Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chowder is everything you love in a comforting soup: creamy, flavorful, and packed with shrimp and corn. The sweetness of the corn perfectly complements the savory shrimp, and the cream base adds richness and depth. With the added vegetables, like onions, celery, and potatoes, the chowder is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or as a special treat, Shrimp Corn Chowder is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (cut into bite-sized pieces if desired)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
3 cups chicken broth (or seafood broth for extra flavor)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Cook the potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, along with the chicken broth, corn, smoked paprika (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the shrimp: Once the potatoes are tender, add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
Add the cream: Stir in the heavy cream and butter, allowing the cream to combine with the broth and create a smooth, velvety texture. Let the chowder simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.
Finish with lemon juice: If desired, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to add brightness to the chowder. This will balance out the richness of the cream and add a fresh note.

Serve:

Garnish and serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Shrimp Corn Chowder: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle hot sauce on top when serving for an added burst of heat.
Lobster Corn Chowder: For an indulgent twist, substitute shrimp with lobster meat or mix both shrimp and lobster for a seafood-packed chowder.
Vegan/Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Add a Splash of Wine: For a little extra depth, add a splash of white wine to the broth while simmering the potatoes and vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Shrimp Corn Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to improve after resting, so it’s a great make-ahead meal!
Freezing: This chowder can be frozen, but the texture of the cream may change when reheated. Store the chowder in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder seems too thick, you can add a little extra chicken broth or water to thin it out.

Conclusion

Shrimp Corn Chowder is the perfect comforting meal that’s easy to prepare yet packed with bold, satisfying flavors. The creamy base, combined with the sweet corn, tender shrimp, and savory seasonings, creates a bowl of pure comfort. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it at a gathering, this chowder is sure to be a hit. It’s versatile, easy to make, and will leave you wanting more with every spoonful!

Shrimp Corn Chowder