Chowders

Shrimp And Potato Chowder

Name: Shrimp And Potato Chowder
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced; 6 slices of bacon, diced; 1 large onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup (250ml) of chicken broth; 1/2 cup (120ml) of heavy cream; 1 tsp (5g) of dried thyme; 2 tbsp (30g) of unsalted butter; 1/4 cup (15g) of chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

By Noelle Ashford · June 19, 2026 · Chowders

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total45 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made Shrimp And Potato Chowder for my family. It was a chilly winter evening, and the aroma of simmering potatoes and shrimp filled our home, making everyone's stomach growl with anticipation. As we sat down to enjoy our steaming bowls, the silence was broken only by the sound of happy slurping and contented sighs. That's when I knew I had created something special.

As a coastal home cook, I've always been drawn to the simplicity and elegance of seafood. Shrimp, in particular, is a favorite of mine - it's versatile, flavorful, and incredibly easy to cook. When paired with tender potatoes and a hint of smoky bacon, it creates a match made in heaven. In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making a delicious Shrimp And Potato Chowder that's sure to become a staple in your household.

What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the shrimp and potatoes is offset by the savory goodness of the bacon and onions, while the creamy broth brings everything together. It's a dish that's both comforting and refined, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

This recipe is designed for anyone who loves seafood and is looking for a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find that the steps are easy to follow, and the ingredients are readily available. So, let's get started and make a delicious Shrimp And Potato Chowder that will leave you and your loved ones wanting more!

One of the best things about this recipe is that it's incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main course, or as a side dish for a larger gathering. It's also a great make-ahead option, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later use. So, go ahead and give it a try - I promise you won't be disappointed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
It's a great way to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank
The dish is both comforting and refined, making it perfect for any occasion
It's a versatile recipe that can be served as a main course or side dish
It's a great make-ahead option that can be refrigerated or frozen for later use
The recipe is easy to follow and produces amazing results, even for beginners
It's a healthy and nutritious option that's low in calories and rich in flavor

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Shrimp And Potato Chowder is in the balance of flavors and textures. By using a combination of sweet and savory ingredients, we create a dish that's both comforting and refined. The smoky goodness of the bacon adds a depth of flavor that complements the shrimp and potatoes perfectly, while the creamy broth brings everything together.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By sautéing the onions and bacon in a little bit of oil, we create a flavorful base that adds richness to the dish. Then, by adding the potatoes and cooking them until they're tender, we create a satisfying texture that's both filling and delicious.

Finally, the addition of the shrimp and creamy broth brings the dish to life. By cooking the shrimp until they're pink and tender, we ensure that they're both flavorful and safe to eat. And by stirring in a little bit of heavy cream, we create a creamy broth that's both rich and indulgent.

Overall, this recipe works because it's a perfect balance of flavors and textures. By using a combination of sweet and savory ingredients, and by employing a range of cooking techniques, we create a dish that's both comforting and refined. So, whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll find that this recipe is easy to follow and produces amazing results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a delicious Shrimp And Potato Chowder, the ingredients are just as important as the cooking technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of sweet and savory ingredients to create a dish that's both comforting and refined. From the smoky goodness of the bacon to the sweetness of the shrimp and potatoes, every ingredient plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

So, what are the key ingredients in this recipe? We'll be using 1 lb (450g) of large shrimp, peeled and deveined, 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced, 6 slices of bacon, diced, 1 large onion, diced, 2 cloves of garlic, minced, 1 cup (250ml) of chicken broth, 1/2 cup (120ml) of heavy cream, 1 tsp (5g) of dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. We'll also be using 2 tbsp (30g) of unsalted butter and 1/4 cup (15g) of chopped fresh parsley for garnish.

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveinedLook for fresh, sustainable shrimp that are free of added preservatives or chemicals. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with paper towels before using.
2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and dicedChoose high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho for the best results. Make sure to peel and dice them evenly so they cook consistently.
6 slices of bacon, dicedThick-cut bacon works best for this recipe, as it provides a smoky flavor and a satisfying texture. Look for bacon that is low in sodium and added preservatives.
1 large onion, dicedChoose a sweet onion like Vidalia or Maui for the best flavor. Make sure to dice it evenly so it cooks consistently and adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
2 cloves of garlic, mincedFresh garlic is essential for this recipe, as it adds a pungent flavor and aroma. Make sure to mince it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish.
1 cup (250ml) of chicken brothLow-sodium chicken broth works best for this recipe, as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish. Look for broth that is low in added preservatives and chemicals.
1/2 cup (120ml) of heavy creamHeavy cream adds a rich and indulgent texture to the dish. Look for cream that is low in added preservatives and chemicals, and make sure to stir it in gently to avoid curdling.
1 tsp (5g) of dried thymeDried thyme is a versatile herb that pairs well with seafood and potatoes. Make sure to use high-quality thyme that is fresh and aromatic.
2 tbsp (30g) of unsalted butterUnsalted butter is essential for this recipe, as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the dish. Look for butter that is low in added preservatives and chemicals, and make sure to use it to sauté the onions and bacon.
1/4 cup (15g) of chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright and fresh flavor to the dish. Make sure to chop it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish, and use it as a garnish for added color and texture.
Salt and pepper to tasteSalt and pepper are essential seasonings for this recipe, as they enhance the flavor of the ingredients and add depth to the dish. Make sure to use high-quality salt and pepper that are fresh and aromatic.

Ingredients for Shrimp And Potato Chowder

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Shrimp And Potato Chowder

1
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes, making sure they are evenly sized so they cook consistently. Set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from turning brown.
2
Next, dice the bacon and cook it in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it's crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, stirring occasionally. This should take about 8-10 minutes, and it's essential to cook the onion slowly to bring out its natural sweetness.
4
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Make sure to cook the garlic until it's fragrant and slightly softened, as this will add depth to the dish.
5
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they're tender and lightly browned. Make sure to stir the potatoes occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6
Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and the liquid has reduced slightly.
7
Add the cooked bacon back into the pot, along with the heavy cream and dried thyme. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cream has heated through and the flavors have melded together.
8
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot and cook until they're pink and tender, stirring occasionally. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and it's essential to cook the shrimp until they reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
9
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp, making sure they are cooked through and safe to eat.
10
Season the chowder with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
11
Let the chowder rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to settle. This will help the chowder to thicken slightly and the flavors to become more intense.
12
Serve the chowder in bowls, making sure to scoop up all the delicious ingredients and broth. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture and flavor.

Expert Tips

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh seafood and produce, to ensure the best flavor and texture in the dish.
Don't overcook the potatoes or the shrimp, as this can make them tough and unappetizing. Cook them until they're just tender, then remove them from the heat.
Use a variety of spices and seasonings to add depth and complexity to the dish. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of paprika to give the chowder a boost of flavor.
Let the chowder rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to settle. This will help the chowder to thicken slightly and the flavors to become more intense.
Consider serving the chowder with a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture and flavor. You can also serve it with a green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Make sure to stir the chowder occasionally as it cooks, to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the dish your own. Consider adding some diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs to give the chowder a unique flavor and texture.
Make sure to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp, ensuring that they are cooked through and safe to eat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the potatoes or the shrimp, which can make them tough and unappetizing.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can result in a bland and unappetizing dish.
Not stirring the chowder occasionally as it cooks, which can cause the ingredients to stick to the bottom of the pot and the flavors to become unevenly distributed.
Not letting the chowder rest for a few minutes before serving, which can result in a dish that is too thin and unappetizing.
Not using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp, which can result in undercooked or overcooked seafood.
Not seasoning the chowder with salt and pepper to taste, which can result in a dish that is bland and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Consider adding some diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs to give the chowder a unique flavor and texture.
Use different types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels, to create a varied and interesting dish.
Add some diced ham or bacon to the chowder for added smokiness and flavor.
Use a variety of spices and seasonings, such as cayenne pepper or paprika, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Serve the chowder with a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture and flavor.
Consider adding some diced carrots or celery to the chowder for added flavor and nutrition.
Use a combination of chicken and seafood broth for added depth and complexity of flavor.

What to Serve With Shrimp And Potato Chowder

Serve the Shrimp And Potato Chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture and flavor. Consider pairing it with a green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.

The chowder is also delicious served with a side of grilled cheese or a crusty baguette. You can also serve it as a main course, accompanied by a side of rice or roasted vegetables. Whatever you choose, I'm sure you'll find that the Shrimp And Potato Chowder is a dish that's both comforting and refined, perfect for any occasion.

Crusty breadOyster crackersGreen saladSteamed vegetablesGrilled cheeseRoasted vegetables

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Shrimp And Potato Chowder can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, let the chowder cool to room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. To freeze, let the chowder cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze.

To reheat the chowder, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and steaming. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the chowder to become too thin and unappetizing.

It's also important to note that the chowder will thicken slightly as it cools, so you may need to add a little bit of water or broth to thin it out when you reheat it. This is completely normal, and it's easy to adjust the consistency of the chowder to your liking.

Overall, the Shrimp And Potato Chowder is a versatile and convenient dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed. It's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, and it's sure to become a favorite in your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of potatoes should I use for the chowder?

High-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho work best for this recipe, as they hold their shape and add a nice texture to the dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them first and pat them dry with paper towels before using. Frozen shrimp can be just as flavorful and tender as fresh shrimp, but they may have a slightly softer texture.

How long can I store the chowder in the refrigerator or freezer?

The chowder can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing, and to reheat it safely when you're ready to eat it.

Can I make the chowder ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make the chowder ahead of time and reheat it later. Simply let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it until you're ready to eat it. Reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and steaming.

What type of cream should I use for the chowder?

Heavy cream works best for this recipe, as it adds a rich and indulgent texture to the dish. You can also use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter if you prefer a lighter version.

Can I add other ingredients to the chowder to make it more interesting?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the chowder to make it more interesting. Consider adding some diced bell peppers or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs to give the chowder a unique flavor and texture.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

The shrimp are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp, or you can check for doneness by looking for a pink color and a firm texture.

Can I serve the chowder with other dishes or sides?

Yes, you can serve the chowder with other dishes or sides. Consider pairing it with a green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture and flavor.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card