Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Chowder Recipe

Cook Time: 300 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe serves 6. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically if you scale the recipe, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Note: not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 (28 ounce) bag frozen O'Brien hash brown potatoes
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of celery soup
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (1-ounce) package dry ranch dressing mix
• 1 (3-ounce) bag bacon bits, divided
• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Combine the frozen hash browns, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, ranch dressing packet, and 1/2 cup of bacon bits in your slow cooker. Stir well to blend the ingredients evenly.
2. Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours.
3. After cooking, remove the lid and mash the potatoes to your preferred consistency, or leave them as they are for a lighter, chunkier chowder.
4. Add the cream cheese to the slow cooker, cover again, and cook for an additional 1 hour.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve the chowder in bowls, garnishing each portion with shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and the remaining bacon bits.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 692
• Total Fat: 49g (63% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 16g (80% DV)
• Cholesterol: 63mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 1891mg (82% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 48g (18% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (19% DV)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 17g (33% DV)
• Vitamin C: 9mg (10% DV)
• Calcium: 248mg (19% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (7% DV)
• Potassium: 672mg (14% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual values may vary. Consult a doctor or dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

The Story Behind Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Chowder

Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Chowder has its roots in traditional American comfort food, particularly in the colder regions of the United States where hearty, warming soups have been a staple for centuries. Potatoes, a versatile and widely available ingredient, became the base for numerous regional chowders, often combined with dairy and bacon for richness. This dish, evolving from simple potato soups in the 19th century, gained popularity in the mid-20th century with the advent of convenience foods such as canned soups and pre-cooked bacon, allowing home cooks to create a luxurious chowder with minimal effort.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

Different regions have put their own spin on loaded potato chowder. In the Midwest, it often includes cream cheese and cheddar, giving it a thicker and creamier consistency. In New England, a chowder may feature clams or other seafood, highlighting the coastal influence. Southern variations sometimes add a hint of smoked paprika or hot sauce, infusing the dish with extra warmth. Despite these differences, the core ingredientspotatoes, cheese, bacon, and a creamy baseremain consistent, making it recognizable across regions.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

While similar to classic potato soup or baked potato soup, loaded potato chowder distinguishes itself by its texture and layering of flavors. Unlike standard potato soup, which may be smooth or pureed, chowder often combines mashed and chunked potatoes for a heartier bite. The "loaded" aspect refers to toppings like cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions, which mimic the toppings of a baked potato, giving the soup a rich and indulgent profile. This contrasts with simpler, unadorned potato soups found in traditional recipes.

Where It's Typically Served

Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Chowder is a popular choice for casual family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. Its ease of preparation in a slow cooker makes it ideal for busy households, while its comforting flavor profile suits colder weather. It is often served in bowls with a side of crusty bread or crackers, and garnished generously with cheese, bacon, and green onions, making it visually appealing as well as satisfying.

Interesting Facts About the Dish

• The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld over several hours, resulting in a depth of taste that stovetop cooking cant always achieve.
• The combination of cream cheese and cheddar gives the chowder a velvety texture that is uniquely American.
• Despite its indulgent ingredients, the dish can be adapted for lighter versions by using low-fat cheese or substituting some of the cream with milk.
• The loaded concept mirrors the classic American loaded baked potato, showing how culinary creativity often transforms a familiar dish into a comforting soup.
• Many home cooks find that this chowder tastes even better the next day, as resting allows the flavors to intensify.

Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Chowder is more than just a soupit is a reflection of regional American tastes, a celebration of hearty ingredients, and a modern twist on a timeless comfort food tradition.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Chowder Recipe

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