If you love rich, comforting seafood recipes, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Chowder is the ultimate indulgence. Loaded with tender shrimp, silky cream broth, aromatic garlic, and finished with fresh herbs, this dish delivers gourmet flavor with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for those searching for easy dinner recipes, high-protein meals, comfort food ideas, quick seafood soup, and budget-friendly family dinners.
This chowder has a velvety texture similar to a lobster bisque but is much easier to prepare at home. Served with crusty artisan bread for dipping, it’s the kind of dish that feels like fine dining but works beautifully for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups seafood stock (or chicken broth)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup whole milk
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½ teaspoon paprika
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
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Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Build the Base
Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to form a light roux. This helps thicken the chowder.
3. Add Liquids
Slowly pour in seafood stock while whisking to avoid lumps. Add milk and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Season the Soup
Add paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the simmering soup. Cook for 3–5 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
6. Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chives. Serve hot with toasted crusty bread.
Why This Recipe Is Popular
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High in lean protein from shrimp
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Perfect for healthy seafood dinner ideas
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Creamy texture without being overly heavy
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Ideal for meal prep lunches and cozy winter dinners
Shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and antioxidants. Combined with garlic’s immune-boosting properties, this chowder is both nourishing and satisfying.
Pro Cooking Tips
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Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen works if thawed properly.
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Add diced potatoes or corn for a heartier chowder variation.
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Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
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For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
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A splash of white wine enhances depth and richness.
Storage & Reheating
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently over low heat to prevent curdling.
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Avoid freezing as cream-based soups can separate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. How can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut milk instead of cream and milk for a dairy-free seafood chowder.
3. What pairs well with shrimp chowder?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light pasta dish.
4. Can I make this keto-friendly?
Yes! Skip the flour and use cream cheese to thicken instead.
5. Is this recipe good for weight loss?
It can be when portion-controlled and made with lighter dairy options.
