Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder – A Creamy, Coastal Comfort in a Bowl

Warm, satisfying, and surprisingly light, this Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder brings coastal flavor to your kitchen in a nourishing, guilt-free way. Brimming with tender shrimp, sweet corn, and a creamy broth, this dish is comfort food made fresh. With simple ingredients and a balanced profile, it’s the perfect soup for any season—whether you’re craving something cozy or looking to lighten up your meal routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lighter Comfort Food – Creamy and rich-tasting without heavy cream.
High Protein, Lower Fat – Lean shrimp adds flavor and nutrition.
Easy Weeknight Meal – Comes together in under 40 minutes.
Naturally Sweet & Savory – Corn gives the perfect hint of sweetness to balance the savory broth.

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 ½ cups frozen sweet corn
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup skim milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
• 1 tbsp light butter or olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium russet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Chopped parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt light butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until soft and fragrant.

2. Add Broth and Potatoes
Stir in diced potato and smoked paprika. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until potatoes are just tender.

3. Add Corn and Milk
Stir in sweet corn and milk. If using cornstarch for a thicker chowder, whisk it with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir into the pot. Simmer another 5–7 minutes.

4. Add Shrimp
Add shrimp to the chowder and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 190
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Add them last and cook just until pink to keep them juicy.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk for a creamy finish without dairy.
• Add Veggies: Diced red bell pepper, zucchini, or spinach can add color and nutrients.
• Blended Option: For a thicker chowder, puree half the soup before adding shrimp.

Why This Recipe Works

This chowder delivers all the creamy, comforting appeal of a traditional seafood soup—without the heaviness. Lean shrimp brings protein, the corn adds sweetness, and a milk-based broth keeps everything light yet luscious. It’s a satisfying, feel-good meal you’ll make again and again.

Sweet Corn and Shrimp Chowder is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. This lightened-up version serves up warm flavors, coastal freshness, and wholesome ingredients in one bowl. Quick to make, easy to love, and perfect for busy nights or slow Sundays, this chowder is a cozy, nutritious favorite you’ll turn to often.