A creamy, smoky, and irresistibly cheesy side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and cozy family dinners.
Introduction
There’s something magical about the combination of sweet corn, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon—especially when it’s slow-cooked to velvety perfection. This Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The slow cooker does most of the work, melding the ingredients into a rich, comforting dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or a holiday feast, this recipe is guaranteed to earn rave reviews.
The Science & Culinary Techniques
- Slow Cooking Magic: The low, steady heat of a slow cooker allows the corn’s natural sugars to develop, while the cheese melts evenly without breaking (thanks to the stabilizing effect of the cream cheese).
- Bacon Fat = Flavor Base: Cooking the aromatics (onion, garlic) in reserved bacon fat deepens the savory notes.
- Preventing Grainy Cheese: Adding cheese off the heat (or at the very end) prevents it from seizing up or becoming gritty.
Ingredients & Substitutions
(Serves 6–8 as a side dish)
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups frozen corn kernels (or 4 cans drained corn, or 6–7 fresh ears, kernels sliced off)
- 8 oz bacon, chopped (reserve 1 tbsp fat)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
- 4 oz cream cheese, cubed (softened for smoother blending)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika + ¼ tsp liquid smoke)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, enhances sweetness of corn)
Optional Add-Ins/Toppings
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- ½ cup diced jalapeños (for heat)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (for umami depth)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (for crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy (8–10 mins).
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving 1 tbsp fat in the pan.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, cook onion in bacon fat until soft (3–4 mins).
- Add garlic, cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Slow Cooker Assembly
- Add corn, onion/garlic mixture, heavy cream, cream cheese, paprika, pepper, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours(or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours), stirring occasionally.
4. Add Cheese & Bacon
- Turn off heat. Stir in cheddar cheeseuntil melted.
- Fold in half the bacon.
5. Serve
- Garnish with remaining bacon, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika.
Pro Tips
- ✔ Avoid Overcooking: Cheese can break if heated too long—add it last.
- ✔ Thicken It Up: If too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, stir in, and heat 10 mins.
- ✔ Fresh Corn Hack: If using fresh corn, blanch kernels first for extra sweetness.
Troubleshooting
- Too Thin? Simmer uncovered 15–30 mins or add a slurry (cornstarch + water).
- Too Thick? Stir in ¼ cup milk or broth.
- Cheese Clumping? Shred your own cheese (pre-shredded has anti-caking agents).
Creative Variations
- Spicy Southwest: Add 1 tsp cumin + 1 can diced green chiles.
- Loaded Potato Style: Mix in 1 cup diced potatoes + top with sour cream.
- Vegetarian: Skip bacon, use smoked salt + 1 tbsp butter for richness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair With: Grilled chicken, ribs, or holiday ham.
- As a Dip: Serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread.
- Meal Upgrade: Top with a fried egg for a hearty brunch.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Baconis the ultimate comfort food—creamy, smoky, and packed with crowd-pleasing flavor. With minimal prep and foolproof slow-cooking, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. So grab your slow cooker, let it work its magic, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
Hungry for more? Try adding crab meat for a luxurious twist, or swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra kick. Happy cooking!