Slow Cooker Potato Chowder

Slow Cooker Potato Chowder is a hearty and comforting soup perfect for chilly days. This creamy chowder is packed with tender potatoes, carrots, celery, and flavored with cheese, sour cream, and aromatic herbs. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. Serve this delicious chowder with your favorite toppings for a complete and satisfying meal. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• Optional toppings: chopped bacon, green onions, extra cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

1. Add Vegetables: Place the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and diced celery into the slow cooker.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Chowder

1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Blend the Chowder

1. Blend (Optional): For a thicker, creamier chowder, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup directly in the slow cooker. You can also transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the slow cooker. If you prefer a chunkier chowder, skip this step.

Step 5: Add Dairy and Cheese

1. Add Cream and Sour Cream: Stir in the cream or half-and-half and the sour cream until well combined.
2. Add Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the chowder and stir until melted and smooth. Let the chowder cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low to heat through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
2. Serve Hot: Ladle the potato chowder into bowls and garnish with your choice of optional toppings, such as chopped bacon, green onions, and extra cheese.

Cooking Notes

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the chowder. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture.
• Broth: Use chicken broth for a richer flavor or vegetable broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
• Blending: Blending a portion of the chowder creates a creamy consistency. Adjust the blending according to your preferred texture.

Variations

• Bacon Potato Chowder: Add cooked, chopped bacon directly to the chowder for extra flavor, and use it as a topping.
• Corn and Potato Chowder: Add 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) to the slow cooker along with the other vegetables for a sweet, crunchy addition.
• Spicy Potato Chowder: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Keto Version

To make a keto-friendly version, replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets. Use heavy cream and a keto-approved cheese. Ensure all other ingredients are low in carbs.

Low Carb Version

For a lower-carb option, use a mix of cauliflower and turnips in place of potatoes. Use low-fat dairy options if desired.

Slow Cooker Potato Chowder is a delicious and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker method ensures a rich and flavorful chowder with minimal effort. Customize this recipe with your favorite toppings and variations to make it your own. Enjoy this comforting and hearty chowder with family and friends on a cozy day. Happy cooking!