| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 4-5 medium, peeled and diced | Russet or Yukon Gold |
| Frozen corn | 2 cups (about 300 g) | No need to thaw |
| Onion | 1 large, diced | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 4 cups (960 ml) | Low-sodium recommended |
| Heavy cream or whole milk | 1 cup (240 ml) | |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | |
| Fresh thyme | For garnish | Optional |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Peel and dice the potatoes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Combine in the Slow Cooker
Place the potatoes, corn, onion, garlic, and broth in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Cream
Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and butter during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Let it heat through.
5. Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Chowder
Don't Overcook the Potatoes: Check them at the minimum cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Add a Little Thickness: For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.
Add Bacon: For extra flavor, cook and crumble some bacon and sprinkle it on top before serving.
Make It Cheesy: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes for a cheesy corn chowder.
Delicious Variations
| Variation | What to Add/Change |
|---|---|
| Cheesy Corn Chowder | Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar. |
| Bacon Corn Chowder | Add crumbled cooked bacon. |
| Spicy Corn Chowder | Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños. |
| Herb Corn Chowder | Add fresh thyme or rosemary. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh corn?
Yes! Fresh corn cut from the cob works beautifully.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chowder?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
What should I serve with this?
Crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon are wonderful accompaniments.
A Gentle Reminder
This Slow Cooker Corn and Potato Chowder is a beautiful reminder that the simplest meals often bring the greatest comfort. It's warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
