Thick and Creamy Slow Cooker Corn Chowder Recipe

Warm up with a bowl of this creamy, comforting Slow Cooker Corn Chowder! Made with sweet corn, tender potatoes, hearty ham, and just the right amount of spice, this chowder is packed with flavor and so easy to prepare. Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it simmer into the perfect cozy meal, ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Corn Chowder

• So easy to make – Just dump all the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work. No standing over a stove or stirring constantly, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal with minimal effort. It’s truly a set-it-and-forget-it dinner.

• Deliciously creamy and comforting – The combination of cream-style corn, milk, and cream of mushroom soup makes every bite rich and smooth. Paired with tender hash browns and savory ham, it’s a meal that warms you from the inside out.

• Customizable spice level – Love a little heat? Keep the hot sauce and green chiles. Prefer it mild? Just leave those out for a kid-friendly, family-approved version that still tastes amazing.

• Perfect for leftovers – This chowder stores well and tastes even better the next day. It’s a great make-ahead option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

• Feeds a crowd – With 8 generous servings, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or potlucks. And it’s budget-friendly with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Ingredients For Slow Cooker Corn Chowder

• Milk – Adds creaminess and blends all the flavors together.

• Cream-style corn – Gives a naturally sweet, thick texture to the chowder.

• Condensed cream of mushroom soup – Adds rich, savory flavor and helps thicken the base.

• Chopped green chiles – Brings a mild heat and a pop of flavor (optional if you want it mild).

• Frozen corn – Adds bursts of sweetness and texture to every bite.

• Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes – Makes this chowder hearty and filling without needing to peel or dice potatoes.

• Cooked ham – Adds salty, meaty flavor that complements the sweet corn perfectly.

• Onion – Gives the chowder a savory base and adds depth of flavor.

• Butter – Adds richness and smoothness to the overall texture.

• Hot sauce – Brings heat and boldness to balance the creamy ingredients (use as much or as little as you like).

• Dried parsley – Adds a mild herbal touch and some color.

• Chili powder – Boosts the flavor with a warm, smoky spice.

• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Slow Cooker Corn Chowder

• Slow Cooker – The star of this recipe! It does all the cooking while you go about your day.

• Measuring Cups – For accurately measuring milk, corn, and other ingredients.

• Measuring Spoons – Helps you get just the right amount of seasoning and spices.

• Spoon or Spatula – For stirring everything together in the slow cooker before cooking.

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How To Make Slow Cooker Corn Chowder

• Pour all the ingredients into your slow cooker—no need to mix anything ahead of time.

• Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir everything together right in the pot.

• Put the lid on and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6 hours,

• epending on your schedule.

• Once it’s done, give it a final stir and season with extra salt or pepper if needed.

• Serve hot and enjoy a bowl of creamy, cozy goodness!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this corn chowder with a side of warm mini baguettes or buttery biscuits to soak up every drop.

• A lettuce, cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chowder.

• Top each bowl with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

• Bacon crumbles or oyster crackers make great garnishes if you want added crunch.

• Pair it with a cozy drink like hot cocoa or a glass of homemade iced green tea for a complete comfort meal.

Tips For Success

• First, don’t skip stirring the ingredients before cooking. Even though it’s a dump-and-go recipe, giving everything a quick stir helps the milk, soup, and seasonings blend evenly from the start. This means a smoother texture and more balanced flavor in every bite.
• Use high-quality cream-style corn and cream of mushroom soup if possible. Since these are the base of the chowder, their flavor makes a big difference. Store-brand works fine, but if you have a favorite brand that’s extra creamy or seasoned well, go with that!
• Cut your onion small so it softens completely during the slow cooking process. If the pieces are too large, they might stay a bit crunchy. Using frozen diced onion is also a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.
• When it comes to the ham, leftover ham from a holiday meal works great, or you can use pre-cooked ham cubes from the store. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the slow cooker. You can also substitute turkey ham or even diced rotisserie chicken for a twist.
• If you want a smoother chowder, use a potato masher near the end of cooking to gently mash some of the potatoes and corn. This thickens the chowder naturally without needing flour or cornstarch.
• Always taste before serving. Since the soup and ham add a lot of salt, you may find that you don’t need much additional salt. Add black pepper and more hot sauce to taste if you like an extra kick!
• Finally, serve your chowder hot and store any leftovers in the fridge once cooled. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to blend.

Variations And Substitutions

• There are so many fun ways to customize this Slow Cooker Corn Chowder to fit your tastes or dietary needs. One of the easiest variations is adjusting the spice level. If you love bold, spicy flavors, keep the hot sauce and green chiles as written, or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, skip both and replace with a little extra butter or cream to make it extra rich and kid-friendly.
• Want to make this vegetarian? Simply leave out the ham and use a meatless cream of mushroom soup. You can boost the flavor with smoked paprika, a dash of liquid smoke, or even some sautéed mushrooms. You could also stir in a can of drained white beans or chickpeas for added protein and texture.
• If you don’t have hash browns on hand, you can use diced fresh potatoes. Just make sure they’re cut into small, even pieces so they cook thoroughly in the slow cooker. Russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes all work well.
• The cream of mushroom soup can be swapped for cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a plant-based creamy soup alternative. Each one will slightly change the flavor profile but still give you that creamy chowder base.
• You can also swap out the milk for half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer chowder. Or, for a lighter version, use low-fat milk or even unsweetened non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just be sure to use one that won’t curdle with heat.
• For extra texture and color, stir in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even frozen peas during the last hour of cooking. And if you want to boost the cheesy factor, add shredded cheddar cheese at the end and stir until melted.
• This recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand. Whether you go spicy, cheesy, meaty, or meatless, your bowl of chowder will be delicious!

Storage and Reheating

• Let any leftover corn chowder cool down to room temperature before storing. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get even better as it sits, making this a great make-ahead option for easy lunches or dinners.
• To reheat, simply scoop the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If reheating a larger batch, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of milk if the chowder seems too thick after storing.
• You can also freeze this chowder, although the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. For best results, freeze in single-serve containers and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Be sure to stir well after reheating to bring everything back together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh corn instead of canned or frozen?

Yes, absolutely! Fresh corn cut straight off the cob works beautifully in this recipe. If you’re using fresh corn, you’ll want to use about 3 cups of kernels. Add them just like you would the frozen corn, and they’ll cook perfectly in the slow cooker.

What kind of potatoes can I use if I don’t have frozen hash browns?

You can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Just peel and dice them into small cubes so they cook evenly in the slow cooker. Russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes all work well for chowder. If you use fresh potatoes, the texture will be a little chunkier but still delicious.

Can I make this corn chowder dairy-free?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk (unsweetened and unflavored). You’ll also need to find a dairy-free version of cream-style corn and cream of mushroom soup, which are available at many grocery stores or natural food stores. The flavor will be slightly different but still creamy and satisfying. Just be sure the alternatives you choose can withstand long cooking times without curdling.

Is this chowder gluten-free?

It can be! Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you’ll want to double-check the labels on the cream of mushroom soup and hot sauce. Some canned soups and condiments contain hidden gluten. Look for certified gluten-free brands to keep this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

How can I make this chowder thicker?

The chowder is already thick and creamy, but if you want it even thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes and corn at the end of cooking. Another option is to stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and cold water (about 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken it without changing the flavor. Just remember to stir well and cook long enough for the cornstarch to fully activate.

Can I add cheese to this chowder?

Yes, cheese is a great addition! Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking, or sprinkle some on top right before serving. The cheese will melt right into the chowder, making it even more rich and flavorful. If you’re adding cheese, reduce the salt a little to keep it from becoming too salty.

What can I serve with corn chowder?

This chowder pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic toast, or buttery biscuits. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also helps balance the richness of the soup. For something heartier, serve it with a grilled sandwich or roasted veggies on the side. It’s a flexible main dish that works with lots of different sides.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a crowd. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold everything without overflowing. You may also need to add an extra 30–60 minutes of cooking time depending on the size and model of your slow cooker. Keep an eye on it, and stir halfway through if possible.

Other Easy Corn Recipes

Air Fryer Corn – Quick and easy, this air fryer corn comes out perfectly roasted with a tender bite and crispy edges.

Grilled Corn On The Cob – This grilled corn on the cob is sweet, smoky, and charred to perfection—no husk needed!

Black Bean Corn Dip – A zesty and colorful dip made with black beans, corn, and fresh veggies—perfect for parties or snacking.

Popcorn With Chocolate – Sweet and crunchy, this chocolate-drizzled popcorn is a fun and easy treat everyone will love.

Crab And Corn Salad – This creamy salad combines imitation crab and sweet corn for a light, refreshing dish that’s great for lunch or potlucks.

Fresh Avocado Corn Tomato – A vibrant and healthy salad bursting with juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and sweet corn.

Mexican Corn Salad – Inspired by street corn, this bold and creamy Mexican corn salad is loaded with flavor and spice.

More Soup Recipes

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