Creamy Pumpkin Bacon Chowder for a Quick Cozy Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a creamier texture without adding dairy, you can mash a few of the cooked sweet potato cubes against the side of the slow cooker before serving.

This releases extra starch into the broth, thickening it further and creating a luxurious mouthfeel that complements the smoky bacon pieces perfectly without the need for additional fats or thickeners.

If you prefer a more pronounced smoky flavor, you can briefly sauté the bacon in a separate skillet before adding it to the slow cooker, though this is optional. This step renders out some of the excess fat and intensifies the bacon flavor, providing a crispier texture that contrasts well with the soft, tender sweet potatoes in the final bowl.

Variations

• Spicy Pumpkin Chowder: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the final stage of cooking to introduce a pleasant heat that cuts through the richness of the soup.
• Herb-Infused Chowder: Incorporate a tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or sage at the beginning of the cooking process to add an earthy, aromatic dimension that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a pot on the stovetop over low heat until steaming.

Allow the chowder to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring it to airtight containers. Properly stored, it will maintain its quality for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Ensure the containers are sealed tightly to prevent the absorption of other odors from the fridge, which can affect the delicate balance of the soup.

This chowder is an excellent candidate for making ahead of time as the flavors tend to deepen after resting in the refrigerator.

You can prepare the entire recipe a day in advance, allow it to cool, and store it as directed. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

Serving ideas

Serve the chowder piping hot in deep, pre-warmed bowls to maintain the temperature for longer. A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing the meal and adding a crunch that complements the soft texture of the sweet potatoes and the savory broth.

Consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired, though the soup is flavorful enough on its own.

The contrast of the bright green herbs against the orange hue of the pumpkin and potato base makes for an inviting presentation that highlights the rustic, homemade nature of this hearty slow cooker meal.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Creamy Pumpkin Bacon Chowder for a Quick Cozy Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 packet seasoning packet
• 4 cups vegetable broth

Instructions

1. Place the cubed sweet potatoes into the base of the slow cooker to ensure even cooking throughout the process.
2. Scatter the chopped bacon over the sweet potatoes, then sprinkle the contents of the seasoning packet evenly over the top.
3. Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until the potatoes are tender. Serve warm in bowls.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

8.5 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

13 g

Fiber

5 g

Sugar

7 g

Sodium

750 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.