Creamy Crockpot Corn Chowder

Imagine this: a cozy, creamy bowl of chowder brimming with sweet corn, tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and that rich, buttery flavor that wraps around you like a warm hug. Perfect for chilly evenings or lazy weekend lunches, this Creamy Crockpot Corn Chowder is comfort in a bowl, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will be a regular in your dinner rotation.

There’s something magical about slow-cooked dishes—the way flavors meld together over time, creating a depth that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. And this chowder? It’s a celebration of everything we love about creamy soups: hearty textures, layered flavors, and that irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen while it simmers.

Recipe Origin

Corn chowder has roots in classic New England cuisine, but it’s beloved across the country in countless variations. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional corn chowder but simplifies it for the modern home cook using a crockpot. It’s designed for minimal fuss and maximum flavor, letting the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you relax.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Ladle for serving
• Small bowl for cornstarch slurry

Why You’ll Love Creamy Crockpot Corn Chowder

This recipe is more than just a soup—it’s a crowd-pleaser, a comfort food classic, and a versatile weeknight lifesaver. Here’s why it’s one of my favorites:

Effortless Comfort

Simply toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic. No standing over a hot stove or stirring constantly—perfect for busy days or when you just want a relaxing evening at home.

Rich and Flavorful

The combination of corn, potatoes, cream cheese, and bacon creates a velvety texture with layers of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Each spoonful is like a hug in soup form.

Crowd-Pleasing

Kids love the creamy sweetness, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor. The optional toppings like shredded cheddar, scallions, and extra bacon let everyone customize their bowl.

Customizable

Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne. Prefer it vegetarian? Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can easily adapt this chowder to suit your tastes.

Make-Ahead Friendly

This chowder stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer. Reheat it gently, and it’s just as delicious the next day. Perfect for meal prep or batch cooking.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Prep your potatoes evenly: Dice into similar-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
• Cook bacon separately: This adds smoky flavor and lets you reserve some for garnish.
• Use fresh or frozen corn: Both work beautifully; canned corn is fine too but drain well.
• Cornstarch slurry: Always mix cornstarch with a bit of the chowder liquid before adding back to prevent lumps.
• Slow cooker settings: Cook on low for deeper flavor, but high works if you’re short on time.

Ingredients in Creamy Crockpot Corn Chowder

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Here’s what makes this chowder so special:

Corn: Sweet, tender, and the star of the show. Fresh, frozen, or canned all work perfectly.

Honey Gold Baby Potatoes: Small, bite-sized pieces add a hearty texture. They soak up all the creamy, flavorful broth.

Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that create a flavorful base. The garlic adds warmth and depth, while the onion provides sweetness.

Chicken Broth: Unsalted broth gives control over seasoning and provides a rich, savory base.

Butter: Adds creaminess and richness that elevates every spoonful.

Bacon and Bacon Drippings: Smoky, savory, and irresistible. A few slices reserved for garnish add texture and flavor.

Seasonings: Badia Complete Seasoning, Knorr’s Chicken Bouillon, and freshly cracked black pepper balance the flavors perfectly.

Cream Cheese: Creates a luscious, velvety texture that makes the chowder indulgent but comforting.

Cornstarch Slurry: Thickens the chowder to just the right consistency.

Optional Toppings: Shredded cheddar, scallions, parsley, or extra bacon for a personalized touch.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this cozy, flavorful chowder:

Prep Your Ingredients: Dice the potatoes, onion, and garlic. Cook the bacon until crisp and crumble, reserving some for garnish.

Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Add corn, diced potatoes, onion, garlic, chicken broth, butter, cooked bacon, bacon drippings, Badia Complete Seasoning, Knorr’s Chicken Bouillon, and freshly cracked black pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine.

Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and flavors are well melded.

Add Cream Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, add the softened cream cheese. Stir until melted and incorporated, creating a rich, creamy texture.

Thicken with Cornstarch Slurry: Mix cornstarch into a ladle of chowder, then stir back into the crockpot. Cook for 5–10 more minutes until thickened.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or seasoning if needed.

Serve and Garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar, scallions, parsley, and reserved bacon for a beautiful, flavorful presentation.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: ~320 (without optional toppings)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3–7 hours depending on slow cooker setting
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 7 hours 15 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Corn Chowder

Fresh Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or slice of garlic bread to soak up all that creamy goodness.
Side Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the richness of the chowder.
With Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty meal.
As a Main: This chowder is filling and satisfying on its own, especially with toppings.
Presentation Tip: A drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of paprika, or a few fresh herbs make it look as amazing as it tastes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop potatoes and onions in advance for quicker assembly.
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip bacon.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a richer flavor.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for added depth.
• Chunky Version: Add diced carrots or celery for extra texture and color.

Additional Tips

• Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Keep some potato pieces slightly larger for texture contrast.
• Stir halfway through cooking for even distribution of flavors.
• Don’t over-thicken; you want the chowder creamy but not gluey.
• Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen corn?
A1: Absolutely! No need to thaw; it works perfectly in the crockpot.

Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Yes! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the bacon.

Q3: How thick should the chowder be?
A3: Rich and creamy, but still spoonable. Use cornstarch slurry to adjust thickness.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
A4: Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough.

Q5: Can I prepare it the night before?
A5: Definitely! Refrigerate overnight and reheat gently.

Q6: How do I prevent cream cheese from clumping?
A6: Soften it before adding and stir continuously until melted.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables?
A7: Sure! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers work well.

Q8: Can I use low-fat cream cheese or butter?
A8: Yes, but the chowder may be slightly less rich.

Q9: How do I reheat leftovers without separating?
A9: Reheat gently on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Q10: Can I make this on the stovetop instead?
A10: Yes! Simmer in a large pot for 25–30 minutes until potatoes are tender, then follow the same steps for cream cheese and thickening.

Conclusion

This Creamy Crockpot Corn Chowder is cozy, indulgent, and ridiculously easy to make. With sweet corn, tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and creamy richness, it’s the kind of recipe that comforts the soul and impresses the taste buds. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or any time you want a bowl of happiness, this chowder proves that slow-cooked meals can be both effortless and extraordinary.

So grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. Your kitchen will smell incredible, your family will be impressed, and you’ll have a new favorite comfort food recipe to turn to again and again.

Print