Shrimp Chowder: A Comforting, Flavorful Bowl of Goodness
Shrimp chowder is a rich and creamy soup that brings together tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables in a velvety broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you crave a bowl of comfort, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.
This step-by-step guide will help you create a shrimp chowder that tastes like it came straight from a coastal kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The creamy base is luxurious without being overpowering.
- Loaded with Flavor: Fresh shrimp, aromatic spices, and savory vegetables create a perfectly balanced dish.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this chowder is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- Shrimp: 1 lb (peeled, deveined, and tails removed)
- Butter: 3 tbsp
- Bacon: 4 slices, diced (optional, for added smokiness)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Flour: 3 tbsp (for thickening)
For the Broth:
- Seafood or chicken stock: 4 cups
- Heavy cream: 1½ cups
- Potatoes: 2 large, peeled and diced
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Bay leaf: 1
- Old Bay seasoning: 1 tsp (or to taste)
- Paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped parsley: 2 tbsp
- Chopped green onions: 2 tbsp
- Crusty bread or oyster crackers: Optional, for serving