Creamy Dreamy Shrimp Chowder Better Than Your Aunt Mildreds

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a bowl of pure comfort? Ever crave something creamy and utterly delicious? This shrimp chowder recipe delivers just that.

It’s a creamy, dreamy, and intensely flavorful delight. Honestly, it might just become your new favourite!

Brief Overview

Originating from the hearty seafood chowder recipe traditions of the East Coast, it’s a dish with soul. Don’t worry; this version won't take all day.

It’s a medium difficulty recipe, clocking in at roughly 55 minutes, and makes about 6 generous servings.

Main Benefits

One of the best things about it is that it's packed with protein from the shrimp. Plus, with potatoes, it’s pure comfort food soup .

Seriously, this Best Chowder Recipe is special because it combines classic flavors. Its easy to achieve great results at home.

Let's Talk Ingredients

Right, so what do we need to make this magic happen? First, you'll need bacon about 4 slices of thick cut stuff.

Then we have got the onion and celery, they are key to the flavour base, don't skip them!. Garlic, too, essential! Now for flour, chicken broth, cream, milk, thyme, salt, pepper and a bay leaf.

And, of course, the stars: 1.5 lbs of shrimp, and 1.5 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes. A touch of parsley and a knob of butter too.

You know, my Aunt Mildred thought she had the best Homemade Chowder recipe. Bless her heart, but this one blows hers out of the water! It’s not just about the ingredients.

But it is also about how they all come together. The creamy potato base, the sweet shrimp, the smoky bacon.

It’s a symphony of flavors. Plus, as Easy Soup Recipes go, this one is pretty straightforward.

I remember the first time I tried to make Shrimp Soup . Oh my gosh, it was a disaster! The shrimp were rubbery, the potatoes were hard.

It tasted like the sea threw up in a pot. But after a few tweaks and a lot of practice.

I've nailed this Quick Shrimp Chowder . Trust me, you can too!

Right then, fancy a proper bowl of comfort? Let's dive into the heart of this creamy dreamy shrimp chowder recipe.

It’s easier than you think, promise! This seafood chowder recipe is gonna be your new best mate in the kitchen.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Chowder Recipe

Honestly, this isn't complicated. We’re using stuff you probably already have. But good ingredients make a big difference. Like my grandma used to say, "you get what you pay for."

Main Ingredients: The Stars of Our Show

• Bacon: 4 slices thick cut, diced ( 115g / 4 oz ). Go for good quality; it makes all the difference.
• Onion: 1 medium yellow, chopped ( 150g / 5.3 oz ). Nothing fancy, just a regular yellow onion will do.
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped ( 100g / 3.5 oz ). Gotta have that celery crunch!
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced ( 6g / 0.2 oz ). Fresh is always best, innit?
• Flour: 2 tbsp all-purpose ( 16g / 0.6 oz ). This helps thicken the easy soup recipes .
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups ( 950 ml / 32 fl oz ). Proper chicken broth, not that watery stuff.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup ( 240 ml / 8 fl oz ). Don’t skimp, this is what makes it creamy!
• Milk: 1 cup ( 240 ml / 8 fl oz ). Full fat is best for flavour.
• Thyme: 1 tsp dried ( 2g / 0.07 oz ). Adds a bit of earthiness, you know?
• Salt & Pepper: 1/2 tsp salt ( 3g / 0.1 oz ), 1/4 tsp pepper ( 1.5g / 0.05 oz ). To taste, obviously.
• Bay Leaf: 1 . Don't forget to take it out later!
• Shrimp: 1.5 lbs , peeled, deveined, tails removed ( 680g / 24 oz ). Fresh or frozen, just make sure they're good quality. For the shrimp chowder recipe try to get the freshest ones, ok?
• Potatoes: 1.5 lbs Yukon gold, peeled and diced ( 680g / 24 oz ). These hold their shape so well.
• Parsley: 1/4 cup , chopped ( 10g / 0.4 oz ). For a bit of freshness at the end.
• Butter: 2 tbsp ( 28g / 1 oz ). Adds a bit of richness.

Seasoning Notes: The Magic Touch

Don't underestimate the power of good seasoning! Thyme is key here. It complements the seafood perfectly. Salt and pepper are your friends, taste as you go.

For easy soups like this, remember a bay leaf can't hurt, but cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

• Large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot.
• Cutting board.
• Chef's knife.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Wooden spoon or spatula.

You don't need anything fancy for this homemade chowder , a big pot and the ability to chop will do, that's right.

For this quick shrimp chowder , don't overthink it. It's all about layering those flavours. Are you ready to make this comfort food soup ? Let's crack on!

Creamy Dreamy Shrimp Chowder (Better Than Your Aunt Mildred's!)

Right then, let's whip up a cracking shrimp chowder recipe ! This ain't your nan's watery shrimp soup . Honestly, we're talking proper comfort food here.

Think thick, creamy, utterly irresistible, packed with sweet shrimp, tender potatoes, and a hint of smoky bacon. Sounds good, eh?

Prep Steps: Mise en Place, Mate!

First things first, you need your mise en place. Basically, get everything chopped, measured, and ready to rock. Dice the bacon (4 slices), chop the onion (1 medium) and celery (2 stalks).

Mince garlic (2 cloves) and potatoes, about 1.5 lbs. This time saving organization makes cooking a breeze. Remember, safety first.

Keep those knives sharp and your fingers out of the way.

step-by-step to the Best Chowder Recipe

Ready to get cooking? This easy soup recipe is simpler than you think!

1. Render the bacon: Cook the diced bacon in a large pot, over medium heat, until it's crispy. About 8- 10 minutes . Set aside the bacon, but keep that beautiful bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the veg: Toss in the chopped onion and celery to the pot. Cook in that bacon fat until softened, around 5 minutes . Add the garlic and cook until you can smell it, about 1 minute .
3. Make a roux: Stir in flour (2 tbsp) and cook for 1- 2 minutes . This helps to thicken the homemade chowder .
4. Add liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth (4 cups), making sure no lumps form. Stir in cream (1 cup), milk (1 cup), thyme (1 tsp), salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
5. Simmer potatoes: Add potatoes and simmer until tender, about 15- 20 minutes . You want them soft, like mash potato soft.
6. Cook Shrimp: Gently stir in shrimp (1.5 lbs) and cook until they turn pink, about 3- 5 minutes . Don't overcook or they'll be rubbery!
7. Butter It Up: Stir in butter (2 tbsp) to enrich the flavour and make this the best chowder recipe .
8. Finish & Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in parsley (1/4 cup) and the cooked bacon. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot. You’re sorted now!

Pro Tips for the Shrimpiest Shrimp Soup Recipes

Want to take your seafood chowder recipe to the next level? Easy peasy. Don't overcook the shrimp. Seriously. Aim for just cooked.

Adding a bit of hot sauce adds a kick. You know? It does! Creamy potato goodness, right here. It’s the perfect comfort food soup .

Recipe Notes For The Best Shrimp Chowder Recipe

Honestly, this shrimp chowder recipe is a game changer. It's not just any of those shrimp soup recipes , it's something special.

This seafood chowder recipe feels like a big warm hug. Here are some helpful hints for making this comfort food soup .

Let’s get started.

Serving Suggestions: Chowder Plating Like a Pro

Right, you've made this incredible homemade chowder . Now, let's make it look the part. Ladle the creamy goodness into bowls.

Garnish with extra parsley and crispy bacon bits. A hunk of crusty bread on the side is essential for mopping up every last drop.

Serve it up with a crisp green salad. A chilled glass of dry white wine is a nice touch too.

Storage Tips: Keep Your Easy Soups Fresh

This easy soup recipe is even better the next day, honestly. If you've got leftovers, let the chowder cool completely.

Pop it in an airtight container, and it'll keep in the fridge for up to three days. Freezing this creamy potato based soup isn't ideal due to the dairy.

However, you can do it. The texture might change a bit. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring often until warmed through.

Variations: Tailoring Your Creamy Potato Soup

Fancy a bit of a twist? This recipe is super adaptable!

• dairy-free Delight: Swap the cream and milk for full fat coconut milk. This adds a lovely richness. You can then switch the butter for olive oil.
• Spice It Up Shrimp Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Smoked paprika would add a depth that makes people wonder why they haven't heard of this Best Chowder Recipe Before.

Nutrition Basics: Know Your Shrimp Chowder Recipe

Each serving of this quick shrimp chowder is estimated to have 450 calories, 35g of protein, 25g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, 3g of fiber, and 800mg of sodium.

This creamy and hearty shrimp soup is packed with protein and nutrients. It is important to note, that shrimp is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Don't be shy to get creative. Cooking is all about having fun. Give it a go. You will surprise yourself with this easy soup recipe !

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this shrimp chowder recipe ahead of time?

You certainly can, but like a good cup of tea, it's best enjoyed fresh! The flavor actually deepens overnight, but the potatoes might absorb some of the liquid. Simply add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days wouldn't want any "soggy bottom" situations!

What's the best way to prevent rubbery shrimp in my shrimp chowder?

Ah, the dreaded rubbery shrimp! The key is not to overcook them. Add the shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking, just until they turn pink and opaque. They'll continue to cook a bit from the residual heat. Think of it like making the perfect cuppa timing is everything!

I'm not a fan of bacon; can I still make this shrimp chowder recipe?

Absolutely! The bacon adds a lovely smoky depth, but it's not essential. You can simply omit it or substitute it with diced pancetta or ham for a slightly different flavor profile.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you could add a dash of smoked paprika to mimic that smoky flavor a bit like adding gravy browning if you're missing that Sunday roast!

How can I make this shrimp chowder thicker or thinner?

Getting the consistency right is key to a proper chowder. For a thicker chowder, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. For a thinner chowder, simply add more milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Think of it like adjusting the amount of milk in your porridge everyone has their preference!

Is this shrimp chowder recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

While this shrimp chowder is undeniably comforting, it’s worth considering the nutritional aspects. It’s a good source of protein from the shrimp and contains some fiber from the potatoes and vegetables. However, it also contains a fair amount of fat and sodium, mainly from the bacon and cream.

You can make it healthier by using low-sodium broth, reducing the amount of cream, or swapping it with half and-half or milk. Like a proper Sunday roast, it's about enjoying it in moderation and making mindful choices!

Can I freeze leftover shrimp chowder?

Freezing chowder can be a bit tricky because dairy based soups sometimes change texture when thawed, becoming grainy. However, you can freeze it! For best results, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer safe containers, leaving some headspace as liquids expand when freezing.

When thawing, do so slowly in the refrigerator and be prepared to whisk it vigorously while reheating to restore a smoother texture. It might not be exactly the same as fresh, but it's a good way to avoid waste a bit like using leftover roast chicken for sandwiches!