Description

This Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon is a rich and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet corn, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon all meld together in a creamy, buttery sauce that’s lightly seasoned with garlic powder and paprika. The slow cooker does all the work, making this dish both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Whether you're serving it at a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual barbecue, this dish is sure to be a hit

Ingredients

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

Preparation Method

Prepare the Ingredients:
Cook the Bacon: Begin by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Once it has cooled slightly, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside.

Shred the Cheese: Shred the sharp cheddar cheese and set it aside.

Assemble the Dish:
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In a slow cooker, combine the frozen corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, heavy cream, melted butter, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir the mixture again to incorporate the seasonings thoroughly.

Cook:
Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. During cooking, stir the mixture occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking to the sides of the slow cooker and to ensure even cooking.
Serve:
Final Stir and Adjust Seasoning: Once the cooking time is complete, give the corn mixture one final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a pop of color and a touch of fresh flavor. Serve the Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon hot, and enjoy its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Tips and Conclusion

Tip
For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick, or mix in some diced jalapeños for a bit of heat. If you prefer a smokier flavor, try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.

Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon is a decadent and comforting side dish that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet corn makes it a perfect complement to a wide variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to holiday roasts. The slow cooker method ensures that the dish is hands-off and stress-free, allowing you to focus on other elements of your meal. Serve this at your next gathering and watch it disappear quickly—it’s sure to become a favorite!