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As summer rolls in and the heat makes cooking feel like a chore, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that bring comfort without the fuss. Enter my Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp—a delightful bowl of warmth that bursts with flavor and nostalgia. The sweet notes of fresh corn dance happily with tender shrimp and crispy bacon, all nestled in a rich, creamy broth that feels like a hug on a rainy day.

I first made this chowder during a particularly cozy evening, when the clouds rolled in and the scent of thunderstorms lingered in the air. The magic of blending smoked paprika with the sweetness of corn transformed that simple pot of comfort into something truly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to share at a gathering, this chowder promises to impress, keeping everyone coming back for more! Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful.

Why is Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp a Must-Try?

Comforting and Cozy: This chowder wraps you in a warm embrace with its creamy texture and rich flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food for any day.

Fresh Ingredients: Featuring fresh corn and tender shrimp, it offers a delightful burst of summer flavor in every bite.

Quick and Easy: With a straightforward preparation process, you’ll have this delicious chowder ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings, and watch as friends and family flock back for seconds; it’s simply that good!

Versatile Options: Feel free to tweak the recipe by adding crab or lobster for a fancy twist, or experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles.

Ready to elevate your dining experience? Try adding a side of crusty bread to complete your meal and soak up every drop of this sensational chowder!

Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp Ingredients

For the Chowder

Bacon – Adds savory richness and crunch; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Shrimp – Provides a tender seafood element; ensure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and aroma; use shallots for a milder flavor, if desired.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; freshly minced garlic yields best results; avoid jarred for stronger taste.
Smoked Paprika – Supplies the signature smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used but will lack its distinct smokiness.
Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; adjust to taste, or omit for a milder chowder.
Fresh Corn – The key ingredient, contributing sweetness and texture; canned corn can be substituted but fresh is recommended for best flavor.
Chicken Stock – Provides the liquid base; vegetable stock can replace to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Half and Half (or Cream) – Adds creaminess and richness; use whole milk for a lighter version or swap for a dairy-free cream.
Coarse Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper – Enhances all flavors; always adjust to personal preference.

For Garnish

Basil Slivers – Optional garnish that adds freshness; substitute with chives or parsley for a different flair.

How to Make Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp

Cook Bacon: Heat a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon and drain it on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
Sear Shrimp: In the same pot, increase the temperature to medium-high. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, searing them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: Lower the heat back down, adding the chopped yellow onion to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then throw in minced garlic, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for another minute to release those aromatic flavors.
Add Corn and Liquid: Mix in the fresh corn and let it cook for 1 minute. Pour in the chicken stock and half & half, bringing it to a simmer. Let it gently simmer for 15 minutes to blend the flavors together.
Blend: Using an immersion blender, carefully puree part of the chowder until it’s creamy while keeping some corn kernels whole for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend in batches.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon back into the pot. Stir well, adjust your seasoning if needed, and serve hot, garnished with slivered basil if desired.

Optional: Top with croutons for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp?

Pair this luscious chowder with some delightful sides that heighten the comfort and flavor of your meal.

Crusty Bread: The perfect companion to soak up every velvety drop of chowder, enhancing your dining experience.
Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and vibrant veggies that complements the chowder’s richness and adds a crisp texture.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The melty goodness of a grilled cheese brings warm nostalgia, providing a satisfying contrast to the chowder’s creamy base.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and subtly sweet, these muffins echo the corn flavor while their crumbly texture perfectly balances the dish.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden and crunchy, these wedges add a delightful texture, making each bite feel indulgent.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and fruity side can brighten up the meal and cleanse the palate between bites of the rich chowder.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Chardonnay enhances the overall flavor of your meal.
Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, this frozen treat refreshes the taste buds and rounds off your comforting meal beautifully.

Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp Variations

Feel free to personalize this chowder to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist that elevates your chowder to gourmet status. Imagine the delicate sweetness of crab mingling with the creamy goodness—heavenly!
Potato Addition: Stir in diced potatoes for added heartiness and a thicker texture. As they cook, they soak up all the flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil to bring new layers of flavor. Even a hint of cilantro can transport your chowder to a whole new savory destination.
Spicy Kick: Intensify the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Feel that delicious warmth unfold with every spoonful, perfect for adventurous palates!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of half and half for a creamy dairy-free version. Not only does it provide a lovely richness, but it also introduces a subtle, unique flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables and nutrition. They’ll add both texture and vibrant color, making your chowder even more appealing.
Grainy Twist: Stir in cooked quinoa or barley for a fiber boost and to make the chowder even more filling. The grains soak up the broth, lending a hearty element that is sure to please.
Corn Varieties: Mix in roasted corn or even sweet corn from the grill for a slightly smoky flavor. The deeper taste will complement the chowder beautifully, adding that signature summer essence.

How to Store and Freeze Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze the chowder in airtight containers for up to 2 months. The cream may separate upon thawing, so blend well after reheating to restore creaminess.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the consistency if it thickens too much.
Serving After Storage: Garnish with fresh basil or chives after reheating to brighten the flavors of your Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp.

Expert Tips for Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp

Choose Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn for the best sweetness and texture. Canned corn can work in a pinch, but nothing beats the flavor of fresh kernels.
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they should only take about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them rubbery, which is a common mistake.
Balance the Seasoning: Always taste the chowder mid-way through cooking. Adjusting salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper as you go ensures a well-seasoned, flavorful result.
Blend with Care: For a creamy consistency, blend only part of the chowder. Keeping some corn kernels whole adds delightful texture, enhancing the overall experience.
Garnish for Wow Factor: A sprinkle of fresh basil slivers or chives not only adds color but also elevates the visual appeal of your Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp.

Make Ahead Options

These Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base of the chowder (without the shrimp and bacon) up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and blending the corn, vegetables, chicken stock, and half & half. Store the chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chowder on the stove and add the reserved shrimp and crispy bacon, cooking until the shrimp are heated through, usually about 5 minutes. This way, you’ll have a delightful, comforting meal ready in no time, just as delicious as when first made!

Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Fresh corn is highly recommended for the best sweetness and texture in your Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp. Look for ears that are firm and plump, with bright green husks. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can substitute with canned corn, though it may not have the same vibrant flavor and crunch.

How should I store leftover chowder?
You can store your chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Can I freeze Smoky Corn Chowder with Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder! Place it in airtight containers or freezer bags and store it for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the cream may separate upon thawing, so I recommend blending it well after reheating to restore its lovely creamy texture.

What if my shrimp are overcooked?
If you accidentally overcook the shrimp, don’t worry! To salvage the dish, you can blend the chowder a little more to create a smoother consistency, which can hide the texture of the shrimp. Also, make sure to keep an eye on them next time—it only takes about 2 minutes per side for perfectly tender shrimp!

Are there any dietary considerations for this chowder?
This chowder isn’t gluten-free, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free chicken stock. Be cautious if anyone has seafood allergies; you can substitute shrimp with chicken or even make a vegetarian version with just vegetables, corn, and maybe some beans for protein.

What can I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t panic! Just add a splash of chicken stock or water while reheating to loosen it up. Stir well until you reach your desired consistency, and it’ll taste just as delicious!