Cozy nights are the perfect excuse to warm up with a delicious, comforting bowl of creamy chowder. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and traditional or adventurous and innovative, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 creamy chowder recipes. From hearty, meat-based options like Smoky Bacon and Cheddar Chowder to lighter, vegetarian takes like Vegan Coconut Corn Chowder, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy chowders, exploring flavors and ingredients from around the globe. We’ll start with some timeless favorites, like New England Clam Chowder and Manhattan Clam Chowder, before moving on to more modern twists, such as Loaded Baked Potato Chowder and Spicy Southwest Chicken Chowder. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a meat-and-potatoes kind of person, we have a chowder recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
New England Clam Chowder
A classic recipe from the Northeast coast of the United States, this creamy chowder is a staple of New England cuisine. This hearty soup is perfect for a cold winter’s day or any time you need a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, heavy cream, and whole milk. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Potato Chowder
Warm up with this comforting chowder that combines the sweetness of corn and potatoes with a hint of smokiness from bacon. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the grease behind. Add butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Cheddar Chowder
This hearty soup combines the smokiness of bacon with the creaminess of cheddar, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying bowl that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add butter to the pot and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine.
5. Gradually add broth and milk, whisking continuously.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Chowder with Shrimp and Scallops
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of succulent shrimp and scallops, simmered in a rich and flavorful broth. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound scallops
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add shrimp and scallops; cook until pink and tender.
4. Sprinkle flour over the seafood mixture; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in clam juice and milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat; let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Chowder
Get cozy with this creamy, comforting chowder that combines the flavors of a loaded baked potato with the warmth of a hearty soup. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked baked potato, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Chopped scallions and sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add broth and milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Add diced baked potato and shredded cheese; cook until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with chopped scallions and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Southwest Chicken Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine with the comfort of a warm, creamy soup. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Coconut Corn Chowder
A creamy, comforting soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This Vegan Coconut Corn Chowder is a flavorful twist on traditional corn chowders, featuring coconut milk and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Chowder
Warm up with this comforting Broccoli and Cheese Chowder recipe! This creamy soup is a perfect blend of tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and rich potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced potatoes (about 2-3 small to medium-sized potatoes)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli, broth, potatoes, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Manhattan Clam Chowder
Classic Manhattan clam chowder is a creamy and savory soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fish stock (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in fish stock and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in heavy cream and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Chowder
This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a deliciously comforting soup perfect for chilly fall days. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until pumpkin is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh sage if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Chowder
Wild Mushroom and Thyme Chowder Recipe
This hearty chowder recipe celebrates the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and thyme, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a rustic gathering with friends. With its rich and savory broth, this dish is sure to warm your senses.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, oyster, and cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms, garlic, thyme, and flour. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Gradually add the broth and cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Bisque-Style Chowder
Elevate your soup game with this rich and creamy Lobster Bisque-Style Chowder, featuring chunks of succulent lobster meat in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body), diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clam juice, lobster meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chorizo Chowder
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful chowder that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the spicy kick of chorizo. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a cold-weather brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower Chowder
Roasted Cauliflower Chowder Recipe
Warm up with this creamy and comforting Roasted Cauliflower Chowder recipe, perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy twist on traditional chowders. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower with savory potatoes and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup of milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until softened.
3. Add potatoes, broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in roasted cauliflower and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Salmon and Dill Chowder
A refreshing twist on traditional chowders, this recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with the brightness of fresh dill. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add salmon fillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Pour in fish stock and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Ham and Potato Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of creamy cheese, savory ham, and tender potatoes. It’s an ideal comfort food for chilly evenings or busy days when you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add ham, potatoes, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low; let chowder cook for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Lentil Chowder
This hearty and aromatic chowder is a perfect blend of Indian spices and comforting lentils, ideal for a cozy evening meal or a nutritious lunch. With its creamy texture and depth of flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Vegetable Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Herbed Vegetable Chowder combines the freshness of herbs with the comfort of tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, potatoes, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Stir in thyme, parsley, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are very tender, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-35 minutes.
Turkey and Wild Rice Chowder
This comforting chowder is perfect for a chilly day or as a satisfying meal any time of the year. Packed with tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and flavorful vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked turkey, wild rice blend, chicken broth, and milk or cream.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening, this spicy sausage and kale chowder combines the savory goodness of sausage with the earthy sweetness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and add kale, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until kale is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 creamy chowder recipes, perfect for a chilly night in. From classic New England Clam Chowder to Spicy Southwest Chicken Chowder, and even vegan options like Coconut Corn Chowder, there’s something for everyone. Hearty combinations like Loaded Baked Potato Chowder and Cheesy Ham and Potato Chowder will satisfy your comfort food cravings. And don’t forget the seafood lovers – Seafood Chowder with Shrimp and Scallops is a must-try. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, these creamy chowders are sure to hit the spot.
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