Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon: A Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible Side Dish

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a short list of easy-to-find ingredients that you may already have on hand:

✅ 4 Cups Frozen Corn Kernels

• No need to thaw—just toss them in straight from the bag.
• You can substitute with canned (drained) or fresh corn as well.

✅ 1 Cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

• Sharp cheddar adds bold, tangy flavor.
• Feel free to use medium cheddar or even a blend with Monterey Jack or Colby.

✅ 6 Slices Cooked Bacon, Crumbled

• Cook until crispy for the best texture.
• Adds smokiness, crunch, and a rich savory depth.

✅ ½ Cup Heavy Cream

• Makes the dish silky and luxurious.
• You can substitute half-and-half, but the result will be slightly less creamy.

✅ ¼ Cup Unsalted Butter, Melted

• Adds richness and helps bring the mixture together.

✅ ¼ Teaspoon Garlic Powder

• Adds a subtle savory background note.

✅ ¼ Teaspoon Paprika

• Enhances the color and adds a mild smoky warmth.

✅ Salt and Pepper, to Taste

• Start light and adjust once everything’s cooked.

✅ Optional: 2 Tablespoons Fresh Chopped Parsley

• For a pop of color and freshness just before serving.

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make this recipe—just some slow cooker staples:

• Slow cooker (3–6 quart capacity)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding your own)
• Skillet (for cooking bacon)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

🔪 Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain and crumble.
• Shred the cheddar cheese (if not using pre-shredded).
• Measure out remaining ingredients and set aside.

🍲 Step 2: Combine in Slow Cooker

Add the following to your slow cooker:

• 4 cups frozen corn
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• Crumbled bacon
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika

Give everything a good stir to distribute evenly.

🧂 Step 3: Season

• Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir again to ensure seasonings are evenly spread.

⏲️ Step 4: Slow Cook

• Low for 4 hours or High for 2 hours.
• Stir once or twice during cooking to avoid cheese sticking to the sides.

🌿 Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Give it a final stir and taste for seasoning.
• Top with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent full melting.
• Don’t skip the butter. It helps emulsify the sauce and adds richness.
• Cook bacon until crispy. Soggy bacon will get lost in the mix.
• Use a liner or spray your slow cooker for easier cleanup.
• Taste before serving. Corn can be naturally sweet, so adjusting salt is key.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Want to customize your cheddar corn? Here are some delicious variations:

🔥 Spice It Up

• Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for deeper flavor.

🧄 Amp the Savory

• Add sautéed onions or shallots.
• Mix in roasted garlic or garlic paste.

🧀 Switch Up the Cheese

• Use pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Gouda, Havarti, or cream cheese make it ultra-creamy.

🥦 Add Vegetables

• Stir in chopped spinach, broccoli florets, or bell peppers.

🥓 More Bacon!

• Double the bacon for a meatier bite.
• Add bacon bits right before serving for extra crunch.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips

🕒 Make-Ahead

• Assemble everything (except bacon) in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
• Cook the bacon fresh for the best texture, then stir it in before serving.

🧊 Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🔁 Reheating

• Reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• You can also warm it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream.

❄️ Freezing

• This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream and cheese—it may separate upon thawing. Best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve with Cheddar Corn and Bacon

This cheesy corn dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains:

🥩 Meats:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Roast pork or pork chops
• BBQ ribs or pulled pork
• Roast turkey or rotisserie chicken

🍞 Breads:

• Cornbread
• Dinner rolls
• Garlic toast

🥗 Salads:

• Garden salad
• Cucumber and tomato salad
• Creamy coleslaw

🍳 Brunch Pairing:

• Eggs and bacon
• Hash browns
• Breakfast casserole

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using Low-Fat Dairy

• Stick with heavy cream for the best texture and flavor.

❌ Not Stirring

• Stir at least once mid-cook to prevent cheese from sticking or burning.

❌ Overcooking

• Cooking too long on high may dry out the cream or overcook the corn.

❌ Skipping Seasoning

• Corn can be bland without enough salt. Taste before serving and adjust.

❌ Using Soggy Bacon

• Always cook your bacon crispy! It’ll hold up better during slow cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen?

Yes. Just drain canned corn well and use the same amount.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can make it spicy by adding chili flakes or jalapeños.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the bacon and consider adding smoked paprika for depth.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough (at least 6 quarts).

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the dish may be thinner and less rich. Use whole milk for best results.

Nutrition Breakdown

(Per Serving – Approx. 8 servings)

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg

Nutrition may vary depending on brands and optional ingredients.

Printable Recipe Card

Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hours (Low) or 2 hours (High)

Ingredients:

• 4 cups frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook and crumble bacon. Shred cheese.
2. Add all ingredients to slow cooker. Stir well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.
5. Stir once or twice while cooking.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with parsley before serving (optional).

Final Thoughts: A Side Dish Worth Repeating

From its creamy texture to its rich, cheesy flavor and crispy bacon topping, Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon is the side dish that keeps people coming back for seconds. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for the holidays—and with just a few minutes of prep and a handful of ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Next time you’re looking to impress your guests or treat your family to something hearty and comforting, let your slow cooker work its magic with this irresistible dish.