Description

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder. This rich and creamy dish is the ultimate cold-weather meal, combining the smoky goodness of bacon with tender potatoes and a velvety broth. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you can set it in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner or a meal-prep option that tastes even better the next day, this chowder has you covered.

Ingredients

• For the Chowder:
• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Creamy Base:
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional Garnish:
• Fresh chives, chopped
• Additional crumbled bacon

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and crumbled bacon to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Season with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.

Cover and set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The potatoes should become fork-tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully as the chowder simmers.

Once the potatoes are cooked, prepare the creamy base. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the slow cooker, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.

Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the chowder. If the chowder appears too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or additional chicken broth.

Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh chives and extra bacon for a delightful finishing touch. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Conclusion

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also add vegetables like corn or celery for extra texture and flavor. This chowder stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors only deepen with time. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if necessary.
Slow Cooker Hearty Potato Bacon Chowder is a dish that delivers on both flavor and convenience. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a creamy, smoky, and satisfying soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with your family, this chowder is bound to become a household favorite. Be sure to explore more comforting recipes on our site, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with loved ones. Happy cooking!