Shrimp Chowder Recipe

Shrimp Chowder is a warm, creamy, and comforting seafood soup that combines tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the kind of meal that instantly soothes the soul, especially on cool evenings.

The creamy texture and savory seafood flavor make every spoonful irresistible. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, Shrimp Chowder delivers a luxurious dining experience that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love Shrimp Chowder because it’s the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. It’s creamy without being too heavy, and the sweetness of shrimp blends beautifully with the savory notes of garlic, herbs, and butter.

The aroma as it simmers fills the kitchen with the most inviting scent. I also love that it’s a one-pot recipe — easy to make, easy to clean up, and always impressive when served.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Shrimp Chowder is a must-try because it’s simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious. It brings together the comforting creaminess of a classic chowder with the lightness of fresh seafood.

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make it — just shrimp, vegetables, and a few pantry staples. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can make it spicy, smoky, or extra creamy depending on your preference.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American / Coastal Seafood
• Course: Main Course / Soup

Ingredients

For the Chowder Base:

• 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 3 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening, optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrot in butter and oil until softened.
2. Add potatoes, corn, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in cream, then add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
4. Adjust seasoning, add lemon juice, and garnish with parsley.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Peel and devein shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with a paper towel, season lightly with salt and pepper, and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Add diced potatoes, corn, paprika, thyme, and Old Bay seasoning. Pour in seafood stock (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10–12 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Create Creamy Base

Whisk flour into a small amount of cream (optional for thickening), then stir it into the pot. Add the remaining cream and simmer gently for 3–5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp and cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in lemon juice for brightness and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the chowder into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread, oyster crackers, or garlic toast.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in soup bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
• Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or warm biscuits.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
• For a cozy presentation, serve it in bread bowls!

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use raw shrimp for the best texture — pre-cooked shrimp can turn rubbery.
• If the chowder is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
• Want extra richness? Add a small pat of butter before serving.
• Taste and adjust salt carefully — seafood stock can already be salty.
• For a smoky flavor, add a bit of smoked paprika or diced bacon to the base.

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp Chowder: Add ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning and a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheesy Shrimp Chowder: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving.
• Shrimp & Corn Chowder: Increase corn to 2 cups for a sweeter flavor.
• Low-Fat Version: Use milk instead of cream and skip the flour.
• Seafood Medley Chowder: Add crab meat, scallops, or small chunks of white fish.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze cooled chowder (without shrimp if possible) for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stove, adding cream and shrimp after thawing for best texture.

Reheating:

• Warm over medium-low heat. Do not boil — it can cause the cream to separate.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Ladle
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Whisk (for cream mixture)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before adding to the chowder.

Q2: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
A2: Yes, make the base ahead and add the shrimp just before serving to keep them tender.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
A3: Absolutely! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer for a rich, lactose-free version.

Q4: How do I make it thicker?
A4: Add 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cream, or mash some potatoes directly into the chowder.

Q5: Can I use leftover cooked shrimp?
A5: Yes, but add them at the very end and heat only until warm to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Shrimp Chowder is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a dish that brings the warmth of home cooking together with the elegance of seafood dining. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, it never fails to impress. The rich broth, tender shrimp, and wholesome vegetables make it both nourishing and indulgent. Once you try it, this Shrimp Chowder will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.