Slow Cooker Sausage & Corn Chowder – A Hearty and Creamy Comfort Dish

On cool days, nothing beats the warmth of a hearty bowl of chowder. This Slow Cooker Sausage & Corn Chowder combines smoky sausage with sweet corn and tender potatoes in a creamy broth, creating the perfect comfort meal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. The result is a rich, flavorful chowder that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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With smoky paprika, garlic, and thyme adding depth, and the cream adding a luxurious texture, this chowder is a satisfying meal on its own. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort experience.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Sausage & Corn Chowder
This chowder is packed with flavor, thanks to the smoky sausage and the creamy base that brings everything together. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal when you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen. The combination of sweet corn, tender potatoes, and hearty sausage makes it filling, while the thyme and smoked paprika give it a comforting warmth.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 4g

This chowder is rich and creamy, making it a satisfying meal that’s perfect on its own or paired with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve this Slow Cooker Sausage & Corn Chowder with a slice of warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the creamy broth. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chowder, or you could pair it with a light white wine such as Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water with a hint of citrus to cut through the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chowder in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it has thickened too much, add a little chicken broth or water to loosen it. You can also freeze the chowder for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Fun Fact: The History of Chowder
Chowder originated from the fishing communities of New England, where it was traditionally made by combining the day’s catch with onions, potatoes, and cream. The word “chowder” is thought to come from the French word "chaudière," meaning a large cooking pot used by fishermen. Over time, the dish evolved and became popular in various forms around the world, with corn chowder becoming a staple in American kitchens.

Cooking Tips
Brown the Sausage for Flavor: Browning the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker helps to deepen its flavor and gives the chowder a richer taste.
Cut Even Potato Pieces: To ensure even cooking, try to cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces so they all cook at the same rate.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can use slightly less chicken broth, or if you like it thinner, add a little extra broth or cream.

Optional Variations
Make It Spicy: For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using a spicy sausage instead of a mild one.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. You can add extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to bulk up the chowder.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese at the end for an extra creamy, cheesy chowder.

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Slow Cooker Sausage & Corn Chowder Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
• 4 cups frozen corn kernels
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the frozen corn, diced potatoes, chicken broth, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
4. Stir in the browned sausage.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, until the chowder is heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

This Slow Cooker Sausage & Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a delicious meal for any occasion. Enjoy it with a warm slice of bread and savor the richness of this satisfying dish!