Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

Introduction

Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food with a savory, indulgent twist that’s guaranteed to become a favorite. Picture this: smoky, crispy beef bacon mingling with tender, juicy shrimp and the natural sweetness of corn, all brought together in a velvety, creamy broth. This chowder isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and flavor from the first spoonful.

I remember making this chowder for the first time on a chilly autumn evening, and it was like a hug in a bowl. The combination of beef bacon and shrimp felt indulgent yet comforting, and the sweet pops of corn added a delightful contrast to the rich, smoky flavors. It quickly became a family favorite, requested again and again, especially during the cooler months.

What I love most about Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder is its versatility. It’s hearty enough to stand alone as a cozy dinner but also impressive enough to serve as a starter for a special gathering. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to savor every bite. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread on the side or simply enjoying it as is, this chowder is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Get ready to fall in love with every delicious spoonful!

Perfect for:

• Cozy fall or winter dinners
• Family gatherings
• Entertaining guests with a unique soup course
• Celebrating seafood lovers
• Comfort food enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

Here’s why Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Smoky and Savory: The beef bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that perfectly complements the sweet corn and tender shrimp.
• Rich and Creamy: This chowder is delightfully creamy without being overly heavy, striking the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort.
• Easy One-Pot Recipe: Everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze and preparation straightforward.
• Customizable: The recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Elegant Yet Comforting: The combination of shrimp and beef bacon gives it a gourmet feel while keeping it grounded as a hearty, warming dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder:

• 6 slices beef bacon, chopped
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups chicken or seafood stock
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Beef Bacon: This adds a smoky, meaty flavor that enhances the chowder while keeping it halal-friendly or pork-free.
• Shrimp: Tender, juicy shrimp provide a burst of seafood goodness in every spoonful.
• Corn Kernels: Sweet and juicy, the corn balances the smoky and savory flavors with a hint of natural sweetness.
• Potatoes: Diced potatoes add body and heartiness to the chowder, making it a satisfying meal.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice adds warmth and depth to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder:

Cook the Beef Bacon:

1. Render the Fat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Sauté Aromatics and Shrimp:

2. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until just pink. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Melt the butter in the pot. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Build the Base:

4. Add Potatoes and Stock: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add Corn and Cream: Stir in the corn kernels and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Season and Finish:

6. Season the Chowder: Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
7. Return Shrimp and Bacon: Stir in the cooked shrimp and crispy beef bacon. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve:

8. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.

How to Serve Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

Here are some ideas for serving Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder:

1. With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
2. Topped with Crumbled Crackers: Sprinkle crushed saltines or oyster crackers on top for added texture.
3. Paired with a Side Salad: Balance the richness with a light, tangy side salad.
4. In Bread Bowls: Hollow out small bread loaves and serve the chowder inside for an edible serving vessel.
5. Garnished with Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra indulgence.

Additional Tips for Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

Here are some tips to ensure your chowder turns out perfect:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so remove them from the pot as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
• Choose Waxy Potatoes: Varieties like Yukon Gold hold their shape better in chowder than starchy potatoes like Russets.
• Use Fresh Corn When Possible: If it’s in season, fresh corn adds extra sweetness and flavor.
• Thicken as Needed: If the chowder is too thin, mash some of the cooked potatoes or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: The saltiness of the bacon can vary, so wait until the end to adjust the seasoning.

Recipe Variations for Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

Here are 10 ways to customize Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder:

1. Spicy Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning for a Southern-inspired twist.
2. Cream-Free Light Version: Use milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
3. Add Bell Peppers: Dice and sauté colorful bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
4. Swap the Shrimp: Use crab meat or diced fish for a different seafood element.
5. Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and shrimp, and use vegetable stock for a plant-based chowder.
6. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack for an extra cheesy chowder.
7. Smoky Chipotle: Add diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
8. Include Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor.
9. Top with Avocado: Garnish with diced avocado for a creamy, fresh topping.
10. Loaded Chowder: Add crumbled turkey bacon, shredded cheese, and sour cream for a loaded baked potato-style twist.

Freezing and Storage for Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

• Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Special Equipment for Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

Here are some tools to make preparing Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder easier:

1. Large Dutch Oven: Ideal for cooking the chowder evenly and holding all the ingredients.
2. Slotted Spoon: Helps remove the cooked bacon and shrimp from the pot.
3. Immersion Blender: Optional, for blending some of the chowder to thicken it.
4. Sharp Knife: For chopping bacon, potatoes, and other ingredients.
5. Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping ingredients.

FAQ Section for Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking.
2. Can I make this chowder ahead? Yes, prepare the base ahead and add the shrimp and bacon just before serving.
3. Is it possible to make this dairy-free? Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
4. What can I use instead of beef bacon? Turkey bacon or smoked beef sausages are great substitutes.

Print

Conclusion

Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder is a rich and satisfying dish that celebrates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The smoky, savory notes of beef bacon complement the sweetness of corn and the tender bite of shrimp, all brought together in a creamy, comforting base. This chowder is not only hearty but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for cozy family meals or casual gatherings with friends.

This recipe is straightforward to prepare, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without much fuss. Customize it with additional spices, fresh herbs, or even a touch of heat for a personal twist. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad to complete the meal, and you’ll have a dish that warms both the body and soul.

I’d love to see how your Beef Bacon Shrimp Corn Chowder turns out! Share your creations by tagging me on Instagram or leaving a comment with your own unique spin on the recipe. Let’s spread the joy of delicious home cooking together!