Description
This creamy Cajun Shrimp and Vegetable Chowder is a rich, hearty soup packed with shrimp, vegetables, and a flavorful kick from Cajun spices. The creamy broth, seasoned with smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper, creates a perfect balance with the tender shrimp and veggies. Ideal for cozy dinners!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
For the Vegetables:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk (or more if you prefer a thinner chowder)
For the Spices & Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
-
Prep the Shrimp:
- Season the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and set aside.
-
Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
-
Add Potatoes & Broth:
- Add the diced potatoes, corn, and chicken or vegetable broth to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
-
Make It Creamy:
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Bring the chowder back to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Cook the Shrimp:
- In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Once cooked, add the shrimp to the chowder and stir to combine.
-
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjusting Thickness: For a thinner chowder, you can add extra milk or broth. For a thicker chowder, use less milk or cream, or let it cook longer to reduce the liquid.
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper if you like your chowder spicier!
- Storage: This chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors often improve after a day or two!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g2
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 170mg