5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Potato Corn Chowder
Creamy, hearty, and irresistibly cozy—this Slow Cooker Potato Corn Chowder is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm blanket at the end of a long day. With just five simple ingredients and almost no hands-on effort, this dish delivers big comfort-food flavor with minimal prep. It’s the ultimate answer to busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or anytime you crave something rich, filling, and nostalgic.
Inspired by classic New England chowders that were designed to stretch humble ingredients into a satisfying meal, this modern slow cooker version keeps everything wonderfully simple. Tender chunks of potato, sweet pops of corn, and a luxuriously creamy broth come together into a soup you’ll find yourself thinking about long after the bowl is empty. Best of all, the slow cooker does all the work—just dump, cook, and enjoy.
Ingredients (And Why Each One Matters)
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes – Potatoes are the backbone of this chowder. Russets break down slightly for thickness, while Yukon golds stay buttery and creamy, giving you the perfect chunky texture.
- 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen corn kernels – Sweet corn balances the richness of the cream and adds texture and color to every bite.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of potato soup – This is the secret shortcut that delivers deep, savory flavor and creamy consistency without extra ingredients.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Broth creates the soup base and allows the potatoes to cook gently while absorbing flavor. Low-sodium keeps the seasoning under your control.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Heavy cream gives the chowder its signature velvety finish and luxurious mouthfeel.
Optional but recommended: Salt and black pepper to taste, plus toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, or hot sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Layer the vegetables: Add the chopped potatoes and frozen corn to the bottom of a 5–6 quart slow cooker. Spreading them evenly ensures even cooking.
- Create the soup base: Pour in the condensed cream of potato soup followed by the chicken broth. Stir gently until everything is well combined and the potatoes are mostly submerged.
- Slow cook to perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are fork-tender but still hold their shape.
- Add the cream: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Adjust the thickness: For a thicker chowder, gently mash a few potatoes directly in the slow cooker, leaving most chunks intact.
- Final warm-up: Cover and cook on LOW for an additional 15–20 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle into bowls and finish with your favorite toppings.
Why This Chowder Is So Loved
This recipe is adored because it strikes the perfect balance between effortless cooking and deeply comforting flavor. It’s affordable, flexible, and practically foolproof. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this chowder delivers consistent results every time. The slow cooker method also allows the flavors to meld slowly, creating a richness that tastes like it took hours of hands-on work.
Pro Tips for the Best Chowder
- Prep ahead: Chop the potatoes the night before and store them submerged in water in the fridge to save time.
- Make it thicker: Reduce the broth to 3 cups or let the chowder sit uncovered on WARM before serving.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or diced ham during the last 30 minutes for a heartier meal.
- Boost flavor: A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder adds depth without complicating the ingredient list.
- Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free condensed soup and unsweetened oat or coconut milk for equally creamy results.
Serving Suggestions
This chowder shines on its own, but it’s even better paired with the right sides. Serve it with a crusty baguette, warm dinner rolls, or homemade biscuits for dipping. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For ultimate comfort, pair it with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress, this 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Potato Corn Chowder belongs in your rotation. It proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be memorable. With minimal prep, everyday ingredients, and maximum flavor, this is the kind of dish that turns ordinary nights into cozy, comforting moments you’ll crave again and again.
