Description
This Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder is a rich and creamy soup that combines succulent shrimp, fresh sweet corn, and tender potatoes in a flavorful broth. Enhanced with smoky bacon, aromatic garlic and onion, and a hint of smoked paprika and cayenne, this comforting chowder is perfect for a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood and Vegetables
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Proteins and Dairy
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Liquids and Seasonings
- 3 cups chicken or seafood broth
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté aromatics: Add butter to the bacon drippings, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken or seafood broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 10–12 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Add remaining ingredients except shrimp: Stir in the corn, heavy cream, milk, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat, ladle the chowder into bowls, and garnish with crispy bacon and chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Notes
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter chowder version.
- For enhanced flavor, use grilled or roasted corn when in season.
- Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers to complement the chowder.
