This Shrimp and Corn Chowder is a creamy delight packed with sweet corn and tender shrimp. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl on a chilly day!
I love how quick it is to whip up this chowder. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and the whole family devours it. Plus, it’s a tasty way to sneak in some veggies! 🌽🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp. If you’re looking for a different protein, crab or even diced chicken works well too.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and vibrant, but frozen works perfectly when fresh isn’t available. Canned corn can be used in a pinch, but try to drain it well.
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor from bacon, but turkey bacon or pancetta are good alternatives for a lighter option.
Potatoes: While I use regular potatoes for creaminess, you could swap in sweet potatoes for a different flavor and color.
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half is great. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free take. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Chowder?
Texture is key in creating that comforting chowder experience. After cooking the potatoes, you can lightly mash them to thicken the chowder without turning it into a puree. This keeps some chunky goodness while giving you a creamy base.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash.
- This creates creaminess, ensuring there are still lovely potato pieces to bite into.
- Make sure to keep stirring gently to incorporate the flavors but avoid over-mashing.
Pair this chowder with crusty bread for the perfect dipping experience. Enjoy your delicious bowl of comfort! 🌽🍤
How to Make Shrimp and Corn Chowder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chowder takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time, bringing the total to about 40 minutes. A reasonable time for such a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the butter to the pot with the bacon drippings. After it melts, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these over medium heat until the onion becomes soft and translucent, usually about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will smell fantastic!
3. Add Potatoes and Corn:
Now it’s time to stir in the diced potatoes and corn kernels. Give it a stir and let them cook together for about 2-3 minutes. This will help to bring out those sweet corn flavors!
4. Simmer the Chowder:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the potatoes are nice and tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
5. Thicken the Chowder:
To make the chowder creamy, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to lightly mash some of the potatoes right in the pot, leaving some chunky pieces for texture. This is what gives chowder its cozy thickness!
6. Add Cream and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and add the optional smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Season the chowder with salt and fresh black pepper to taste, making it just right for your palate.
7. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the pot and simmer until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them; they cook quite quickly!
8. Serve It Up:
Serve the chowder in warm bowls, topped with the crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley. This adds a lovely pop of color!
9. Enjoy:
Enjoy this comforting chowder with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It’s deliciously creamy, sweet, and full of flavor—perfect for any cold day!
This creamy chowder perfectly balances the sweetness of corn and the delicate flavor of shrimp, finished with crunchy bacon and fresh herbs for added color and taste. Enjoy your bowl of comfort! 🌽🍤
Can I Use Different Types of Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use fresh, frozen, or even pre-cooked shrimp. If using frozen, just be sure to thaw them completely first. If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end to warm through, as they don’t need to cook.
Can I Make This Chowder Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The coconut milk will add a unique flavor, but it complements the corn nicely!
How Do I Store Leftover Chowder?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed for desired consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Chowder?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like diced bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is tender.
