Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy chowder, brimming with sweet corn, tender shrimp, and smoky hints of bacon. Whether you’re braving a cold winter evening or looking for a hearty dinner any time of the year, Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder is a dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor.

This chowder is simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder

• Rich and Comforting: The creamy base, combined with savory bacon and fresh shrimp, creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps and basic ingredients, this chowder is weeknight-friendly.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat, add extra veggies, or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe is great for family meals, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients for Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	2 tbsp
Onion (diced)	1 small
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Potatoes (diced)	2 medium
Sweet corn kernels	2 cups
Shrimp (peeled, deveined)	1 lb (450 g)
Chicken or seafood broth	4 cups
Heavy cream or half-and-half	1 cup
Smoked paprika	1 tsp
Dried thyme	1/2 tsp
Cayenne pepper (optional)	1/4 tsp
Salt and black pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

2. Add Potatoes and Corn

1. Add the diced potatoes and sweet corn to the pot.
2. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth.
3. Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

3. Cook the Shrimp

1. Add the shrimp to the simmering chowder.
2. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.

4. Finish with Cream

1. Reduce the heat to low.
2. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
3. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

5. Serve

1. Ladle the chowder into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
3. Serve warm with crusty bread or oyster crackers for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and sweet corn enhance the flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Add shrimp toward the end to keep them tender and juicy.
• Thicken the Chowder: For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes or blend a portion of the soup before adding the cream.
• Make It Smoky: Add diced, cooked bacon to the chowder for an extra smoky depth of flavor.

Creative Variations

1. Add Bacon

• Cook and crumble 4–6 slices of bacon, and sprinkle them on top as a garnish or mix them into the chowder.

2. Seafood Medley

• Add scallops, crab, or clams alongside the shrimp for a seafood-rich version.

3. Vegetable Boost

• Include diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

4. Spicy Twist

• Increase the cayenne pepper and top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy chowder.

5. Dairy-Free Option

• Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free chowder.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	~350
Protein	~25g
Fat	~15g
Carbohydrates	~25g
Fiber	~3g

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: Pair with a loaf of sourdough or French bread for dipping.
• With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad complements the richness of the chowder.
• As a Starter: Serve smaller portions as an appetizer for a larger meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Frozen shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Thaw them before adding to the chowder.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

3. Can I freeze this chowder?

You can freeze the chowder, but omit the cream until reheating, as dairy can separate during freezing. Add the cream when reheating for the best texture.

4. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

You can use regular paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a similar effect.

5. Can I use canned corn?

Absolutely! Drain and rinse canned corn before adding it to the pot.

6. How do I make the chowder thicker?

Mash some of the potatoes with a fork or blend a portion of the soup before adding the shrimp and cream.

Bring Comfort to Your Table

Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder is more than just a recipe—it’s a bowl of comfort, packed with creamy goodness and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this chowder is sure to please.

Ready to make it? Gather your ingredients, warm up your pot, and dive into this irresistible dish today!

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