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Creamy Shrimp Chowder

Creamy Shrimp Chowder

Creamy Shrimp Chowder is a comforting and flavorful soup featuring tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, and a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy meals any time of year, this chowder combines fresh shrimp, potatoes, aromatics, and cream to deliver a smooth, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Vegetables

  • 1 lb fresh peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 2 cups Yukon Gold or red potatoes, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Broth and Cream

  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or seafood broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Fats and Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion, celery, and garlic until softened and fragrant, creating the flavor foundation of the chowder.
  2. Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes along with fresh thyme and bay leaves. Pour in the broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Incorporate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot when the potatoes are nearly done. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 4 minutes, ensuring they stay tender.
  4. Finish with Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Warm the chowder gently without boiling, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Adjust seasoning as needed. For extra thickness, mash some potatoes or stir in a small cornstarch slurry briefly on low heat.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture—add shrimp near the end of cooking.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to balance salt and spices perfectly.
  • Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes to hold their shape during cooking.
  • Simmer gently after adding cream to prevent curdling or separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp chowder, creamy shrimp soup, seafood chowder, comfort food, easy shrimp recipe, chowder recipe