Seafood Chowder Recipe – Creamy, Hearty, and Easy to Make

There’s something incredibly comforting about a steaming bowl of seafood chowder. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with tender seafood, potatoes, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold evening or a dish that brings a taste of the coast right into your kitchen, this recipe is a perfect choice.

What makes this seafood chowder stand out is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of shrimp and clams, the heartiness of potatoes, and the delicate flakiness of cod come together in a velvety, seafood-infused broth. Unlike some chowders that can be too heavy, this one has just the right amount of creaminess, making it indulgent but not overwhelming.

I remember the first time I had a truly great seafood chowder—it was during a trip to a small seaside town. The restaurant overlooked the harbor, and every spoonful of the chowder tasted like it had been made just minutes after the seafood had been caught. I knew I had to recreate that same fresh, rich, and deeply satisfying experience at home.

This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even if you’ve never made chowder before. With simple ingredients and a few key techniques, you’ll be able to achieve a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends. So let’s dive in and make a bowl of creamy, flavorful seafood chowder that will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this seafood chowder. From its rich flavor to its ease of preparation, this dish is one you’ll want to make again and again.

• Quick and easy – You can have a delicious, homemade chowder ready in under an hour.
• Rich and creamy texture – The perfect balance of creaminess without being too heavy.
• Loaded with seafood – A mix of shrimp, cod, and clams makes every bite flavorful and satisfying.
• Comfort food at its best – There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of chowder on a chilly evening.
• Great for meal prep – This chowder stores well, making it an excellent choice for leftovers.
• Customizable – You can easily swap out ingredients based on what’s available or your personal preference.

Each spoonful of this chowder is bursting with deep, savory flavors from the seafood, smoky hints from the bacon, and the satisfying heartiness of potatoes and cream. The best part is that this dish is as perfect for a casual weeknight dinner as it is for a special occasion.

Health Benefits

Seafood chowder is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that make it a great addition to a balanced diet. The combination of seafood, vegetables, and dairy provides a variety of health benefits.

• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids – The fish and shrimp in this chowder are excellent sources of omega-3s, which support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation.
• High in Protein – This dish is packed with protein from the seafood, which helps with muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals – Ingredients like shrimp and clams provide essential nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, which support immune function and overall well-being.
• Good Source of Fiber – Potatoes and celery add dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Boosts Metabolism – The iodine found in seafood is essential for thyroid health and helps regulate metabolism.

While this chowder is creamy and indulgent, it can be made lighter by using milk instead of heavy cream or reducing the amount of butter. This way, you can enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal without feeling weighed down.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients List

To make this creamy seafood chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 slices of turkey bacon, diced – Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Essential for building a flavorful base.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds a subtle crunch and fresh flavor.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Enhances the overall taste.
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the chowder.
• 4 cups seafood stock (or clam juice) – The foundation of the broth.
• 1 ½ lbs red potatoes, diced – Provides heartiness and texture.
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a hint of earthiness.
• 2 bay leaves – Infuses the broth with a subtle herbal note.
• 8 oz cod, cut into bite-sized pieces – A mild white fish that absorbs flavors beautifully.
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined – Brings a sweet, tender bite to the dish.
• 10 oz canned baby clams, drained – Adds briny depth and extra protein.
• 8 oz heavy cream – Gives the chowder its rich and creamy consistency.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced – For garnish and fresh flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large stockpot over medium heat, cook the diced turkey bacon until it turns crispy. This should take about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.

Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Add the Stock and Simmer

Slowly pour in the seafood stock while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Cook the Seafood

Gently add the cod pieces and let them cook for 5 minutes. Then, add the shrimp and let them cook for another 3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Add Clams and Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and add the drained baby clams. Stir everything together and let the chowder heat through for about 1 minute. Remove from heat.

Season and Serve

Stir in the fresh parsley and season the chowder with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

How to Serve

This seafood chowder is best enjoyed warm and can be served in various ways:

• With Bread – A slice of crusty sourdough or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• With Crackers – Oyster crackers or saltine crackers add a delightful crunch.
• With a Side Salad – A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the chowder.

Pairing Suggestions

Since this seafood chowder is rich and creamy, it pairs well with refreshing drinks and side dishes:

• Lemon-infused sparkling water – The citrusy bubbles help cleanse the palate.
• Iced tea with mint – A cool and herbal contrast to the warm, creamy soup.
• Steamed vegetables – Green beans or asparagus add color and nutrition.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Not recommended due to the dairy content, but can be done if necessary.
• Reheating – Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This seafood chowder recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on dietary needs or personal preferences. If you don’t have cod, you can substitute it with other white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia. If you prefer a heartier seafood mix, add scallops or mussels for an extra layer of flavor.

For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, which adds a slight sweetness while maintaining a creamy consistency. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Instead of turkey bacon, you can use smoked turkey or omit it entirely for a lighter chowder.

Vegetarians can transform this recipe by using vegetable broth instead of seafood stock and replacing the seafood with mushrooms, corn, and diced zucchini. To give your chowder a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. No matter how you customize it, this chowder will still be rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors.

How to Make This Chowder in a Slow Cooker

If you want to make this recipe with minimal effort, a slow cooker is a great option. Start by sautéing the turkey bacon, onion, celery, and garlic in a pan before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the flour, seafood stock, potatoes, thyme, and bay leaves, then cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

Once the potatoes are soft, add the seafood in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Start with the cod, then after 15 minutes, add the shrimp and clams. Pour in the heavy cream and let the flavors meld together for another 5-10 minutes before serving. Slow cooking allows all the flavors to develop beautifully, creating a chowder with a deep, rich taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot for an effortless, restaurant-quality meal.

Serving This Chowder for Special Occasions

Seafood chowder is a fantastic dish to serve for special occasions because it feels both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or a cozy date night, this chowder will impress your guests with its creamy texture and rich seafood flavors.

For a beautiful presentation, serve it in bread bowls for a rustic, restaurant-style feel. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a crisp, refreshing salad to balance the richness of the chowder. If you’re serving a large crowd, consider offering a variety of toppings such as crumbled turkey bacon, shredded cheese, or even a dash of paprika for a smoky finish.

You can also make the chowder in advance and reheat it right before serving, allowing you to focus on entertaining. This dish pairs well with warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits, making it the perfect centerpiece for a memorable meal.

Making This Chowder Kid-Friendly

If you’re serving seafood chowder to kids, there are a few ways to make it more appealing while keeping it nutritious. Some children might be hesitant about seafood, so consider chopping the fish and shrimp into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat. You can also blend a portion of the chowder to create a smoother texture, which some kids prefer.

For a fun twist, serve the chowder with crunchy toppings like oyster crackers or shredded cheese. If your child is sensitive to strong flavors, you can reduce the amount of garlic and herbs for a milder taste. Adding corn or diced carrots can introduce a touch of sweetness that balances the savory broth.

Another great way to encourage kids to try this chowder is by involving them in the cooking process. Let them stir the pot, sprinkle in seasonings, or help garnish their bowl. When children feel included, they are more likely to enjoy the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen seafood for this chowder?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the seafood completely and pat it dry before adding it to the chowder to prevent excess water from diluting the broth.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the consistency may change slightly.

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chowder up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

How do I thicken the chowder if it’s too thin?
If your chowder is too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the chowder while simmering until it thickens.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
Simply add a little extra seafood stock, milk, or cream and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I freeze seafood chowder?
It’s best not to freeze chowder with dairy, as the texture may become grainy when reheated. If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the cream and stir it in when reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat chowder without curdling?
Reheat the chowder over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling, as high heat can cause the cream to separate.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This creamy seafood chowder is a delicious and comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your results with family and friends. If you love this recipe, let us know in the comments!

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