As the weather cools down and the holiday season approaches, the desire for warm, comforting meals grows. A perfect dish to satisfy this craving is Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder.
Not only does it have the rich, hearty flavors perfect for a cold day, but it also serves as a delightful solution to repurposing leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving feast.
Creating this delicious chowder involves combining tender turkey, colorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth in your slow cooker. The low and slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a satisfying, flavorful meal. The best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work, so you can spend your day enjoying other activities or relaxing.
In this article, you will discover simple steps and expert tips to make your Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking for a new, cozy weeknight dish, this chowder recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your home.
Key Ingredients of Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder
The success of your Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder lies in the careful selection and combination of its key ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at these essential components and how they’ll come together in your slow cooker.
Turkey: Using cooked, shredded turkey, preferably leftover from a previous meal, adds both flavor and texture to your chowder. Not only does it provide a satisfying protein source, but it also imparts a subtle, rich taste that plays well with the other ingredients.
Potatoes: Diced potatoes form the heart of this comforting dish. Opt for a waxy variety like Yukon Gold to ensure they hold their shape and texture during the long, slow cooking process.
Carrots: Fresh, chopped carrots not only add color but also contribute a hint of natural sweetness that balances the chowder’s flavors. Thinly slice them to ensure they cook through and can be easily enjoyed with each spoonful.
Onion: A finely diced onion offers a savory note to your chowder, while blending seamlessly with the other ingredients. Choose a yellow or white onion for the best results in this recipe.
Bacon: Crispy, cooked bacon lends a delightful smokiness to the chowder. Use it sparingly, though, to ensure the other flavors aren’t overpowered. Chop it into small pieces for the perfect garnish.
Chicken broth: Chicken broth serves as the primary liquid for your Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder. It gives a full-bodied, savory foundation on which the other flavors can build. Opt for a sodium-reduced variety, and adjust the salt in your recipe accordingly.
Corn: Adding a can of whole kernel corn brings natural sweetness and texture to your dish. Be sure to drain it well before adding it to the slow cooker.
Heavy cream: To give your chowder a rich, creamy finish, pour in a little heavy cream near the end of the cooking process. This adds silky smoothness without diluting the other flavors.
Seasonings: The spices and herbs in this chowder help to create the perfect harmony of flavors. You’ll need salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried thyme, and minced garlic to season your dish. Feel free to adjust these to your taste.
Water: A small amount of water may be needed to reach the desired consistency of your chowder. Add it sparingly and adjust as necessary.
With these key ingredients carefully prepared and combined in your slow cooker, you’re on your way to enjoying a rich, satisfying, and flavorful Turkey Chowder in no time.
Nutritional Value of the Chowder
Analysis of Core Nutrients
Calories: A serving of this Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder contains approximately 250-300 calories. As a comparison, this is relatively low for a soup or chowder and can fit well within your daily caloric intake.
Fat & Saturated Fat: This chowder offers a moderate amount of fat, containing 8-12 grams of fat per serving. The saturated fat content is fairly low at approximately 2-3 grams per serving, which makes it a suitable choice for those watching their saturated fat intake.
Protein: Each serving of this delicious chowder contains 15-20 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of protein. This can help you maintain and build muscle mass, contributing to a well-balanced diet.
Carbohydrates: In one serving of this chowder, you will consume roughly 20-25 grams of carbohydrates. This quantity contributes to your daily energy needs and can help to balance your overall macronutrient ratio.
Fiber & Cholesterol: The chowder contains about 4 grams of fiber and minimal cholesterol per serving. The fiber content aids digestion and supports cardiovascular health, while the low cholesterol content can help you maintain healthy blood cholesterol levels.
Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content in this chowder, which can vary between 600-800 milligrams per serving. If you need to limit your sodium intake, consider adjusting the recipe accordingly.
Understanding the Vitamin and Mineral Content
Nutrient
Value per serving
Benefits
Vitamin A
Approx. 1500-2000 IU
Supports eye and skin health
Vitamin C
Approx. 15-20 mg
Strengthens immune system
Calcium
Approx. 100-150 mg
Promotes strong bones
Iron
Approx. 2-3 mg
Important for blood health
Potassium
Approx. 400-500 mg
Aids in muscle function
Your Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder is a delicious and nutrient-dense choice, providing an array of vitamins and minerals in addition to the aforementioned macronutrients. Vitamin A and C offer immune-boosting properties, while calcium and iron contribute to strong bones and blood health. Lastly, potassium is crucial for proper muscle function, further enhancing the chowder’s nutritional profile.
Steps to Cook Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder
How to Prepare Ingredients
Before starting the cooking process, make sure to gather all ingredients you need for your Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder recipe. Prepare your leftover turkey by cutting or shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Next, measure out the proper amounts of the following ingredients:
Cornstarch
Oil
Butter
Then, chop any fresh vegetables and herbs needed for the recipe, such as onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. If using canned or frozen ingredients, ensure they are properly drained or thawed.
Cooking Procedure
Start by heating a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots, and sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker and add your leftover turkey to the mix.
Pour in your preferred broth and add any additional seasonings or herbs as desired.
To create a thicker chowder, mix some cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the slow cooker while stirring to avoid clumps.
Set your slow cooker to low heat and allow it to cook for 6-8 hours, or if you prefer a faster cooking time, set it to high heat and cook for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before the end of the cook time, consider melting some butter in a small saucepan and then gradually stirring in optional cream or your preferred milk substitute. This will add a rich and creamy texture to your chowder.
Freezing and Reheating Guidelines
If you have leftover chowder or want to save some for a future meal, follow these guidelines for freezing and reheating your Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder:
Allow the chowder to cool completely before handling.
Transfer the chowder to an airtight container or a freezer-safe resealable bag.
Make sure to label the container or bag with the name of the recipe and current date.
Freeze the chowder for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Turkey Chowder, simply follow these steps to reheat:
Thaw the chowder in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Once the chowder is thawed, transfer it to a saucepan and heat it gently over low to medium heat.
To revive the creaminess and texture of the chowder, consider adding a splash of milk or cream during the reheating process.
Now, you’re ready to make your very own Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder! Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!
Variations and Tips for Turkey Chowder
Using Different Types of Potatoes and Corn
When making your Turkey Chowder, you might be wondering which type of potatoes and corn to use. Here are some suggestions:
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes offer a buttery flavor and smooth texture, making them perfect for chowders. However, you can also use Russet potatoes, which have a higher starch content, giving the chowder a slightly thicker consistency. Red potatoes can be used for a firmer texture and added color.
Potatoes
Flavor/Texture
Yukon Gold
Buttery flavor, smooth texture
Russet
Higher starch content, thicker consistency
Red
Firmer texture, added color
Corn: You have several options when it comes to adding corn to your chowder – whole kernel corn, frozen corn, or canned corn. Whole kernel corn will give a fresh taste, while frozen corn is convenient and retains most of its nutrients. Canned corn is a quick option, but be cautious of added sugar or sodium.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a slow cooker or prefer other cooking methods, don’t worry! Your Turkey Chowder can also be made using an Instant Pot or on your stovetop.
Instant Pot: To use your Instant Pot, set it to the Sauté function and add the necessary ingredients, following the recipe’s steps accordingly. Close the lid, set the pressure release valve to “sealed,” and cook on High Pressure mode. Be sure to reduce the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes. Quick-release the pressure when done.
Stovetop: For a stovetop method, simply follow the recipe and cook the chowder in a large pot over medium heat. Keep in mind that it will take longer – around 45 minutes to an hour – to achieve a rich, fully developed flavor.
Adding More Flavor and Texture
To further enhance your Turkey Chowder, consider incorporating additional seasonings, spices, and textures:
Green onions – You can add chopped green onions as a garnish to add both color and a mild onion flavor.
Celery – If you enjoy the flavor of celery, it can be cooked in the chowder for added crunch and taste.
Pepper – For a spicy kick, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your chowder.
Cheese – To achieve a creamy, indulgent dish, consider stirring in shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite Turkey Chowder version.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for a turkey chowder recipe?
For a turkey chowder recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients: cooked turkey, potatoes, onions, celery, carrots, corn, chicken or turkey broth, milk or cream, and seasonings such as thyme, parsley, and salt and pepper. Some recipes also call for bacon, garlic, and additional vegetables like bell peppers.
How long should turkey chowder cook in a slow cooker?
To make a slow cooker turkey chowder, cook the ingredients on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender. Be sure to stir the chowder occasionally during the cooking process to ensure even cooking.
Can leftover turkey be used in a chowder recipe?
Yes, leftover turkey is perfect for making turkey chowder. This is a great way to repurpose your leftover holiday turkey or any other cooked turkey you have on hand. Just make sure that the turkey is properly stored and hasn’t been sitting in the fridge for too long before adding it to your chowder.
What variations can be made to a basic turkey chowder?
You can easily modify your turkey chowder recipe to suit your preferences. For a creamy chowder, add more milk or cream; for a thinner, broth-based chowder, increase the amount of chicken or turkey broth. You can also add different vegetables (such as peas or green beans) and seasonings (like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika) for a unique spin on the classic recipe.
How can I add more flavor to my turkey chowder?
To enhance the flavors of your turkey chowder, consider sautéing the onions, celery, and carrots before adding them to the slow cooker. You can also add bacon or ham to the recipe for a smoky, salty touch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a chowder that suits your taste buds.
What is the best way to store and reheat leftover turkey chowder?
Store leftover turkey chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either use a microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even reheating. Avoid boiling the chowder, as this can cause it to separate or become too thick.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
