This creamy shrimp and corn chowder is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and lots of tasty spices that make it comforting and filling.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up on a chilly day. Just grab some fresh shrimp and corn, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a savory richness to the chowder. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, you can use smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp brings great flavor, but frozen shrimp is just as convenient. If you’re allergic or want a non-seafood option, diced chicken or tofu can replace shrimp nicely.
Corn: Fresh or frozen corn can be used interchangeably. For a different taste, consider adding some roasted corn or even canned corn if you’re in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: This gives the chowder its creaminess but can be swapped with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a vegetarian chowder. It will still pack plenty of flavor!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Chowder?
Making a creamy chowder means you need to focus on texture, especially with potatoes and corn. Here’s how:
- Cook the diced potatoes until tender but not mushy; this allows them to hold their shape in the soup.
- Blend some of the mixture if you want a creamier consistency. Just scoop out a cup of chowder and blend it before stirring it back in.
- When adding shrimp, cook them just until they turn pink. Overcooking can make them tough.
Taking these steps will help you achieve a delicious chowder that feels just right on your taste buds!
How to Make Creamy Shrimp And Corn Chowder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or seafood seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, chopped
Time Needed:
This creamy chowder takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook, bringing your total time to around 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels. Keep the bacon fat in the pot—it’s packed with flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, celery, and red bell pepper into the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté these flavorful veggies for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and aromatic.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This will make your kitchen smell absolutely fantastic!
4. Make a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir to coat them. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to ensure the flour cooks off its raw taste.
5. Incorporate the Broth and Potatoes:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, being careful to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes to the mix and bring everything to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer until your potatoes are tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
6. Mix in Corn and Cream:
Now it’s time to add the corn kernels, heavy cream, dried thyme, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let it cook for another 5 minutes to let all those wonderful flavors meld together.
7. Add the Shrimp:
Finally, add the shrimp to the pot. Cook them just until they’re pink and fully cooked through—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Don’t overcook them, or they might turn tough!
8. Final Adjustments:
Taste your chowder and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your chowder hot, topped with those crispy bacon pieces and a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions. If you like, pair it with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious creamy shrimp and corn chowder!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Chowder?
Absolutely! Just make sure the shrimp are thawed before adding them to the chowder. You can thaw them quickly by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
How Can I Make This Chowder Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings since non-dairy milks have different flavor profiles.
What Should I Do with Leftover Chowder?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure it heats evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other veggies like diced carrots, peas, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just remember they may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
