The salty air and cozy charm of coastal towns have long been known for some of the most comforting meals, and my Creamy Seafood Chowder captures that essence perfectly. Filled with tender shrimp, salmon, and flaky white fish enveloped in a luscious broth, this is truly a dish that warms the soul. With smoky bacon adding depth and richness, it transforms a busy weeknight into a delightful culinary escape. Not only is this chowder easy to whip up, but it also makes for a fantastic crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re craving a rich dinner or simply want to impress your guests, this chowder is sure to be a hit. Ready to dive into a bowl of scrumptious comfort? Let’s get started!
Why is this chowder a must-try?
Rich, Creamy Delight: This chowder is packed with velvety goodness that wraps around tender seafood, creating a luxurious dining experience at home.
Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can bring the taste of coastal towns to your kitchen, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving family or friends, this chowder is bound to be a showstopper, ensuring second helpings are a must!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the seafood based on what you have on hand. Shrimp, crab, or even clams all work beautifully together.
Perfect Pairing: This chowder is great on its own, but when served with homemade dinner rolls or delightful bacon cheddar scones, it truly turns into an unforgettable meal. Dive in and enjoy the comforting warmth!
Creamy Seafood Chowder Ingredients
For the Chowder Base
- Bacon or Pancetta – Adds smokiness and depth of flavor. Use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Onion – Provides a sweet and savory base. Shallots or leeks can be used as a substitute for a milder flavor.
- Celery – Adds crunch and a subtle earthiness. Wilted fresh herbs can be added for additional flavor.
- Carrot – Introduces sweetness and color. Omit if not preferred; adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor with a mild pungency. Fresh or powdered garlic both work well.
For the Seafood Mixture
- Mixed Seafood – Offers varied textures and flavors. Any combination of shrimp, crab, clams, mussels, or fish can be used.
- Potatoes – Provide body and heartiness. Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal; can replace with cauliflower for a low-carb option.
For Thickening and Flavor
- Flour – Thickens the chowder. Cornstarch or gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Seafood or Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful liquid base. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian version.
- White Wine – Adds acidity and complexity (optional). Replace with lemon juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy texture. Replace with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavor. Adjust to taste.
- Parsley – Adds freshness and color. Chives or dill can serve as alternatives.
- Thyme – Introduces a subtle herbaceous note (optional). Omit or swap with tarragon depending on preference.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Seafood Chowder
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables
Begin by cooking diced bacon or pancetta in a large pot over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until crispy. Remove the cooked bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Next, add diced onion, celery, and carrot to the pot, sautéing for about 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Sprinkle ¼ cup of flour over the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which should turn a light golden brown. This step helps thicken the Creamy Seafood Chowder, ensuring a rich and velvety texture. Make sure to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot as you stir.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of seafood or chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps in the mixture. Continue to whisk until the broth is fully incorporated, then bring the chowder base to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. If desired, add ½ cup of white wine for added depth and complexity, allowing it to simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
Once boiling, add 2 cups of diced potatoes to the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender. This step builds the hearty foundation of your Creamy Seafood Chowder, making it filling and satisfying.
Step 5: Add the Seafood
Stir in your choice of mixed seafood, such as shrimp, salmon, and white fish, in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Gently fold the seafood into the chowder, ensuring it cooks evenly and is just done. The seafood should appear opaque and firm when fully cooked, bringing the dish to life with its delicious textures and flavors.
Step 6: Finish the Chowder and Serve
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, making the chowder incredibly rich and creamy. Season your Creamy Seafood Chowder with salt, pepper, freshly chopped parsley, and thyme if using. Serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
What to Serve with Creamy Seafood Chowder
When the weather turns chilly, elevate your bowl of chowder with delightful accompaniments that enhance its richness and warmth.
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Homemade Dinner Rolls: These soft, buttery rolls are perfect for soaking up every drop of chowder, adding a satisfying texture alongside the creamy soup.
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Bacon Cheddar Scones: Savory and crumbly, these scones pack a punch with cheese and bacon that mirror the flavors of the chowder, creating a harmonious pairing.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chowder, providing a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, tender roasted asparagus sprinkled with lemon zest adds a touch of brightness to your meal, enhancing the seafood flavors.
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Crusty Baguette: A classic choice, serve slices of a crusty baguette alongside your chowder for a delightful crunch that complements its creaminess wonderfully.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with seafood chowder, offering crisp acidity that elevates the rich, savory notes in the dish.
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Chocolate Lava Cakes: To end the meal, serve warm chocolate lava cakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the sweetness perfectly balances the savory chowder.
By thoughtfully pairing these delicious sides and beverages, your creamy seafood chowder transforms into an unforgettable dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Seafood Chowder
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: You can freeze the chowder for up to 2 months, ensuring it’s in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion and defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much, ensuring your Creamy Seafood Chowder stays velvety and delicious.
Make-Ahead Tips: For a make-ahead convenience, follow the recipe up to adding the seafood, then freeze the base. Finish cooking with added seafood just before serving for optimal freshness.
Creamy Seafood Chowder Variations
Feel free to adapt this chowder recipe to match your preferences and pantry staples while keeping that cozy flavor intact.
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Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, tropical twist without the dairy. The subtle sweetness will elevate the chowder’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of seafood or chicken broth, swapping in hearty mushrooms and firm tofu for protein. This variation offers a satisfying, earthier version of the classic.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in some corn or bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch. These colorful additions will bring fresh brightness to every spoonful!
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Lightened Up: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream to lighten the dish without sacrificing creaminess. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl while keeping it a bit healthier!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chowder for a delightful heat that will warm you from the inside out. Start with a little; you can always add more if you crave extra warmth!
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Herb Garden: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, basil, or chives to create a unique flavor experience. Each herb will provide its own signature touch, making each bite feel special.
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Seafood Varieties: Switch out or mix your seafood selection with scallops or lobster for a more upscale twist on the classic chowder. Each variant will bring a new texture and taste that’s sure to impress.
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Savory Smoked Flavor: For a heartier taste, consider adding a teaspoon or two of smoked paprika. This addition pairs wonderfully with the seafood and offers a depth that’s nothing short of amazing.
With all these variations, your Creamy Seafood Chowder will never be the same twice. And if you’re in the mood for other comforting creations, don’t miss out on our Tomato White Bean or the delightful Crockpot Crack Chicken. Each recipe is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table!
Expert Tips for Creamy Seafood Chowder
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Prep Ahead: Make your chowder even easier by prepping ingredients in advance. Chop vegetables and measure out seafood ahead of time to save cooking time when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish.
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Thicker Texture: For a creamier texture, increase the roux by adding an extra tablespoon of flour. Remember to cook it a little longer to avoid a raw flour taste, ensuring your Creamy Seafood Chowder is luxuriously thick.
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Seafood Safety: If using frozen seafood, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained before adding to the chowder. This prevents excess water from diluting flavors and helps retain that desired tenderness.
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Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the seafood while it cooks. Overcooking will result in rubbery textures. Aim for just a few minutes until seafood turns opaque and is perfectly cooked in your chowder.
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Flavors Balance: Taste and adjust seasonings toward the end of cooking. A little more salt or pepper can enhance the overall depth of flavor in your Creamy Seafood Chowder, making it even more satisfying.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Seafood Chowder preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during their weeknight dinners! You can complete steps 1 through 4—preparing the bacon, sautéing the vegetables, making the roux, and cooking the potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the chowder base in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply reheat the mixture on the stove, then stir in your mixed seafood and heavy cream (steps 5 and 6), allowing it to gently simmer until the seafood is cooked through. This way, you’ll have flavorful comfort on the table without the last-minute rush, ensuring your Creamy Seafood Chowder is just as delicious!
Creamy Seafood Chowder Recipe FAQs
What kind of seafood should I use in my chowder?
Absolutely! You can personalize your chowder by using any combination of seafood you prefer. Popular choices include shrimp, salmon, crab, clams, and white fish. I often use a mix to capture varied textures and flavors, but you can also go with whatever is fresh or available to you.
How should I store leftovers of my creamy seafood chowder?
To keep your chowder fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep that rich creaminess intact.
Can I freeze creamy seafood chowder?
Yes, you can freeze your chowder for up to 2 months! Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder ends up being too thick for your liking, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more seafood or chicken broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and heat over low until it’s just right—creamy and delightful!
Is this chowder safe for people with seafood allergies?
This chowder is not recommended for anyone with seafood allergies, as it includes a variety of shellfish and fish. If you’re looking for a delicious alternative, you might want to consider using vegetables and a hearty vegetable broth instead to create a similar comforting experience without the seafood.
What type of potatoes work best in this chowder?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes are ideal for creaminess and heartiness. However, for a low-carb option, you can replace potatoes with cauliflower. If you choose to go this route, simply chop the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot in the same way as you would with potatoes. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Creamy Seafood Chowder: Your Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook diced bacon or pancetta in a large pot over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Add diced onion, celery, and carrot to the pot, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in seafood or chicken broth until fully incorporated and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add diced potatoes and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until tender.
- Stir in mixed seafood and gently fold to cook for 5-10 minutes until just done.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme if using. Serve hot.
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