Looking for a comforting and delicious recipe to warm you up on cold days? This recipe for Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder is the perfect solution. This creamy and flavorful chowder combines the heartiness of potatoes and bacon with the richness of cheddar cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
When you crave a comforting meal after a long day, the aroma of this thick and hearty soup filling your kitchen will make your evening. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder :
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder
– Simplicity: This recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients and steps.
– Filling: The combination of bacon, potatoes, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and hearty flavor.
– Convenient: Slow cooking allows you to prepare this dish effortlessly, perfect for busy individuals.
– Adaptable: You can easily adjust the recipe to fit your dietary preferences and available ingredients.
– Affordable: This recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this Chunky Bacon and Potato Chowder:
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 5-6 medium potatoes, cubed and peeled
– 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 chopped fresh parsley
Feel free to add optional ingredients like corn kernels, carrots, celery, smoked paprika, or half-and-half for variation.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious bowl of chowder:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
– Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add diced bacon and cook until crispy.
– Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
– Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with bacon drippings.
– Cook until translucent and fragrant, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Mix Potatoes and Seasonings
– Add cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
– Season with thyme, salt, and black pepper, then stir to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
– Cover the slow cooker, set to low, and cook for 6-8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Chowder
– Gently smash some potatoes in the slow cooker using a potato masher.
Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese
– Pour in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
– Allow the chowder to heat through for another 20-30 minutes.
Step 7: Final Touches and Serving
– Mix in the cooked bacon and parsley before serving.
– Ladle the chowder hot in bowls for a comforting meal.
Storage Options
Store leftovers in sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, warm the chowder in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Variations and Substitutions
– Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
– Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add smoked paprika for flavor.
– Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free for dietary preferences.
– Add More Flavor: Experiment with chili pepper, fresh herbs, or different types of cheese for varied taste.
What to Serve With Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder
Pair this chowder with crusty bread, a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing fruit salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot ?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by adjusting the cooking time and method.
Is this chowder freezer-friendly ?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder for future enjoyment. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.
Can I use turkey bacon or a meat alternative ?
Absolutely, feel free to substitute with your preferred meat or plant-based option.
Can I add more vegetables to this chowder ?
Yes, customize the recipe with additional vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
After preparing this Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder, you can expect a comforting and flavorful dish that will warm you from the inside out. The creamy texture, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes combine to create a satisfying meal that will become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 5-6 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced bacon and cook until crispy.
- Remove bacon and set aside.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet.
- Cook until translucent and fragrant.
- Add potatoes and broth to the slow cooker.
- Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until potatoes are tender.
- Smash some potatoes gently in the slow cooker.
- Pour in cream and cheese, stir until creamy.
- Heat through for 20-30 minutes.
- Mix in bacon and parsley before serving.