A Warm and Satisfying Taste of the Sea
There’s something special about a bowl of creamy seafood chowder—the rich, velvety broth, the tender seafood, and the comforting warmth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening, a special occasion, or simply craving something hearty and delicious, this ocean-inspired delight is the perfect meal.
With a medley of shrimp, scallops, fish, and clams, this chowder is loaded with fresh seafood flavors, creamy texture, and well-balanced seasonings. It’s an easy one-pot meal that brings the best of the ocean right to your table.
Let’s dive into this classic seafood chowder recipe, explore its history, and learn how to perfect it at home!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Seafood Chowder
✔ Luxuriously Creamy & Flavorful
The combination of heavy cream, seafood broth, and white wine creates an indulgent and well-balanced chowder.
✔ Loaded with Fresh Seafood
Enjoy a mix of white fish, scallops, shrimp, and clams, making every spoonful burst with ocean goodness.
✔ Hearty & Comforting
With potatoes, corn, and tender vegetables, this chowder is filling, nourishing, and satisfying.
✔ One-Pot Wonder
Cook everything in a single pot, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a seafood feast, or a holiday gathering, this chowder is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Creamy Seafood Chowder
To make this rich and creamy seafood chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | ¼ cup |
| Medium onion, diced | 1 |
| Old Bay seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Thyme | ¼ teaspoon |
| Flour | ¼ cup |
| Celery, sliced | 1 stalk |
| Carrot, sliced | 1 |
| Potatoes, peeled & cubed | 1 pound |
| Corn | ½ cup |
| Seafood or chicken broth | 5 cups |
| White wine | ½ cup |
| White fish (cod, salmon, tilapia, or haddock), cut into chunks | 8 ounces |
| Scallops | 8 ounces |
| Shrimp, peeled & deveined | 12 ounces |
| Chopped clams (canned, drained) | 6 ½ ounces |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Seafood Chowder
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes, until soft and golden-brown.
- Stir in Old Bay seasoning and thyme to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- Sprinkle in flour, stirring to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add celery, carrots, and potatoes, stirring to coat them with the roux.
3. Add Broth & Wine
- Slowly pour in the seafood broth (or chicken broth) while stirring to prevent lumps.
- Add white wine and bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook for 15 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Add Seafood & Corn
- Stir in corn, white fish chunks, scallops, shrimp, and clams.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, until seafood is fully cooked and tender.
5. Finish with Cream
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream.
- Let the chowder warm through without boiling to prevent curdling.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish & Serve
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.
The History of Seafood Chowder
Seafood chowder has been a coastal favorite for centuries, originating from fishermen who needed a hearty, warming meal after long days at sea. While New England Clam Chowder is one of the most famous varieties, seafood chowders have evolved to include a mix of fish, shellfish, and vegetables, making each bowl rich, creamy, and satisfying.
Today, this dish remains a comfort food favorite in many coastal communities, loved for its depth of flavor and creamy texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.
Tips for the Best Creamy Seafood Chowder
1. Use Fresh Seafood for Maximum Flavor
- Fresh seafood enhances the taste, but frozen seafood can also work—just thaw it before cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook the Seafood
- Shrimp, scallops, and fish cook quickly, so add them towards the end to avoid a rubbery texture.
3. Let the Flavors Develop
- Allow the chowder to simmer slowly for deeper, richer flavors.
4. Make It Gluten-Free
- Substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
5. Store & Reheat Properly
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze without cream and add it when reheating.
- Reheat Gently: Warm over low heat, stirring often to maintain the creamy consistency.
Delicious Variations of Seafood Chowder
Spicy Cajun Seafood Chowder
- Add Cajun seasoning, diced jalapeños, and a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Lighter Dairy-Free Chowder
- Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
Loaded Bacon Seafood Chowder
- Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
Tomato-Based Manhattan-Style Chowder
- Replace the cream with diced tomatoes and add extra garlic and basil.
FAQs About Creamy Seafood Chowder
1. Can I make seafood chowder ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
2. What’s the best type of fish for chowder?
Mild, flaky fish like cod, haddock, or salmon work best.
3. Can I freeze seafood chowder?
Yes, but freeze it without the cream and add cream when reheating.
4. What’s the best way to thicken chowder?
A flour-based roux works best, but cornstarch or mashed potatoes can also thicken it.
5. What side dishes go well with seafood chowder?
Try it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
6. Can I add extra seafood?
Absolutely! Lobster, crab, or mussels make great additions.
Final Thoughts: Make This Creamy Seafood Chowder Today!
This Creamy Seafood Chowder: A Comforting Ocean-Inspired Delight is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors, tender seafood, and creamy goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or a cozy night in, this chowder is sure to impress.
So why wait? Grab your ingredients and make this delicious seafood chowder today!