Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight

The aroma of shrimp and corn chowder wafts through the air, inviting you to take a seat and dive into a bowl full of creamy goodness. Picture tender shrimp dancing amidst sweet corn, all enveloped in a velvety broth that screams comfort food. This dish is not just a meal but a cozy hug on a chilly evening.

Growing up, my family would gather around the table whenever my mom made her famous shrimp and corn chowder. It became our unofficial winter tradition, filling the house with warmth and laughter as we shared stories over steaming bowls of this delightful dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This scrumptious shrimp and corn chowder is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at the table
  • The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, turning an ordinary meal into something special
  • Versatile enough to adapt to various dietary preferences, this chowder can be customized to suit your taste buds perfectly

The first time I served this chowder at a family gathering, my cousin proclaimed it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which led to an impromptu bread-eating contest right there at the table.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Shrimp: Choose large shrimp for a satisfying bite; wild-caught is always best if you can find it.

  • Sweet Corn: Use fresh or frozen corn for that natural sweetness; canned corn works too in a pinch.

  • Onions: A sweet onion adds great flavor; chop them finely for even cooking.

  • Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings depth; don’t skip this essential ingredient!

  • Vegetable Broth: Homemade is ideal; otherwise, low-sodium store-bought works just fine.

  • Cream: Heavy cream gives that luscious texture; half-and-half can substitute if you’re watching calories.

  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika bring out all the flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start by prepping your ingredients: Gather all your veggies and shrimp so everything is ready for action. Chop onions and mince garlic while you mentally prepare yourself for the ultimate chowder experience.

Sautéing the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter until bubbly. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—followed by garlic for an extra punch.

Add in the Corn and Broth: Toss in your sweet corn followed by vegetable broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes while you contemplate what bread will accompany this masterpiece.

Incorporate Shrimp and Cream: Once your corn mixture simmers gloriously, add the shrimp. Cook until they turn pink—about 3-5 minutes—then pour in heavy cream for that dreamy texture everyone craves.

Seasoning Magic: Here’s where you unleash your inner chef! Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika generously into the mix. Stir well and let everything meld together on low heat for another 5 minutes—a tantalizing aroma should fill your kitchen now!

Serve with Flair!: Ladle your chowder into bowls garnished with fresh parsley or chives if you’re feeling fancy. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for dipping—your taste buds will thank you!

And there you have it! A heartwarming bowl of shrimp and corn chowder ready to warm both body and soul while filling your home with delightful scents that signal “dinner’s ready.” Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

You Must Know

  • This creamy shrimp and corn chowder is a comforting bowl of joy
  • It’s packed with flavors, easy to whip up, and perfect for cozy evenings
  • With a delightful balance of sweet corn and succulent shrimp, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until pink before incorporating corn and broth for the best flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for crab or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also elevate the flavor profile significantly.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For optimal flavor, use fresh seafood instead of frozen; it makes a noticeable difference
  • Always season your chowder gradually to avoid overpowering it
  • Lastly, a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully

Sometimes I serve this chowder at family gatherings, and it always gets rave reviews! The laughter around the table makes cooking so rewarding.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make shrimp and corn chowder ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead enhances the flavors; just reheat gently before serving.

What type of shrimp works best in chowder?

Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; just ensure they’re deveined for convenience.

Can I freeze leftover chowder?

Freezing is possible, but cream-based soups may change texture upon thawing.

Print
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Shrimp and Corn Chowder


  • Author: Mark Taylor
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Shrimp and corn chowder is a comforting bowl of creamy goodness, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish features succulent shrimp and sweet corn simmered in a velvety broth, making it a family favorite. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this chowder turns an ordinary meal into something special that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup sweet onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. Prep all ingredients: chop onions, mince garlic, and peel shrimp.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté onions until translucent (3-4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Stir in corn and vegetable broth; simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Add shrimp to the pot and cook until they turn pink (3-5 minutes). Then pour in heavy cream.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika; stir well and let it simmer on low for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 190mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using crab instead of shrimp or include jalapeños for a spicy kick. - Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the dish's profile.

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