamy flavor we all love. Each component brings something special to the table, whether it’s the hearty potatoes, the savory ham, or the sweet corn.
The best part? You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge already, making this recipe a go-to for those busy weeknights or when you just want something comforting without a lot of fuss. Let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Corn Chowder:
- 5 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 cups diced ham
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 (15 1/4 ounce) can whole kernel corn, undrained
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
Now, let’s talk about the fun part—getting creative with your ingredients. If you’re not a fan of ham, feel free to swap it out for chicken or even go meatless for a vegetarian version.
And those Yukon Gold potatoes? They’re fantastic for their buttery flavor, but you can use any potatoes you have on hand. Just remember, the creaminess comes from the evaporated milk, so don’t skip that part. It really ties everything together, like the cherry on top of an ice cream sundae.
Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for a little extra color and nutrition. After all, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen, right?
How to Make Slow Cooker Corn Chowder
Making Slow Cooker Corn Chowder is as simple as it gets, and trust me, it’s a game-changer for those chilly nights when you want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
First off, grab your 5 Yukon Gold potatoes and peel them. Make sure to cube them up nicely; no one wants giant potato chunks bobbing around in their chowder, right?
Next, you’ll need to chop up 2 onions and 3 stalks of celery. Don’t worry if you get a little teary-eyed from the onions; it happens to the best of us. Just think of it as your personal cooking ritual.
Now, let’s get everything into that magical vessel we call a slow cooker. Toss in the cubed potatoes, chopped onions, diced ham (2 cups of it, to be precise), and those beautifully chopped celery stalks.
Oh, and don’t forget that can of whole kernel corn—15 and a quarter ounces of it, undrained for maximum flavor. After that, you’ll want to add 2 tablespoons of butter because, really, butter makes everything better.
Sprinkle in some salt and ground black pepper to taste, and drop in 2 chicken bouillon cubes for that extra depth. Once everything is in there, pour in water until the ingredients are just covered.
Now, here’s the fun part: set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for about 8 to 9 hours. You can go about your day, maybe binge-watch that show everyone’s talking about or tackle the laundry you’ve been avoiding.
When the time is up, and your kitchen smells like heaven, stir in the 12 fluid ounces of evaporated milk. This is the secret to that creamy texture we all crave in chowder.
Let it cook for another 30 minutes on low so the flavors can meld beautifully. And there you have it, a delicious bowl of Slow Cooker Corn Chowder that will warm your soul.
Just be warned, you might want seconds—and thirds—because it’s that good.
Slow Cooker Corn Chowder Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that creamy Slow Cooker Corn Chowder, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
I love adding diced bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the ham with cooked bacon or shredded chicken.
For a vegetarian twist, simply skip the meat and add more veggies like zucchini or carrots. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon for a different taste.
And if you want to kick it up a notch, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika before serving—it’s a game changer!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Corn Chowder
What pairs perfectly with a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Corn Chowder? I love serving it with warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread to soak up every delicious drop.
A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a fresh touch and balances the richness of the chowder.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, try a grilled cheese sandwich—it’s a classic combo!
For a touch of elegance, a sprinkle of fresh herbs or crumbled bacon on top elevates the dish.
Enjoy these sides, and you’ll have a comforting meal that warms the soul!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Slow Cooker Corn Chowder, keep in mind that a few additional tips can enhance the flavors and texture.
First, I love using fresh corn when it’s in season for a sweeter taste. You can also add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for some extra kick.
If you’re in a hurry, feel free to use frozen corn, which works well too. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; sometimes a pinch more salt makes a big difference.
Finally, garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley can elevate your chowder’s presentation and flavor. Enjoy!