Shrimp-Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful shrimp and corn chowder infused with smoky bacon, sweet corn, and tender potatoes. Perfect for cozy evenings, this creamy soup combines smoky, sweet, and savory notes that appeal to seafood lovers and comfort food fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the bacon in a large pot and set aside.
- Save 3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
- Add chopped onions, chopped celery, finely chopped carrots, and crumbled bay leaf to the fat.
- Saute the vegetables for 15 minutes until they are clear, but not brown.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add water and diced potatoes to the pot.
- Simmer, covered, for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add the cleaned shrimp and cook for 5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Return the cooked bacon to the pot.
- Add the undrained cream-style corn and whole kernel corn.
- Heat thoroughly without boiling, season with salt, pepper, and Tabasco to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can substitute the shrimp with crab or scallops for variety. If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion of the potatoes before adding the shrimp. Adding a splash of white wine enhances the taste, making it reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Cheesy Bacon Baked Potatoes to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the texture of the shrimp and prevent curdling of the cream-style corn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp-Corn Chowder contains roughly 1409 calories, with 33g protein, 261g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (226% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1524mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, this chowder can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to undercook the shrimp slightly, as they will continue to cook when reheated. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid overcooking.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the chowder. This will maintain the texture while making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that mimics the taste of bacon without using pork.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).