If you’re craving a heartwarming, creamy soup that feels like a hug on a chilly day, you are going to love this Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe. This dish brings together the sweetness of fresh corn and the comforting earthiness of tender potatoes and veggies, all simmered slowly to develop rich, layered flavors. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to come home to a satisfying, creamy chowder bursting with wholesome goodness and a hint of smoky bacon if you like. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress friends, this Amish-style corn chowder is simply irresistible and wonderfully easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe plays a crucial role in building its classic taste and creamy texture. From the fresh corn’s natural sweetness to the subtle herbal notes of thyme, each component enhances the bowl’s depth and color.
- 4 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels: The star ingredient offering juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced): These add heartiness and help thicken the chowder as they cook down.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Provides a mild sweetness and savory base flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a subtle pungency that brightens the overall taste.
- 1 celery stalk (chopped): Brings a fresh, crisp aroma and slight crunch.
- 1 carrot (chopped): Contributes natural sweetness and a beautiful orange hue.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid foundation carrying all the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces delicate herbal undertones typical of Amish cooking.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the chowder its signature creamy, luscious texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used to create a rich roux and deepen the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the chowder for the perfect consistency.
- ½ cup chopped cooked bacon (optional): Adds smoky, savory notes that take this dish to the next level.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brings a pop of fresh color and a mild, herbaceous finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Veggies and Broth
Start by tossing the corn, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, carrot, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme right into your slow cooker. This combination of fresh and flavor-packed ingredients will slowly meld as they cook, creating an irresistible base for your chowder.
Step 2: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low and let everything cook gently for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The vegetables will become tender, and the flavors will marry beautifully to create the comforting heart of your Amish corn chowder.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Roux Mixture
About 30 minutes before serving, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then, slowly whisk in the heavy cream to make a smooth, velvety mixture that will thicken your chowder wonderfully.
Step 4: Add the Cream Mixture and Optional Bacon
Pour the creamy roux into the slow cooker and stir well to combine with the vegetables and broth. If you’re using bacon, add it now for a smoky depth of flavor. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until your chowder thickens and becomes irresistibly creamy and rich.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving Prep
Give everything a final stir to make sure all those delicious flavors are evenly distributed. Your Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe is now ready to serve, guaranteed to warm your soul with every spoonful.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant green contrast and a hint of freshness that perfectly complements the creamy chowder. For an added touch, a small dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese works beautifully too.
Side Dishes
This satisfying corn chowder pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls for dunking. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness and add a refreshing crunch alongside the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chowder in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or large bread bowls. This rustic presentation not only impresses guests but also enhances the homey, Amish feel of the dish. Adding crispy bacon on top or a drizzle of hot sauce can cater to different taste preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next-day chowder even tastier.
Freezing
This chowder freezes well if you want to prepare in advance or save leftovers. Make sure it has cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up if it thickens too much in the fridge or freezer. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from curdling.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. The chowder will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the vegetables and creamy base.
Is fresh corn or frozen corn better for this chowder?
Both work wonderfully. Fresh corn adds a little extra sweetness and texture, but frozen corn is convenient and available year-round while still providing great flavor.
Can I use a different thickener instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a substitute to keep it gluten-free. Just be sure to mix it with some liquid before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid lumps.
Can I partially blend the chowder?
Yes! Using an immersion blender to blend part of the chowder creates a lovely creamy texture with some chunks left for body. This is a popular way to enjoy a thicker, smoother chowder without losing texture.
How long can I keep leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftovers are best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness and safety. Store them in airtight containers to maintain flavor and prevent contamination.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. Its simple ingredients and hands-off cooking method produce a dish bursting with flavor and creamy goodness that feels like it was made with love. If you want a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out and impresses with its rustic charm, this recipe is a must-try. Gather your slow cooker and enjoy the magic of Amish country in your own kitchen.
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Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Amish
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and creamy Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder featuring tender corn, potatoes, and a touch of bacon, slow-cooked to perfection for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
For Creaminess and Garnish
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chopped cooked bacon (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, add corn kernels, diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, chopped carrot, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: About 30 minutes before serving, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Heavy Cream: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream to create a smooth, creamy mixture, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine Cream Mixture with Chowder: Pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker. Add chopped bacon if using and stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
- Thicken Chowder: Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the chowder thickens to desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon.
- For a creamier texture, partially blend the chowder using an immersion blender before adding the cream mixture.
- Use gluten-free flour to make this chowder gluten-free.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on broth sodium content and personal preference.
