Seafood Chowder is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. Rich, creamy, and loaded with tender shrimp, fish, clams, and vegetables, this hearty soup delivers the flavors of the sea in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or special occasions, this chowder combines a velvety broth with fresh seafood and potatoes to create a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Serve it with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy texture
  • Packed with a variety of seafood
  • Easy one-pot meal
  • Perfect for entertaining
  • Comforting and filling
  • Ready in about an hour

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Chowder

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups seafood stock
  • 1 cup clam juice
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Seafood

  • 250 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 250 g white fish fillets, cut into chunks
  • 200 g scallops
  • 200 g clams or chopped canned clams
  • 150 g calamari rings

Dairy

  • 1½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Chives, sliced
  • Oyster crackers or crusty bread

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.

Add onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Create the Base

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2 minutes to create a roux.

Gradually whisk in seafood stock and clam juice until smooth.

Step 3: Simmer the Potatoes

Add potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add the Dairy

Pour in the milk and cream.

Stir gently and heat until the chowder is hot but not boiling.

Step 5: Cook the Seafood

Add fish chunks and scallops. Simmer for 3 minutes.

Add shrimp, clams, and calamari.

Cook for another 4–5 minutes until the seafood is cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and chives.

Serve immediately with warm crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Chef's Tips

  • Use fresh seafood whenever possible for the best flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking seafood, as it can become rubbery.
  • For extra richness, add a small amount of cream cheese.
  • If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the cooked potatoes into the broth.
  • A splash of dry white wine can add depth to the flavor.

Variations

New England Seafood Chowder

Add crispy bacon and increase the cream for a richer, traditional style.

Mediterranean Seafood Chowder

Include fennel, olive oil, oregano, and a touch of lemon zest.

Spicy Seafood Chowder

Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños.

Corn and Seafood Chowder

Stir in 1 cup of sweet corn kernels for added sweetness and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Seafood Chowder with:

  • Crusty sourdough bread
  • Garlic toast
  • Caesar salad
  • Mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Herb biscuits

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from separating and the seafood from overcooking.

Nutritional Benefits

Seafood Chowder provides:

  • High-quality protein
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Essential minerals such as zinc and selenium
  • Vitamins from vegetables
  • A balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats

Final Thoughts

Seafood Chowder is a timeless coastal favorite that combines creamy comfort with the fresh flavors of the ocean. Loaded with tender seafood, hearty potatoes, and a rich broth, this satisfying soup is perfect for everything from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. One bowl is enough to transport you straight to a seaside kitchen filled with warmth and flavor.