Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon is a rich, creamy, and cheesy side dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. Sweet corn is slow-cooked in a decadent cheddar cheese sauce, infused with crispy bacon, and finished with a touch of cream for an irresistible bite. The slow cooker does all the work, making this an easy, set-it-and-forget-it dish that pairs beautifully with BBQ, roasted meats, or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

For the Slow Cooker Corn:

• 4 cups frozen corn (or fresh corn kernels)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Additional crispy bacon crumbles
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on a paper towel, then crumble into pieces.
2. Shred the cheddar cheese if using a block instead of pre-shredded cheese (freshly shredded melts better).
3. Cube the cream cheese to help it melt evenly.

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

1. Add the frozen corn to the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Add the butter, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the corn.
4. Pour in the heavy cream (or milk) to help create a smooth, creamy texture.
5. Reserve some bacon crumbles for garnish and add the rest into the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 1.5-2 hours.
2. Stir occasionally to ensure the cheeses melt evenly.
3. Once everything is melted and creamy, stir in the remaining bacon crumbles.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

1. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra shredded cheddar, crispy bacon, and fresh parsley or green onions.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Tips for the Best Cheddar Corn

✔ Use frozen or fresh corn – Frozen works great, but if using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob for extra sweetness.
✔ Don’t skip the cream cheese – It adds a luscious texture that makes this dish ultra-creamy.
✔ Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✔ Adjust the consistency – If the mixture is too thick, stir in a little more milk or cream before serving.
✔ Make it spicy – Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it extra cheesy – Add Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a gooey, cheesy blend.
• Try different meats – Swap bacon for cooked sausage crumbles or diced ham.
• Add some crunch – Stir in crispy fried onions before serving.
• Go dairy-free – Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes for a non-dairy version.
• Make it a full meal – Add shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish.

What to Serve with Cheddar Corn

This creamy, cheesy corn pairs perfectly with:

• BBQ meats (ribs, pulled pork, brisket)
• Grilled chicken or steak
• Burgers or sandwiches
• Holiday turkey or ham
• Southern-style biscuits or cornbread

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?

Yes! Drain and rinse two (15 oz) cans of corn, then follow the same instructions.

2. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Make it the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or slow cooker before serving.

4. Can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese, milk instead of heavy cream, and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Use freshly shredded cheese and stir occasionally while cooking to ensure an even melt.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon

✔ Easy to make – the slow cooker does the work!
✔ Super creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
✔ Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and holiday dinners
✔ Minimal prep, maximum flavor
✔ Great leftovers – reheats beautifully

Make this Slow Cooker Cheddar Corn with Bacon for your next gathering, and watch it disappear in no time! It’s a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish that everyone will love