Some days just beg for a big pot of chowder. The kind that simmers away, smells amazing, and makes you feel like you made a very responsible life choice by staying in. This Cozy Seafood Chowder is creamy, hearty, and packed with tender seafood, sweet corn, and soft potatoes — basically comfort food doing its thing.
It’s relaxed, nostalgic, and exactly what you want when the weather’s being dramatic.
Why This Recipe Is Awesome
- Creamy, hearty, and deeply comforting
- Loaded with seafood without feeling heavy
- One-pot friendly (because dishes are rude)
- Flexible — use whatever seafood you like
- Great for family dinners or quiet cozy nights
- Tastes even better the next day, FYI
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Butter or olive oil
- Onion, diced
- Celery, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Seafood mix (shrimp, fish, scallops — your call)
- Vegetable or seafood broth
- Bay leaf
- Old Bay seasoning or paprika
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt & black pepper
- Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Build the base
Melt butter in a large pot. Add onion and celery and cook until soft. Add garlic and stir until fragrant. - Add potatoes and broth
Stir in potatoes, bay leaf, seasoning, and broth. Simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender. - Add corn
Stir in corn and let it warm through. The sweetness balances the savory base nicely. - Blend slightly (optional)
Mash or blend a small portion of the soup to thicken it naturally. - Add seafood
Gently add seafood and simmer just until cooked through. Don’t rush or overcook — seafood is sensitive. - Finish with cream
Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper, and warm gently. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking seafood — rubbery chowder is not the goal.
- Boiling after adding cream — keep it gentle.
- Cutting potatoes too large — they take forever to cook.
- Forgetting to season — chowder loves seasoning.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Use coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Swap potatoes for cauliflower for a lighter version.
- Add bacon or smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Use canned clams or crab if fresh seafood isn’t handy.
- Stir in leeks instead of onions for a softer flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes — thaw completely and pat dry before adding.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it before adding cream.
Can I make it thicker?
Mash more potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.
What seafood works best?
Shrimp, white fish, scallops, and clams all work beautifully.
Is this very rich?
It’s creamy but balanced — not heavy or overwhelming.
What should I serve with it?
Crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a simple green salad.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy Seafood Chowder with Potatoes & Corn is everything comfort food should be: warm, filling, and deeply satisfying without being complicated. It’s perfect for slow evenings, family dinners, or anytime you want something that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Grab a spoon, settle in, and enjoy the cozy vibes.