Name: Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder for Cozy Nights In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp (Fresh or frozen, medium or large); 3 tablespoons butter (For sautéing vegetables); 1 medium onion (Finely chopped); 2 stalks celery (Chopped); 2 cups potatoes (Diced); 2 cups corn kernels (Fresh, frozen, or canned); 4 cups chicken broth (Or vegetable broth for vegetarian option); 1 cup half-and-half (Can be replaced with heavy cream or milk); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 leaf bay leaf; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (Chopped); to taste lemon wedges (Optional)

A delicious aroma filled my kitchen as I stirred the pot, and I couldn’t help but wish time could slow down just a little. This Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder is more than just a comforting bowl of soup; it’s a ticket to cozy evenings spent with loved ones, sharing hearty laughter and stories. With its delightful blend of sweet corn and tender shrimp, this dish is irresistibly creamy yet incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a busy home-chef looking for a quick weeknight meal or someone eager to impress at your next dinner party, this chowder caters to all. Plus, it’s adaptable—feel free to switch out the shrimp for crab or try a dairy-free version to keep everyone satisfied. Are you ready to bring warmth to your table with this delightful chowder? Let’s dive in!

What makes this chowder so special?

Comforting and Creamy: Each bowl of this Shrimp and Corn Chowder is a warm hug on a chilly night. The rich, velvety texture makes it a delightful treat that your family will adore.

Versatile Options: With variations like dairy-free or seafood swaps, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Try it with Garlic Shrimp Over for a unique twist!

Quick and Easy: This chowder comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Winning Flavor Combination: The sweet corn and briny shrimp blend beautifully, creating flavors that dance on your palate.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish is sure to impress all your guests. Pair it with a light green salad for a complete meal!

Shrimp and Corn Chowder Ingredients

For the Chowder Base
• Shrimp – Fresh or frozen, medium or large for optimal texture and briny sweetness.
• Butter – Adds richness when sautéing the base vegetables.
• Onion – Finely chopped to provide a savory foundation for flavor.
• Celery – Chopped for a mild crunch and depth in the chowder.
• Potatoes – Diced to add thickness and heartiness to the dish.
• Corn Kernels – Fresh, frozen, or canned; fresh is best in summer for sweetness.
• Chicken Broth – The liquid base that imparts depth; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

For the Creaminess
• Half-and-Half – Creates the chowder’s creamy base; can be replaced with heavy cream for richness or milk for a lighter alternative.

For Flavor Enhancement
• Garlic Powder – Provides a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds warmth and a slight smokiness to elevate taste.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning to your personal taste.
• Bay Leaf – Introduces aromatic notes during the simmering process.

For Finishing Touches
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped for garnish and a fresh touch at serving.
• Lemon Wedges – Optional; a squeeze adds a bright contrast to the creamy chowder.

Now that you’re equipped with the ingredients for this delectable Shrimp and Corn Chowder, let’s move on to creating this comforting dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp and Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, removing the shells and tails for a clean presentation. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once sizzling, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside, allowing their flavors to enrich the chowder later.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add another tablespoon of butter if necessary, and toss in the finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Then add the diced potatoes and corn kernels, stirring them in for about 2 minutes to combine. This allows the vegetables to soften and build a flavor base for your rich Shrimp and Corn Chowder.

Step 3: Simmer the Chowder
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add a bay leaf to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This simmering process melds all the delicious flavors together, creating a comforting foundation for your chowder.

Step 4: Add Creaminess
Once the potatoes are tender, stir in 1 cup of half-and-half to introduce that silky creaminess characteristic of a delightful Shrimp and Corn Chowder. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. Make sure not to boil, ensuring the dairy stays smooth and creamy without curdling.

Step 5: Finalize the Dish
Return the cooked shrimp to the pot, gently folding them into the chowder. Warm through for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated but not overcooked. Taste your chowder and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, adjusting as needed. This step ensures every spoonful of the chowder is perfectly balanced and deliciously satisfying.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the bay leaf from the chowder before ladling it into bowls. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Optionally, serve with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the warm chowder. This creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder is best enjoyed hot, paired with crusty bread for a truly comforting experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder preparations are perfect for bustling weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, celery, and potatoes), and refrigerate them up to 3 days in advance, keeping them fresh and ready to toss into the pot. Similarly, you can cook the shrimp ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies in butter, add the broth and potatoes, and follow through with simmering. Finish by incorporating the shrimp and the half-and-half, ensuring that the chowder stays just as delicious as if prepared fresh!

Shrimp and Corn Chowder Variations

Looking to spice up your chowder experience? Dive into these delightful twists that cater to every palate!

Dairy-Free: Swap half-and-half for coconut milk to achieve a creamy texture without dairy. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chowder’s flavors.
Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with crab meat, scallops, or even lobster for an elevated seafood feast. Just be sure to adjust cooking times, so your seafood shines.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, enhancing nutrition and adding pops of color to your chowder. They not only boost flavor but also make it even heartier.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to ignite some heat in the chowder. This fiery dimension can transform your comforting bowl into a spicy adventure.
Extra Creamy: Increase the half-and-half or stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a richer, velvety texture. This way, every spoonful becomes an indulgent experience.
Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh dill or thyme during the simmering process. These aromatic herbs elevate the overall profile of your chowder and bring an enticing fragrance.
Smoky Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, try using smoked shrimp or adding a touch of liquid smoke along with smoked paprika. This adds a delightful complexity and surprises the taste buds.

Don’t forget, pairing this chowder with crusty sourdough or buttery rolls makes for a complete meal. And if you’re looking for more ways to enjoy shrimp, check out One Pot Garlic for another easy-to-make dish!

What to Serve with Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder

This delightful chowder warms the soul, making it the perfect centerpiece for a cozy gathering or intimate dinner.

Crusty Sourdough Bread: The hearty texture of sourdough complements the creamy chowder, perfect for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop.
Light Green Salad: A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chowder.
Garlic Toast: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter enhances the meal, offering a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the chowder’s creaminess.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor and crispy texture of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delightful balance when served alongside this warm dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon juice brightens the plate, offering freshness that complements the chowder’s flavors splendidly.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of chardonnay, with its crisp acidity and light fruit notes, pairs exquisitely with the seafood, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate between servings, a light lemon sorbet adds a refreshing note to your meal, perfect after the chowder’s creamy indulgence.

Storage Tips for Shrimp and Corn Chowder

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chowder is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chowder without shrimp for up to 3 months. Add cooked shrimp when reheating to avoid overcooking.

Reheating: Gently reheat the chowder on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it thickens too much during storage.

Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, ensure the shrimp are warm throughout but not cooked further to preserve their tenderness in your Shrimp and Corn Chowder.

Expert Tips for Shrimp and Corn Chowder

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are just pink and opaque when added back to the chowder; overcooking can make them tough.

• Adjust Creaminess: For a richer chowder, swap half-and-half for heavy cream, or add a splash of cream at the end for extra thickness.

• Fresh Corn Preferred: Use fresh corn whenever possible for the sweetest flavor, but frozen or canned can work well in a pinch.

• Customize Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots; they enhance nutrition and color in your chowder.

• Season as You Go: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure each bowl of Shrimp and Corn Chowder is perfectly balanced.

Shrimp and Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this chowder?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, aim for medium to large sizes for the best texture. Fresh shrimp should have a slightly briny smell and a firm texture, while frozen shrimp should be stored at a safe temperature in well-sealed packaging. Look for shrimp that are translucent and shiny, without any dark spots or signs of freezer burn.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Shrimp and Corn Chowder?
Very! Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze Shrimp and Corn Chowder?
Absolutely! For freezer storage, I recommend freezing the chowder without the shrimp to maintain their tender texture. You can pour it into freezer-safe containers and it’s best to consume it within 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding in freshly cooked shrimp just before serving.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
If you find your chowder is thicker than you’d like, no worries at all! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir until you reach your desired consistency. Gently heat it in a pot on the stovetop, stirring frequently to incorporate the liquid without overcooking the shrimp.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Very! To adapt this recipe for dairy-free diets, I often suggest substituting the half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk, and using a dairy-free butter alternative for sautéing. This way, you can still enjoy that delicious creamy texture with all the flavors intact!

Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
Of course! Feel free to customize your chowder by adding vegetables like diced carrots, zucchini, or sweet bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the onions and celery in step 2, and enjoy a nutritional boost along with those wonderful flavors.