Seafood Chowder

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seafood Chowder is a rich, creamy soup brimming with tender chunks of seafood and vegetables. The combination of fresh seafood, potatoes, and a savory broth makes for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl on a chilly evening or serving it as an appetizer for a special meal, this chowder is a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with flavor in every spoonful!

Ingredients

• 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, clams, or white fish), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic and Potatoes: Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the cubed potatoes and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
3. Add the Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add the Cream and Milk: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and whole milk. Add the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook the Seafood: Add the seafood to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and opaque. If you’re using shrimp, they should turn pink, and scallops or fish should flake easily with a fork.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika, as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and green onions (if desired), and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• blow up a few the vegetables before adding the broth.

• Use Different Seafood: Customize the chowder with your favorite seafood—lobster, crab, or mussels are great additions.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Corn Chowder: Add 1 cup of frozen corn for a slightly sweet and crunchy addition to the chowder.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter for a lighter version of the soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover seafood chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add extra milk or cream to adjust the consistency if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chowder ahead of time. The flavors will actually improve as it sits, but add the seafood just before serving to avoid overcooking it.

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works perfectly. Just thaw it before adding it to the chowder.

How do I prevent the chowder from being too thick?

If the chowder becomes too thick, add a bit more broth, milk, or cream to reach your desired consistency.

What should I serve with this seafood chowder?

Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or a simple vegetable dish for a complete meal.

Can I freeze this seafood chowder?

You can freeze the chowder, but it may change the texture of the seafood once reheated. If freezing, it’s best to freeze just the broth and vegetables, and add fresh seafood when reheating.

What kind of seafood works best for this chowder?

Shrimp, scallops, and firm white fish like cod or haddock are great options. You can also mix and match different types of seafood based on your preference.

Conclusion

Seafood Chowder is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the best of both land and sea. With tender seafood, creamy broth, and a mix of vegetables, this chowder makes for the perfect meal on a chilly day. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and packed with delicious flavors in every spoonful. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or an appetizer, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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