Description
This hearty Cajun Shrimp and Vegetable Chowder combines succulent seasoned shrimp with tender vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for a comforting meal, it blends Cajun spices, fresh vegetables, and a creamy base to create a warming and satisfying dish ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (for shrimp)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Vegetables & Base
- 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)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk (or more if you prefer a thinner chowder)
- 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
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, and 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the Chowder: Let the chowder cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add Cream and Milk: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup 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 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
- Combine Shrimp with Chowder: Add the cooked shrimp to the chowder and stir to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Garnish the chowder with fresh parsley or green onions and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty Cajun Shrimp and Vegetable Chowder!
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the cayenne pepper amount or omitting it.
- For a lighter chowder, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use all milk.
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw completely before seasoning and cooking.
- This chowder can be made gluten-free by ensuring the broth and Cajun seasoning contain no gluten ingredients.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2-3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
