If you are looking for the ultimate cozy comfort food to enjoy any day of the week, look no further than this Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with hearty chunks of tender turkey and sweet corn that make every spoonful a celebration. Using simple ingredients and the magic of slow cooking, this chowder transforms leftover turkey into a soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or a casual get-together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe stays true to simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the buttery base that sets a luscious foundation to the fresh potatoes that add delightful texture and body. The chicken broth brings depth, while the corn sweetens each bite. And of course, the leftover turkey is the star protein that makes this chowder a true meal.
- Butter: Adds a rich, creamy foundation to start the chowder with a silky smooth texture.
- Potatoes (5 pounds, peeled and cubed): Provide substance and comfort with a tender, hearty bite.
- Black pepper (½ tablespoon): Offers a subtle warmth and seasoning balance.
- Dried minced onion (½ tablespoon, optional): Delivers an extra savory note that gently enhances flavor.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): The savory liquid base that infuses the chowder with depth and richness.
- Frozen corn (2 bags, 10 ounces each): Sweet and crisp, it adds color and a natural pop of sweetness.
- Cornstarch (1 ½ tablespoons): Thickens the chowder creating that perfect creamy consistency.
- Heavy whipping cream (1 ½ pints): Contributes luxurious creaminess that makes every spoonful indulgent.
- Leftover shredded turkey (3-4 cups): The hearty, tender protein that turns this chowder into a fulfilling meal.
- Crumbled bacon: Provides a smoky crunch as a delightful garnish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for an irresistible cheesy finish.
- Green onions (sliced): Add freshness and a mild bite that brightens the chowder.
How to Make Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker Base
Start by placing the butter directly into the slow cooker. This butter is going to melt and mingle with the ingredients, creating a rich, luscious base that forms the heart of the chowder. It’s the first step toward building that creamy texture you’ll crave.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes
Next, add your peeled and cubed potatoes. These little chunks will cook low and slow, absorbing all the savory liquids around them and swelling into soft, tender morsels that create a comforting body in the chowder.
Step 3: Season and Add Liquids
Sprinkle in the black pepper and dried minced onion if you’re using it. Then pour in the chicken broth along with both bags of frozen corn. The broth brings a deep, savory flavor, while the corn adds a subtle natural sweetness and delightful texture contrast.
Step 4: Slow Cook on Low
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours, or high for 4 hours if you’re short on time. This slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the potatoes to soften perfectly in the broth.
Step 5: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth. This slurry will thicken your chowder and give it that satisfying, creamy consistency we all love in a chowder.
Step 6: Combine Cream and Slurry
Pour in the heavy whipping cream then stir in the cornstarch slurry. This step is where the chowder becomes decadently creamy and velvety, perfectly coating every piece of potato, corn, and turkey.
Step 7: Add Turkey
Fold in your shredded leftover turkey into the chowder. The turkey warms through and adds heartiness, turning this dish from a simple soup into a fulfilling, protein-packed meal.
Step 8: Final Slow Cooking
Put the lid back on and let everything cook together for another 30 minutes. This final cooking melds the cream and turkey flavors deeply and thickens the chowder to perfection.
Step 9: Garnish
Right before serving, sprinkle on crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. These garnishes add crunch, melty cheese goodness, and a fresh pop of color and bite.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe into bowls and serve it warm. Get ready to enjoy every comforting, creamy spoonful that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are where your chowder truly shines. Crumbled bacon lends a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Shredded cheddar cheese melts into the warm chowder for extra richness, and sliced green onions add a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that brightens each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this chowder with crusty bread or warm biscuits to soak up every drop, or complement it with a simple green salad to cut through the richness. A crisp apple slaw or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun, rustic feel. You can also top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor layers. For a crowd, present it buffet-style with plenty of garnishes to customize.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers to maintain freshness and to make reheating simple and convenient for busy days.
Freezing
While the chowder freezes well, the addition of cream means the texture might separate slightly upon thawing. To minimize this, freeze the chowder without the cream and add the cream fresh upon reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the chowder gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. If the chowder is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh corn will add a lovely brightness and a bit more crunch. Just cut the kernels off the cob and add them in at the same step you would the frozen corn.
Is it okay to use turkey broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, turkey broth works wonderfully and will enhance the turkey flavor in this chowder, making it even more hearty and flavorful.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
You can try half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the chowder won’t be quite as rich and creamy. Adding a little extra cornstarch can help maintain thickness.
How do I make this chowder vegetarian?
Skip the turkey and use vegetable broth. You can add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas to keep it filling and flavorful.
What if I don’t have cornstarch? Can I use flour instead?
Yes, you can create a flour slurry with the same amount of flour mixed in cold water to thicken the chowder. Just whisk it in gradually to avoid lumps.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Turkey Corn Chowder Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl and the perfect way to turn leftovers into a standout dinner. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for warming up any day. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love, just like I did!
