Slow Cooker Clam Chowder tastes amazing! The flavor is rich, and has just the right amount of clam flavor. With potatoes, bacon, and other yummy ingredients.
Cook bacon and set on a paper towel to drain. Set aside.
In the same pan, remove all but 2 tsp of the bacon fat. Add the butter to the pan, along with the onion and celery. Cook over med heat, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Meanwhile, add the potatoes, clams and their juice, thyme, garlic, salt, pepper, and broth to a slow cooker that is 4 qt size or larger.
Add the cooked onion/celery mixture to the crock.
Add ¾ of the cooked bacon, reserving the other ¼ for garnish.
Cook on Low for 3 hours, or until the potatoes are tender.
Whisk together the corn starch and half and half. Add to the slow cooker and stir. Turn heat to High and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through cook time.
Serve garnished with reserved bacon and chives, oyster crackers, or parsley.