Shrimp Chowder

If you’re a fan of clam chowder, then this shrimp chowder recipe is a must-try. Creamy, savory, and packed with tender shrimp, hearty potatoes, flavorful spices, and melty cheese, this chowder is a cozy bowl of comfort that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or when you’re simply craving something soul-warming and satisfying, this shrimp chowder delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.

ingredients

• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup boiling water
• 3 medium russet potatoes, cut into cubes
• ¼ cup chopped celery
• 2 cans cocktail shrimp (106g each), drained and rinsed
• 2 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon celery salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Directions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add diced onions and cook until soft, stirring occasionally. Avoid browning.
3. Stir in chopped celery, cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and celery salt.
4. Pour in the boiling water and let cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Lower the heat to medium-low.
6. Add the milk and drained shrimp. Heat for 5 to 7 minutes.
7. Stir in shredded Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley.
8. Cook until cheese is fully melted and soup is heated through.
9. Serve hot with your favorite bread or crackers.

serving and storage tips

serving tips

• Serve the shrimp chowder hot, right after cooking, for the best creamy texture and flavor.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese for added color and richness.
• Pair it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• A side of oyster crackers or a light green salad also makes a great accompaniment.

storage tips

• Let the chowder cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Do not let it boil when reheating to avoid curdling the milk and cheese.
• Freezing is not recommended due to the milk and cheese content, which can separate or become grainy when thawed.

variations

1. creamy shrimp and corn chowder
Add 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) along with the potatoes. Corn adds a natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with shrimp for a delicious twist on traditional chowder.

2. spicy cajun shrimp chowder
Replace regular shrimp with Cajun-seasoned shrimp. Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or Old Bay to the broth for a bold, zesty flavor. A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can elevate the heat even more.

3. shrimp and bacon chowder
Cook 4 slices of chopped bacon until crispy and set aside. Use the bacon drippings to sauté the onions. Stir the cooked bacon back in just before serving for a smoky, savory depth of flavor.

4. extra cheesy shrimp chowder
Double the amount of cheddar and Swiss cheese for an ultra-cheesy version. You can also add cream cheese (2 oz) to the broth for an even richer, thicker texture.

5. shrimp and vegetable chowder
Add extra vegetables such as diced carrots, peas, or green beans to the soup. This turns the chowder into a more complete and nutritious one-pot meal.

6. low-fat shrimp chowder
Replace whole milk with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. Use reduced-fat cheese or skip the cheese entirely for a lighter version, while still maintaining flavor.

7. shrimp and crab chowder
Add lump crab meat (about ½ cup) along with the shrimp for a seafood lover’s dream. The sweetness of the crab enhances the overall richness of the dish.

8. herbed shrimp chowder
Stir in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and basil for an herb-forward flavor. Fresh dill or tarragon also complements seafood beautifully.

9. lemon garlic shrimp chowder
Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 extra teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic for a tangy, bright variation. Garnish with lemon zest for a fresh finish.

10. creamy tomato shrimp chowder
Stir in ½ cup of tomato puree or diced tomatoes along with the milk for a tomato-based seafood chowder. This adds acidity and depth, turning it into a cross between chowder and bisque.

FAQs

1. can i use fresh shrimp instead of canned cocktail shrimp?
Yes, absolutely. Fresh shrimp (peeled, deveined, and cooked) works great. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the chowder.

2. what’s the best way to thicken shrimp chowder?
If you want a thicker chowder, you can mash a few of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and simmer until thickened.

3. can i freeze shrimp chowder?
It’s not recommended. Due to the dairy content (milk and cheese), the texture can become grainy or separate when frozen and thawed.

4. can i use pre-cooked frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before adding during the final steps of cooking.

5. is there a dairy-free version of this chowder?
Yes, substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese or omit it entirely.

6. how can i make this chowder more filling?
You can add cooked rice, orzo, or small pasta shells. Additional protein like crab, clams, or diced cooked chicken can also be added.

7. what other seasonings go well in this chowder?
Try thyme, dill, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Old Bay seasoning is also a popular seafood-friendly choice.

8. how long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat.

9. can i use other cheeses besides cheddar and swiss?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses can be used for a different flavor profile.

10. what should i serve with shrimp chowder?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, oyster crackers, cornbread muffins, or a crisp green salad all pair beautifully with this creamy chowder.

This creamy shrimp chowder is a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for any time of year. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a comforting, restaurant-worthy chowder on the table in 30 minutes. Customize it to suit your taste and enjoy the warm, savory flavors in every spoonful.

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