The Ultimate Creamy Shrimp Chowder Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Sailing through culinary waves, this creamy shrimp chowder promises a comforting embrace on chilly evenings.

Seafood lovers will adore the rich, velvety texture that hugs each tender morsel of succulent shrimp.

Coastal memories dance with every spoonful, transporting you to seaside memories.

Chunks of potato mingle with sweet prawns, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Cream and broth blend into a luxurious base that whispers maritime stories.

Warm and inviting, this chowder feels like a loving hug from the ocean.

Savor each spoonful and let the magic of maritime cuisine sweep you away.

FAQs

• What type of shrimp works best for this chowder?

Medium or large raw shrimp are ideal. Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and make preparation easier.

• Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly. Thaw them completely and pat dry before adding to the chowder to prevent excess water.

• Is this chowder gluten-free?

Not automatically. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch if thickening is needed, and check that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

• How can I make the chowder more creamy?

Add an extra splash of heavy cream or increase the milk quantity. You can also blend a small portion of the potatoes to create a thicker, creamier texture.

Shrimp Chowder Special Comforts in a Bowl

• Comfort in a Bowl: Dive into a warm, creamy shrimp chowder that wraps you in pure comfort, perfect for soothing any hunger or mood.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Whip up this delightful dish in just a few simple steps, making it an ideal solution for busy home cooks craving something delicious.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Packed with tender shrimp, hearty vegetables, and a rich cheesy base, this chowder appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
• Versatile Meal Champion: Equally awesome as a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive starter for gatherings, this chowder adapts to any dining occasion with effortless charm.

Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Chowder at Home

• Shrimp: Fresh seafood that provides the primary protein and signature flavor for this creamy chowder.
• Milk: Creamy base that gives the chowder its rich and smooth texture.
• Potatoes: Hearty vegetable that adds substance and helps thicken the chowder.

• Onions, Celery: Foundational vegetables that create a deep, savory flavor base for the chowder.
• Garlic Powder, Celery Salt: Seasoning blend that enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the other ingredients.

• Swiss Cheese, Cheddar Cheese: Melting cheeses that add richness, depth, and a creamy texture to the chowder.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that provides a fresh garnish and subtle herbal notes.

• Butter: Fat used for sautéing vegetables and adding richness to the chowder.
• Boiling Water: Liquid used to cook and soften the vegetables.

Step-by-Step for Making Shrimp Chowder Quickly

Step 1: Sizzle Aromatics

Melt butter in a spacious cooking pot over medium warmth.

Toss in diced onions and let them dance and soften without turning golden brown.

The kitchen will start filling with a delightful fragrance.

Step 2: Build Flavor Foundation

• Chopped celery
• Potato chunks
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Celery salt
• Boiling water

Simmer everything together on medium heat for approximately 15 minutes.

Watch the potatoes transform into tender, delectable bites.

Step 3: Welcome Creamy Proteins

Lower the heat to a gentle medium-low.

Carefully pour in milk and slide the shrimp into the bubbling mixture.

Allow everything to cuddle and warm together, stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turn perfectly pink and plump.

Step 4: Create Cheesy Harmony

• Shredded Swiss cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Freshly chopped parsley

Fold the ingredients gently, watching the cheeses melt and blend into a luxurious, creamy consistency.

Step 5: Plate With Passion

Ladle the steaming chowder into cozy bowls.

Garnish with an extra sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Enjoy immediately while the chowder is hot and inviting.

Pro Tips for Flavorful Shrimp Chowder

• Remove shrimp from heat immediately once they turn pink and curl to maintain tender, juicy texture and prevent rubbery consistency.
• Cut potato cubes into uniform small sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent tenderness throughout the chowder.
• Add cheese off direct heat and stir gently to prevent separation and achieve smooth, creamy consistency without graininess.
• Use low-sodium broth instead of water to add more robust seafood undertones and enhance overall taste profile of the chowder.
• Substitute dairy milk with unsweetened almond or coconut milk for a lighter, lactose-free version without compromising rich, creamy texture.

Chowder Variations for Seafood Fans

• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap milk with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a creamy, plant-based version.
• Vegetarian Variation: Replace shrimp with diced cauliflower or white beans to create a hearty, protein-packed alternative.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute potato cubes with cauliflower florets to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining a similar texture.
• Spicy Seafood Remix: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to introduce a warming heat to the classic chowder recipe.

How to Serve Shrimp Chowder for a Cozy Meal

• Cozy Dinner Companion: Pair this creamy shrimp chowder with a crisp green salad and warm crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal that balances the rich soup.
• Elegant Appetizer Twist: Serve small portions in decorative shot glasses or mini bread bowls as an impressive starter for dinner parties or gatherings.
• Hearty Protein Boost: Top each bowl with crispy bacon bits, additional chopped shrimp, or toasted croutons to add extra texture and enhance the chowder's protein content.
• Seasonal Side Delight: Complement the chowder with a light white wine or a refreshing citrus-infused iced tea to cut through the creamy richness and cleanse the palate.

Proper Storage for Leftover Shrimp Chowder

• Store leftover shrimp chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent skin formation.
• Transfer cooled chowder to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing as the dairy and shrimp might separate or become grainy upon thawing.
• Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or water to restore original creamy consistency if needed.
• Reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, which can become tough and rubbery.

Creamy Shrimp Chowder Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty shrimp chowder delivers coastal comfort in one luxurious bowl, blending tender seafood with rich, velvety broth. Spoon through layers of potatoes, sweet corn, and succulent shrimp for a warm embrace that connects coastal kitchens directly to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 cans (106 grams / 3.7 ounces each) cocktail shrimp, drained and rinsed
• 3 medium russet potatoes, cubed
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Seasonings and Fats:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon celery salt

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Instructions

1. In a spacious pot, melt butter over medium heat, gently sautéing diced onions until translucent and softened, avoiding any browning.
2. Introduce celery, potato cubes, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, celery salt) to the pot. Pour boiling water and simmer for approximately 15 minutes until potatoes become tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low, carefully incorporate milk and shrimp into the vegetable mixture. Warm gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
4. Gradually fold in shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses, along with fresh chopped parsley. Continue stirring until cheeses completely melt and integrate smoothly into the chowder’s creamy texture.
5. Ladle the aromatic chowder into serving bowls, garnishing with additional fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Notes

• Choose butter alternatives like olive oil or plant-based butter for healthier options and different flavor profiles.
• Opt for gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent if managing gluten sensitivities.
• Swap shrimp with diced chicken or white fish for protein variety and dietary preferences.
• Use low-fat milk or non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk to reduce calories and accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 238 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 17 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg