Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe

The Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender turkey, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes in the most delightful way. Perfect for using up leftover turkey and warming up chilly evenings, this chowder is full of rich flavors and a velvety texture that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker doing most of the work, letting all the ingredients meld together into a bowl of pure comfort and satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, and texture that makes this chowder so memorable.

• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth base that enhances all the other flavors.
• Potatoes (5 pounds, peeled and cubed): Provide the hearty, creamy body that makes this chowder so satisfying.
• Black pepper (1/2 tablespoon): Gives just the right amount of gentle spice to awaken the palate.
• Dried minced onion (½ tablespoon, optional): Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): Creates a flavorful and savory liquid foundation for the chowder.
• Frozen corn (2 bags, 10 ounces each): Brings bursts of natural sweetness and a lovely texture contrast.
• Cornstarch (1 ½ tablespoons): Helps thicken the chowder to the perfect creamy consistency.
• Heavy whipping cream (1 ½ pint): Adds luxurious creaminess and a velvety finish.
• Leftover shredded turkey (3-4 cups): The star ingredient, offering tender protein that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
• Crumbled bacon (for topping): Adds a smoky crunch that takes every bite to the next level.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping): Melts beautifully to add cheesy, gooey goodness.
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish): Provide a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild sharpness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe

Step 1: Start with Butter

Begin by placing your butter in the bottom of the slow cooker. This will melt and create a luscious base that helps sauté the potatoes and infuse the dish with richness right from the start.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes

Next, toss in your peeled and cubed potatoes. These little chunks will absorb all the wonderful flavors as they slowly cook, becoming tender and creamy, which is essential for that perfect chowder texture.

Step 3: Season and Add Broth

Sprinkle the black pepper and optional dried minced onion over the potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth. Add the frozen corn on top to bring a sweet crunchiness that pairs beautifully with the savory broth and creamy potatoes.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and let everything cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours. This slow simmer allows the ingredients to mingle, and the potatoes to soften just right without losing shape.

Step 5: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. This simple step is the secret to thickening your chowder without any clumps.

Step 6: Add Cream and Slurry

Pour the heavy whipping cream into the slow cooker, then stir in your cornstarch slurry. This addition transforms your broth into a silky, rich chowder that coats every spoonful beautifully.

Step 7: Incorporate Turkey

Stir in your leftover shredded turkey, letting all the ingredients come together. The turkey warms through and soaks up the creamy broth, adding heartiness and protein to the dish.

Step 8: Final Cooking

Cover and cook for another 30 minutes. This finish step ensures the chowder thickens perfectly and the turkey is heated through evenly.

Step 9: Garnish with Bacon, Cheese, and Green Onions

Top your chowder with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions right before serving. These garnishes add a delightful combination of smoky, cheesy, and fresh flavors that brighten every bite.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the chowder into bowls and savor the heartwarming, delicious medley of textures and tastes you’ve created with the Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of toppings! Crumbled bacon adds a crunchy, smoky contrast to the creamy chowder, while shredded cheddar brings a melty richness. A sprinkle of sliced green onions on top offers a fresh, slightly sharp bite that balances the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

This chowder shines on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls makes it even more satisfying. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing note to your meal, balancing the chowder’s richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy gathering, serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls to soak up every spoonful of soup. Alternatively, offer an array of toppings on the side so guests can customize each bowl — making the experience interactive and fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The chowder will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of potatoes may change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chowder gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick. Microwave reheating works too, but stirring halfway through is a must for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh corn kernels work wonderfully in this recipe and add a lovely, sweet crunch. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to about 3 cups for two bags’ worth of frozen corn.

What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream?

If you prefer a lighter chowder, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the soup will be less creamy and rich. For dairy-free options, coconut milk adds a lovely creaminess with a subtle sweetness.

How do I make this chowder vegetarian?

Simply swap the turkey for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or additional potatoes and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding beans can also boost the protein content.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this chowder on the stovetop in a large pot. Simmer the ingredients over medium-low heat until the potatoes are tender, then stir in the cream and turkey. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Is the Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely! It stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for preparing a delicious meal in advance. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy it on busy days without sacrificing flavor or comfort.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe to make your day feel a little cozier and a lot tastier. Whether you’re tackling leftovers or craving a satisfying home-cooked meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Dive in with your favorite toppings and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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