Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder Recipe
Whether you’re a busy parent or someone who just loves a hearty meal, you’ll appreciate how effortless this Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder is to make.
I adore how it fills my kitchen with a comforting aroma while I can focus on other things. The best part? It’s packed with nutritious ingredients that make me feel good about serving it to my family.
Plus, the creamy texture and rich flavors are simply irresistible! I love that I can whip up a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Trust me, this chowder will quickly become a weeknight favorite in your home!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder
When it comes to making a comforting dish that warms the soul, this Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder is a winner. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. Plus, the best part is, you can throw everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. No slaving over the stove for hours!
So, what do you need to whip up this delightful chowder? Let’s break it down.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 ounces of Alaskan salmon (drained and flaked, canned or pouch)
- 3 ounces of chopped onions
- 6 ounces of chopped celery
- 4-5 ounces of shoestring carrots
- 3 cups of fat-free chicken broth
- 8 ounces of fat-free cream cheese (cubed)
- 1/4 cup of brown rice
- 1 tablespoon of dill weed
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 cup of water
Now, let’s talk about those ingredients for a second. First off, the salmon—you can totally use canned or pouch salmon, which makes it super convenient. No need to go fishing or anything. Just make sure it’s Alaskan for that extra tasty flavor.
The veggies add great texture and flavor, while the cream cheese makes everything wonderfully creamy. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap in different veggies or spices to fit your taste.
Don’t have dill weed? No problem! Just use what you have on hand. Cooking should be fun and not a hassle, right? So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious chowder that practically cooks itself.
How to Make Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder
Making Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder is as easy as pie, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good bowl of chowder? The first step is to grab that trusty slow cooker because it’s about to become your best friend.
Start by tossing in 3 ounces of chopped onions, 6 ounces of chopped celery, and 4-5 ounces of those cute little shoestring carrots. Just let those veggies mingle. They’re going to soften up beautifully in the next few hours.
Pour in 3 cups of fat-free chicken broth, and then add 1/4 cup of brown rice. It’s like a party in there, and trust me, the rice will soak up all that savory goodness as it cooks. Give everything a gentle stir, set your slow cooker to LOW, and let it work its magic for about 4-5 hours. Use this time wisely—maybe catch up on that show you’ve been meaning to binge or take a well-deserved nap.
Once the veggies are soft and tender, it’s time for the creamy transformation. Turn the slow cooker to HIGH and add in 8 ounces of cubed fat-free cream cheese. Ah, cream cheese—the secret to making this chowder luscious without the guilt.
Stir it all together until the cream cheese melts into that warm, cozy mixture. Next up, gently fold in the 12 ounces of flaked Alaskan salmon, 1 tablespoon of dill weed, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Don’t forget to add 1/4 cup of water to keep things nice and smooth.
Give it another stir, and let it cook for an additional 10-20 minutes on HIGH, stirring occasionally. This is where the flavors really come together, and if you’re anything like me, you might find yourself sneaking a taste or two. Just remember, it’s not polite to double dip, so grab a spoon just for you.
And there you have it, a warm and comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder ready to be devoured. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or serving it at a family gathering, this chowder is sure to be a hit.
Just scoop it into bowls, maybe sprinkle a little extra dill on top for garnish, and enjoy the fruits of your not-so-labor-intensive labor. Who knew cooking could be this easy?
Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
For instance, swap the salmon for shrimp or even a firm white fish like cod. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream instead of fat-free cream cheese.
You can also change up the veggies; try adding corn or potatoes for extra heartiness. Herbs like thyme or parsley can replace dill for a different flavor profile.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices to make it your own! Enjoy the creative process!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder
What pairs well with the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder?
I love serving it alongside some crusty, warm bread for dipping. A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the chowder nicely, balancing its richness.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I might whip up some garlic bread or cheesy biscuits to enjoy with it. I’ve even tried a revitalizing cucumber salad, which adds a nice crunch.
For a cozy evening, a glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, can really enhance the meal.
These sides elevate the experience and make it truly satisfying!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder, I’ve found that a few additional tips can really enhance the dish.
First, feel free to add other veggies like potatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you prefer a creamier chowder, blend a portion of the soup before adding the salmon.
I also recommend adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste—don’t hesitate to add more dill or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Finally, serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy experimenting and making this chowder your own!