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–+ servings
Melany

Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder: A Creamy Comfort Food Delight

Savor the ultimate comfort food with Bacon Shrimp and Corn Chowder! This creamy, hearty soup combines smoky bacon, tender shrimp, and sweet corn in a rich and flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a comforting, soul-warming dish, this chowder is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chowder
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 slices bacon diced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 cups chicken or seafood broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
  2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
  1. Add the butter to the pot with the bacon fat.
  2. Sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: 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, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Simmer
  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
  1. Add the shrimp to the pot.
  2. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
  1. Reduce the heat to low.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
  3. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed.
Step 7: Serve
  1. Ladle the chowder into bowls.
  2. Garnish with the crispy bacon and fresh parsley.
  3. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Notes

  • Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them before adding to the chowder.
  • Thicker Chowder: Mash some of the potatoes or blend a portion of the soup before adding the shrimp and cream.
  • Smoky Flavor: Enhance smokiness by using more bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke.

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