Creamy Shrimp Chowder

Welcome to the comforting world of chowder, where rich flavors, hearty textures, and a nourishing combination of ingredients come together to create a dish that warms the soul. Chowder has a storied history, originating in the coastal regions of North America, where fishermen would concoct delicious broths with the day’s fresh catch. Over the years, this beloved dish has evolved, taking on various forms and flavors, but one variety remains a perennial favorite: creamy shrimp chowder.

Warm up with a bowl of creamy shrimp chowder that's sure to delight! This comforting recipe blends fresh shrimp, crispy bacon, and hearty vegetables in a rich, creamy base. Perfect for chilly evenings or to impress guests, it's easy to make with simple ingredients. With flavors that meld beautifully and a velvety texture, this chowder is a delightful way to nourish your body and satisfy your soul. Discover the joy of creating this timeless dish that brings everyone together!

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Ingredients

1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 strips of bacon, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium potatoes, diced

2 carrots, diced

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

4 cups seafood broth (or chicken broth)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.

Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Add Vegetables: Incorporate the diced potatoes and carrots, stirring to combine. Pour in the seafood broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Thicken the Chowder: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with a splash of the heavy cream to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture back into the pot while stirring to avoid lumps.

Make it Creamy: Stir in the remaining heavy cream, whole milk, corn, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the chowder simmer for another 5-10 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.

Add Shrimp: Gently fold in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.

Finish Off: Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and give a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 4 servings