As the chill of the Midwest winter sets in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of hearty chowder. My Slow Cooker Creamy Turkey Chowder is inspired by the rich, creamy soups that New England is famous for but adapted with a Midwestern twist using leftover turkey—a perfect use for those holiday leftovers. This dish is not only satisfying and warm but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy individuals who still crave a home-cooked meal.
This chowder pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crusty baguette or a side of cornbread to soak up the creamy goodness. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the chowder’s richness. Additionally, for a bit of extra comfort, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or even a light fruit compote for a touch of sweetness.
Slow Cooker Creamy Turkey Chowder
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
4 cups chicken or turkey broth
2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup frozen corn
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Preparation
Place the cooked turkey, broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, corn, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf in your slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and flour until smooth.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir the cream mixture into the chowder. Continue to cook on low until thickened.
Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative like unsweetened almond milk. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas or bell peppers, for added color and nutrition. If you prefer a thicker chowder, use an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup before adding the cream mixture. For an extra smoky flavor, incorporate some diced bacon or ham along with the turkey.