Easy Seafood Chowder Recipe

Are you craving a hearty and creamy dish that brings the ocean’s flavors to your table? Seafood chowder is the perfect solution! But what makes a great seafood chowder? Is it the creamy broth, the mix of tender seafood, or the perfect balance of seasonings? In this post, we will show you how to make an easy seafood chowder recipe that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also become a go-to comfort meal for any occasion.

Ingredients List: The Essential Ingredients for Seafood Chowder

When it comes to making a delicious seafood chowder, the quality of the ingredients matters. But don’t worry—this easy seafood chowder recipe uses simple, easily accessible ingredients that you can find at most grocery stores. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, these ingredients will give your chowder the creamy, rich texture that makes it irresistible.

Seafood:

• Shrimp (1 lb) – Peeled and deveined for ease of cooking
• Cod or Haddock (1 lb) – Fresh or frozen; chunks of fish will work best
• Scallops (1/2 lb) – Optional, but they bring a delicate sweetness to the dish
• Clams (1/2 lb) – Fresh or canned; they add a briny depth of flavor to the chowder

Vegetables:

• Potatoes (2 medium) – Peeled and diced; they provide the hearty base for the chowder
• Onion (1 medium) – Diced finely for a slight sweetness and savory undertone
• Celery (2 stalks) – Adds a fresh crunch and subtle flavor
• Carrot (1 medium) – Optional, but adds a touch of sweetness and color

Broth and Cream:

• Chicken broth (2 cups) – You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter base
• Heavy cream (1 cup) – For that rich, velvety texture
• Milk (1 cup) – To balance the richness of the cream
• Butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing vegetables and creating depth of flavor

Seasonings:

• Garlic (2 cloves) – Minced for an aromatic base
• Bay leaves (2) – For a herbal infusion
• Thyme (1 tsp) – Fresh or dried, this adds a subtle earthy flavor
• Parsley (for garnish) – Freshly chopped, for a vibrant, fresh finish
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning the chowder to perfection

Optional Additions:

• Bacon (2 slices) – Adds a smoky richness that complements the seafood perfectly
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp) – Adds a refreshing zing to balance the creaminess

Timing: How Long Does It Take to Make Seafood Chowder?

One of the best things about this easy seafood chowder recipe is how quickly it comes together. You can enjoy a flavorful, creamy seafood chowder in just 45 minutes—which is about 20% less time than the average chowder recipe!

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

This quick, efficient recipe doesn’t sacrifice taste for speed. Whether you’re in a rush or just craving a comforting bowl of chowder, this dish delivers great results without the long wait.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Seafood Chowder

Follow these clear and easy steps to make the best seafood chowder:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, carrot (if using), and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavors of the veggies and creates a savory base for your chowder.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. This step ensures that the potatoes become soft and absorb the flavors of the broth, giving your chowder a hearty texture.

Step 3: Add the Seafood

Once the potatoes are tender, add the chunks of fish, shrimp, scallops, and clams to the pot. Stir gently and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the seafood is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become rubbery.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Seasonings

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, milk, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the chowder to thicken slightly. If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chowder from heat. Discard the bay leaves and ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and crispy bacon if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

This seafood chowder is a rich, satisfying meal that provides plenty of protein from the seafood and healthy fats from the cream and butter. However, if you’re looking to make this dish lighter, there are a few ways to modify the ingredients.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

While this seafood chowder is already packed with flavor, you can make some easy swaps to enhance its nutritional profile.

1. Swap the Cream for Coconut Milk: If you’re looking for a dairy-free or lighter version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk. This will still provide a creamy texture but with a slightly tropical flavor.
2. Use Low-Sodium Broth: To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
3. Add More Vegetables: For a fiber boost, add more vegetables like spinach, leeks, or corn. They’ll add color and nutrients while still maintaining that comforting chowder texture.

Serving Suggestions for Your Seafood Chowder

This seafood chowder is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions. Here are some creative suggestions:

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Serve your chowder with a warm, buttered loaf of bread or crusty rolls for the perfect dip.
• Salad: Pair the chowder with a simple, fresh green salad for a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Seafood Crackers: If you’re feeling indulgent, serve the chowder with seafood-flavored crackers for an extra kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making seafood chowder is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

1. Overcooking the Seafood: Seafood cooks quickly, and overcooking it can make it tough and rubbery. Add the seafood toward the end of cooking and only cook it until it’s just done.
2. Not Seasoning Enough: Seafood can have a delicate flavor, so be sure to season your chowder well. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
3. Using the Wrong Pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is best for making chowder because it ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

Storing Tips for Seafood Chowder

Seafood chowder makes great leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat your chowder:

• In the fridge: Let the chowder cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• In the freezer: If you want to freeze the chowder, make sure to leave out the seafood until you’re ready to reheat it. Chowder with seafood tends to get soggy when frozen. Once frozen, it can last for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra cream or broth to restore the consistency if necessary.

Conclusion

This easy seafood chowder recipe combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and fresh seafood to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen seafood works perfectly for this seafood chowder. Just ensure it’s thawed before adding it to the pot.

2. Can I make seafood chowder without cream?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter version.

3. How do I thicken the chowder if it’s too runny?

If your chowder is too thin, you can mash some of the potatoes to thicken the broth, or add a tablespoon of flour mixed with water to the soup.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

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