Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

The aroma of sizzling bacon and sautéed shrimp mingled with sweet corn and creamy potatoes makes this chowder an irresistible choice for comfort food lovers. This dish embodies the richness and heartiness of a classic chowder while showcasing the fresh, savory flavors of seafood and vegetables.

Perfect for a chilly evening or any time you crave a warming bowl of goodness, this Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering, it’s a recipe that brings people together with its comforting charm.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the shrimp to the pot with the bacon grease and cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Melt the butter in the pot and add the onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring well to coat, and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream and diced potatoes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
6. Stir in the corn, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
7. Return the bacon and shrimp to the pot, stirring gently to combine and warm through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

What Makes Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder Special?

This chowder combines the salty richness of bacon, the delicate sweetness of shrimp, and the natural sugariness of corn for a balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. The creamy base ties all the ingredients together, creating a dish that’s hearty enough to be a main course but light enough for any season.

The addition of smoked paprika enhances the depth of flavor, while the fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and brightness. Each spoonful delivers a comforting blend of textures, from the soft potatoes to the tender shrimp and crispy bacon bits.

Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and shrimp elevate the dish with their natural flavors. If fresh isn’t available, frozen or canned corn and shrimp will work too—just ensure they’re properly thawed.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked. Add them towards the end to ensure they remain tender and juicy.
3. Customize to Taste: Love heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. Prefer a smokier flavor? Double up on smoked paprika or use smoked bacon.

Perfect Pairings for This Chowder

Serve Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder with warm, crusty bread or flaky biscuits to soak up the creamy broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, and a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s savory and sweet notes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While the chowder can be frozen, the creamy base might separate upon thawing. If freezing, consider leaving out the cream and adding it when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from curdling. Add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the consistency.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder is a versatile recipe that works well for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings. Its ingredients are easy to find year-round, and the flavors are universally loved, making it a reliable option to please a crowd. Plus, it’s easily scalable—double or halve the recipe depending on your needs.

Origins and Inspiration for the Dish

Chowders have a long history rooted in coastal cuisine, often made with locally sourced seafood, potatoes, and cream. Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder takes inspiration from traditional New England clam chowder but adds a Southern twist with sweet corn and shrimp, two staples in Southern cooking. The bacon provides a smoky, salty base that enhances the overall flavor, making this dish a celebration of both land and sea.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Insights

While indulgent, this chowder offers several nutritional benefits:

• Shrimp: A lean protein source, shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.
• Corn: Packed with dietary fiber and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, corn contributes to eye and gut health.
• Potatoes: A great source of potassium and vitamin C, they add heartiness to the dish.
• Bacon (in moderation): Adds flavor and a small amount of protein, though you can adjust the amount or use turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Ways to Customize Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

1. Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and shrimp, and add hearty vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth for the base.
2. Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
3. Seafood Variations: Substitute shrimp with crab, scallops, or a mix of seafood for a luxurious upgrade.
4. Lighten It Up: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter consistency while maintaining creaminess.

Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser

This chowder is a symphony of flavors and textures:

• The crispy bacon provides a savory crunch.
• The shrimp adds a tender, slightly sweet bite.
• The corn contributes bursts of natural sweetness.
• The creamy broth ties everything together in a silky, luscious blend.

It’s versatile enough to serve as a comforting weeknight dinner, a starter for a festive meal, or the star dish at a family gathering.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

• With Bread: Serve with sourdough bread, cornbread, or garlic knots for a filling meal.
• With Salad: Pair with a simple arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• With Drinks: A crisp Chardonnay or a light pilsner complements the chowder’s creamy and savory flavors.

Fun Facts About Chowder

1. The term “chowder” comes from the French word “chaudière,” referring to a pot used by fishermen.
2. Corn chowder was popularized in the 19th century as a way to use fresh summer corn.
3. Bacon has been a classic addition to chowders since colonial times, valued for its ability to add depth to the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder is a heartwarming dish that perfectly balances rich, creamy textures with the bold, savory flavors of bacon and the delicate sweetness of shrimp and corn. Its versatility allows for endless customizations, making it a reliable go-to recipe for cozy weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or simply when you crave a comforting bowl of goodness.

Whether you pair it with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or enjoy it on its own, this chowder is sure to leave your family and guests coming back for seconds. It’s a dish that brings people together, celebrating the warmth and comfort of homemade food. Give this recipe a try, and it just might become one of your most-loved kitchen staples!