Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon: A Delicious Comfort Food
Oh, slow cookers, how I adore thee! They make cooking feel like a breeze, don’t they? One of my absolute favorite recipes that evokes warm, cozy vibes is Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon. This dish always takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and the aroma of comfort food wafted through the house. Whenever I whip this up, it feels like a warm hug from my childhood. Trust me; once you try this creamy, cheesy delight, you’ll want to make it a staple at your very own get-togethers!
Let’s be honest, bacon makes everything better! And when paired with cheddar cheese, corn, and a few other simple ingredients, it becomes an irresistible side dish that’ll have everyone raving. Whether it’s for a summer BBQ, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy dinner at home, this Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn is a surefire hit! Let’s dive into the delicious details, shall we?
What’s in Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon?
Here’s the rundown of ingredients that make this dish creamy, cheesy, and absolutely divine:
– 4 cups frozen corn (about 2 bags): Frozen corn is so convenient! It’s the star of the show; you can use it straight from the freezer, and it cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a nice kick and richness to the dish. I prefer purchasing a block of cheese and shredding it myself for that fresh flavor.
– 1 cup cream cheese, cubed: The cream cheese adds a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the corn, making this dish luscious and dreamy.
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise: An unexpected ingredient, sure! But it gives the dish a silky smoothness. I use Duke’s mayonnaise because I’m a firm believer that it’s the best!
– 1/2 cup diced onion: The diced onion gives a lovely crunch and a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (plus more for garnish): What’s better than crispy bacon? We all know bacon makes everything taste a little more exciting! Plus, who doesn’t love more bacon on top?
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount to add flavor without overwhelming the subtle taste of the corn.
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better.
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste): Always taste as you go! Adjust based on your preference for saltiness.
Is Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health for a moment. This Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn is a delightful treat but also has some health perks that you might appreciate.
– It’s packed with nutrients from corn, such as fiber and essential vitamins, which can be beneficial for digestion. Yay for all of our digestive systems!
– The onion adds a boost of antioxidants, and the bacon gives protein and flavor—just try to go for nitrate-free bacon if you’re making it often. I know, I know…bacon, health benefits?
Of course, it’s essential to enjoy it in moderation, especially since the cream cheese and mayonnaise can be a bit rich. If you wanted to lighten it up, you could substitute low-fat cream cheese, but who are we kidding? We’re living life here, and sometimes you need that creamy goodness.
Ingredients List
– 4 cups frozen corn (about 2 bags)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cream cheese, cubed
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (plus more for garnish)
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt (to taste)
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon?
1. Start by grabbing your trusty slow cooker. In it, combine the frozen corn, cream cheese, mayonnaise, diced onion, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Gently stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined. I like to imagine I’m stirring a magic potion; who knew making comfort food could be so enchanting?
3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 4-6 hours, or until the corn is heated through and the cream cheese has melted into a velvety embrace.
4. When the time is up, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it’s well combined and melted. That ooey-gooey goodness is hard to resist!
5. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of additional crumbled bacon for that extra crunch and flavor.
Delicious Tips for Cheddar Corn Success
– For an added burst of flavor, consider drizzling a little extra bacon grease into the mixture before cooking— *trust me; it’s heavenly!*
– This dish is a star at potlucks, but it also pairs well with grilled meats, making it a fantastic summer side.
– Feel free to make it your own! Toss in some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or even some chopped bell peppers for a pop of color.
As you embark on your journey to make this Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon, I hope you embrace the delightful process and savor every spoonful. After all, cooking is about creating memories, and I can’t wait for you to share yours! So, roll up those sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic. Make sure to come back and let me know how it turned out! Happy cooking!
