Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder: Easy Dinner Recipe for Cozy Nights
Introduction
When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of creamy shrimp corn chowder to warm your soul. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of corn with the succulent flavors of shrimp, all enveloped in a velvety, creamy broth. As a professional chef, I’ve perfected this recipe to bring you a restaurant-quality meal right in the comfort of your own home. Let’s dive into this cozy dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This easy creamy shrimp corn chowder is the ideal choice for those seeking a comforting yet sophisticated meal. It’s perfect for:
◾ Busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying dinner
◾ Impressing guests with minimal effort
◾ Seafood lovers looking for a new twist on chowder
◾ Anyone craving a warm, hearty meal during colder months
Ingredients List
◾ 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
◾ 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
◾ 2 tablespoons butter
◾ 1 medium onion, diced
◾ 2 celery stalks, chopped
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 4 cups seafood or vegetable broth
◾ 2 medium potatoes, diced
◾ 1 cup heavy cream
◾ 1 bay leaf
◾ 1 teaspoon dried thyme
◾ Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
◾ 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Base Ingredients
Pour in the seafood or vegetable broth, and add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
Remove the bay leaf and transfer about half of the soup to a blender. Carefully blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. This step creates a creamy base without the need for excessive cream.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Finish
Stir in the heavy cream and shrimp. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
This creamy shrimp corn chowder is rich in protein from the shrimp and provides a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
Calories per Person
Approximately 380 calories per serving.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe lighter, consider these alternatives:
◾ Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
◾ Substitute one cup of corn with cauliflower florets
◾ Use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chowder with:
◾ A slice of crusty whole-grain bread
◾ A fresh green salad
◾ Oyster crackers or croutons for added crunch
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Overcooking the shrimp, which can make them tough
◾ Using low-fat milk instead of cream, which may cause curdling
◾ Forgetting to season adequately, as seafood dishes often need a bit more salt
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Thaw them completely before adding to the chowder.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream with coconut milk and use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Can I add other seafood to this chowder?
Certainly! Feel free to add chunks of white fish or scallops for a seafood medley.
How can I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?
Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering chowder.
Can this chowder be frozen?
While possible, freezing may affect the texture of the potatoes and cream. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
This creamy shrimp corn chowder is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Remember, the key to a great chowder lies in the quality of your ingredients and the love you put into preparing it. So, grab your ladle and get ready to serve up bowls of happiness!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
