Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder

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Creamy, rich, and brimming with sweet corn and juicy shrimp, this chowder is everything you crave in a comforting bowl. It captures a perfect balance between sweet and savory, pairing the brininess of shrimp with the mellow sweetness of corn, rounded out by smoky undertones of bacon and the silkiness of cream.

Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner on a cool evening or a crowd-pleaser for a casual dinner party, Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder is both elegant and approachable. It feels special but is easy to make, and always delivers a satisfying spoonful.

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What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

Fresh or frozen, the shrimp you use should be peeled and deveined before cooking. Medium to large shrimp work best because they hold their texture well in the hot chowder. If using frozen, just thaw and pat them dry. Tail-on shrimp offer a more dramatic presentation, but you can opt for tail-off if serving for easier spooning.

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Ingredients for the Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder

Shrimp: The star protein, adding sweetness and a firm, juicy bite.

Sweet Corn Kernels: Provide natural sweetness and texture. Fresh, frozen, or canned all work.

Bacon: Adds smokiness and depth that balances the sweet corn.

Onion: A classic base ingredient for flavor building.

Garlic: Brings a gentle pungency that lifts the soup.

Celery: Adds aromatic and savory crunch to the base.

Butter: Used to sauté and enrich the overall flavor.

Flour: Helps thicken the chowder into a luscious consistency.

Chicken or Seafood Stock: Provides the soup with a flavorful base.

Heavy Cream: Delivers that signature creamy texture.

Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors into harmony.

Paprika or Cayenne (Optional): For a bit of smoky heat, if desired.

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How To Make the Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add butter to the bacon drippings. Once melted, sauté diced onion, celery, and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Base

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken or seafood stock, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Add Corn and Simmer

Stir in the corn kernels and cooked bacon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Add Shrimp

Stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Simmer until shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes depending on size.

Step 6: Creamy Finish

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or cayenne to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with a crack of fresh black pepper, extra corn, or chopped chives if desired.

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Serving and Storing This Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder

Serve this chowder piping hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up every drop of the creamy broth. It makes a cozy dinner for four or a charming starter for a larger gathering.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling after adding cream and shrimp to preserve the texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this chowder gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in place of all-purpose flour for thickening. Ensure your stock is also gluten-free.

Can I use cooked shrimp instead of raw?

Yes, but add cooked shrimp at the very end to simply warm them through. Overcooking can make them rubbery.

Is it possible to freeze this chowder?

It’s not recommended, as the cream can separate and shrimp may become tough upon reheating.

Can I add potatoes to the chowder?

Absolutely. Diced, peeled potatoes can be added after the stock and before the simmer. Cook until tender before adding shrimp.

What if I don’t eat bacon?

You can skip it and start with butter or olive oil. To mimic the smoky depth, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild as written. To increase heat, add cayenne, diced jalapeño, or hot sauce to your preference.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

You might also like the Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup, a rustic option loaded with beans and greens. Or try the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup if you’re craving something classic and cheesy.

For seafood lovers, the Louisiana Seafood Gumbo brings bold Southern flavors with a satisfying depth. And if you’re into slow-simmered comfort, the Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup might be just the thing.

Or keep it cozy with the Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup — another crowd-pleaser when you want something familiar and warming.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use fresh or frozen corn? Did you go spicy or keep it mellow? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

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