Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—nothing too fancy, just fresh and flavorful. I always reach for sweet corn, whether fresh or frozen, because that natural sweetness balances beautifully with sharp cheddar and smoky bacon. Choosing a good-quality cheddar makes a big difference; I like something aged enough to melt smoothly but still punchy in flavor. And bacon—well, it’s bacon! Crispy, salty, and the perfect contrast. If you’re watching salt intake, consider using turkey bacon or reducing added salt.
- 4 cups frozen sweet corn kernels (or 5 cups fresh corn cut from the cob)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For substitutions, you can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist or use cheddar alternatives like Monterey Jack or Gruyère if you prefer a milder cheese. And if bacon isn’t your thing, pancetta or smoked ham can offer similar smoky notes.
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble once cooled.
- Add the frozen or fresh corn to your slow cooker. No need to thaw if using frozen.
- Stir in the butter, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar and half the crumbled bacon. Cover again until the cheese melts.
- Give it a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve topped with the remaining bacon for that irresistible crunch.
I find that the slow cooker allows the flavors to develop slowly, creating a comforting, creamy texture that’s hard to beat. One tip from my restaurant kitchen days is to avoid lifting the lid too often—it lets heat escape and slows the cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
